Diary May 2007

Duel at Deanza

The local junior college hosts an annual autocross as a fund raiser. It attracts all the big time racers and many different cars from all over the Bay Area. It is a spectator event, a place to be seen. I have entered it for over 25 years and generally placed first in my class. Unfortunately the Elise is outclassed by the Corvette and Porsche. However I have a secret weapon, my daughter! She has been the only Lady entrant in the Showroom Stock class and is now winning for me!

Here Elisa is giving me some last minute advice. I tried to go first so I could be her tire warmer but she preferred I go second. It was easier for her to peel off the L and her car number, zero.

When she saw this picture, she commented on the tilt of her head. I was more surprised at where she was looking than how she was looking. She was quick and even the announcer noticed.

I was trying to remember the famous F1 driver that always tilted his head, was if Jean Alisi? Here it appears she has entered this corner too fast and is wide of the apex. I am sure she will do better next time. The last time she drove the car was at the same event a year ago!

Here we examine her time and prepare to switch drivers. She gets a 56. something.

She is a little nervous so I help her with the helmet.

I get a high 51 and am proud that Elisa is less than five seconds or 10% behind me. It certainly will not be long before she is trouncing her dad! Notice where I am looking and compare to where she is looking below. We will work on that.

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