Laguna Seca to resolve important issue

A copy of recent correspondence with Laguna Seca regarding major delays during the ALMS race in October of '08 below. I must compliment them on addressing this problem and being so responsive.

Its vital that a track creates an environment that allows cars to quickly return to the race if they go off-track and remain drivable. Granted there are limitations but last year was particularly bad.

First my letter, then their response. Lastly, my reply:
________________________________________

As a regular attendee of races at Laguna Seca, I found the last ALMS race in October '08 to be particularly disappointing. The reason was due to the excessive number of caution flags AND the length of the the caution periods. I'm re-thinking attending certain events because of this.

I understand the runoff area must be MotoGP compliant for the motorcyclists. However, when this material is used for cars, it means disaster for the viewing public. When the cars become stuck in the sand when they should be able to drive out themselves, it makes for a poor race.

I will be curious to know what is planned for this coming season.

Also, why didn't Speed GT come to Laguna in '08? It's one of the better races to watch.
___________________________________________________

The Reply:

Rob – thank you so much for your e-mail.

Thank you for your feedback- trust me no one was more frustrated than we were - we realize that we need to do something to keep these guys on track - we have worked on a plan for this season that will accommodate and meet approval of both the FIA and FIM who both determine the safety elements of this track. It is a very expensive fix, but we anticipate having it in place for our May Festival of Speed event.

Even Tony Kanaan said, "They (gravel traps) are there just like in a street circuit there are walls so it is something you have to deal with. We are supposed to keep it on the track and not drive in the gravel."

We will do our best to fix it from our end - we need cooperation from the series also.

The Speed World Challenge has been scheduled again for 2009, we agree they are a fun series to watch and they now have new management that enabled us to bring them back.

Thanks again for your input and support Rob, we appreciate our fans and the ideas that you have.

Gill Campbell
CEO/General Manager
_____________________________________________
My response:

Hello Gill,

Thank you very much for your reply. I look forward to the new fix.

I agree with Tony Kanaan's statement, but gravel allows for more risk and going off track with some types of cars is going to happen, especially on a high speed circuit with some tight (narrow) areas and a field that varies in speed, braking distances and cornering speeds.

Can't wait for the new season. Thanks again!