63 replies to this topic

[Binx]

Hi! I won a contest here in my country for free tickets to the USGP this year!

I really need help, tips etc? On how to really make it special.

Also, how can I get some of the drivers autographs while im there?

Hope someone can enlighten me!

Thanks!

Race On!
Binx

[The Kanisteri]

Congratulations on winning.
Sorry but I can't help much, because I'm first timer too.
So yes, advices needed!

[indycarjunkie]

Congratulations Binx!

I live in Indy and would be happy to help out. When do you plan on getting here? Do you know where you're staying yet? I don't think I can help you out with the driver autographs though. Its been my impression ever since F1 came here that the drivers are very un-accessable. Fan-Driver interaction is nothing like it is for CART, IRL or NASCAR here in the states.

There may be an outside possibility that Juan Montoya & Ralf will make an appearance at a certain BMW dealer in Carmel (North side of Indy). I wouldn't rule that out. If I hear anything I'll be sure to post it.

[Binx]

Thanks Indycarjunkie and Kanisteri!

Indy! Are you going to the BMW car dealer then? Maybe I can hitch a ride with you or something? The radio station where I got the free trip from havent given me much details yet. As soon as I get word from them I'll tell you ok?

Thanks and see you!
Binx

[F1M]

A few tips - bring extra film, batteries, etc. - you can get them at the track, but they are massively overpriced. Also, bring rain gear, sunscreen, sealable plastic bags, AM/FM radios and headphone style ear protection. Get ear buds for the radios and you may be able to tune in/hear the radio broadcast of the race.

Also, be prepared to do a lot of walking, the track is very large. If you can enter from the North Side of Indy, you can walk along Hulman Blvd, which is the 'backstretch' of the track. If you are early enough for morning practice, be in the northeast section of the sponsor display area near Turn 11. You'll get some nice pictures and really hear the traction control working.

My tickets last year were in the SE Vista which wasn't bad. I may not go this year, instead I'm thinking of seeing the Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta. But there were tons of tickets being sold trackside last year and it will probably be the same this year.

Eric

[The Kanisteri]

Originally posted by F1M
AM/FM radios and headphone style ear protection. Get ear buds for the radios and you may be able to tune in/hear the radio broadcast of the race.

This is kind of stupid question, but is FM radio enough?
I have Peltor's hearing protectors with FM radio - no AM at all.

[aportinga]

Here's a good tip - plan on dinner at RAM Saturday night!

[F1Rulz]

The radio is on AM 1030. See http://www.atlasf1.c...highlight=radio

I took one to Montreal and could pull in a signal; though it seemed the sound system was a bit louder this year so I was able to hear most of what was going on over the engines. Indy has a similas setup w/ loudspeakers.

Let's see; what to bring... Some kind of cooler that you can put a sandwich/food and some liquid into. Track food sucks. I got one of those rolling airline style from Costco. Raingear. Sun tan lotion. Handiwipes. Seat cushion. Windproof lighter if you smoke.

[indycarjunkie]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Binx
[B] Thanks Indycarjunkie and Kanisteri!

Indy! Are you going to the BMW car dealer then? Maybe I can hitch a ride with you or something? The radio station where I got the free trip from havent given me much details yet. As soon as I get word from them I'll tell you ok?



I will go to the dealer if the drivers are there. As I said, its a long shot but I belive there may be a chance they will be there.

As far as what to bring to the track, I'll second what everyone said. IMS permits you to bring a small backpack or hand bag plus a cooler no larger than 14 inches which is the exact size of an Igloo Playmate. You may bring whatever you want into the track but absolutely no glass. They haven't checked for that too much in the past but have been very thorough in checking for that in the last 2 races I've been to there.

[Uncle Davy]

Originally posted by aportinga
Here's a good tip - plan on dinner at RAM Saturday night!

Okay, I'll bite; where and what is RAM?

[CONOSUR]

Originally posted by aportinga
Here's a good tip - plan on dinner at RAM Saturday night!

Yeah baby, yeah...







Binx, if you're coming from the Philippines, there's no need to bring extra stuff on a long flight. Just buy cheap disposable things (cooler, etc, stuff for while you're at the track) when you get here.

[aportinga]

Okay, I'll bite; where and what is RAM?

RAM is right downtown - near the square and art center. Great food, hot waitresses ;) and plenty of home brew!

[Binx]

I gather that there are items that I can get when I get in IMS... so there are coolers, drinks being sold at the track. Are there ear protectors for sale (or rent)?

What other Items can I just buy at IMS so that I dont have to lug around much stuff on the plane?

Are there also F1 apparel, team items or cool stuff thats being sold at the IMS?

Is smoking allowed while youre at your seat or there are designated smoking areas?


I really really appreciate everyones suggestions!

I'll be at RAMs for sure so that I can connect faces with the names!

cheers!
Binx

[aportinga]

Binx

We have these nylon coolers with a shoulder strap that can carry 30 beer cans!!! I would highy recommend buying one as you CAN bring it in the track and it will save you a ton of money and time!

As far as ear plugs are concerned you can get them there. Other merchandise however - especially Ferrari stuff goes by Saturday around the circuit. However if you go by the Indy Historical Museum there are many tents with tons of merchandise to grab up including Ferrari items

[F1M]

Hey,

If you want to see pics from last year's US GP go HERE

There are some from the Museum, the vendors, the historic cars, and the race. No closeups of the pits or racecars...

Eric

[Binx]

This may seem like a stupid question but.. were allowed to bring beer with us to drink while watching? Chips too?

Coz here in my country usually, that is not allowed.

Thanks again for the tips guys!

Are all the ones responding to the posts here going to the USGP this year?

Binx

[The Kanisteri]

Originally posted by Binx
were allowed to bring beer with us to drink while watching?

For this important question I'd like to have answer too!

[Wheels]

U can bring beer, soda & food, but it CANNOt be in bottles. It must be cans or plastic. Last year because of Sept. 11 they checked all backpacks & coolers so be prepared to wait a few minutes.

[aportinga]

This is 100% true

[The Kanisteri]

sweet!

[indycarjunkie]

Originally posted by Wheels
U can bring beer, soda & food, but it CANNOt be in bottles. It must be cans or plastic. Last year because of Sept. 11 they checked all backpacks & coolers so be prepared to wait a few minutes.

Yes this is true. You can bring in anything you want but absolutely no glass.

[The Kanisteri]

hmmm. Vodka in plastic bottle. Interesting...

[indycarjunkie]

Originally posted by The Kanisteri
hmmm. Vodka in plastic bottle. Interesting...

Vodka, whiskey, bourbon, schnapps, plastic bottle or stainless steel flask. You name it its been done. Bring whatever you like.

[Binx]

That is so great! So, beer and any food is okey.. I take it that smoking is allowed as well?

WHO AMONG YOU LOVELY PEOPLE WILL I BE SEEING AT THE USGP and AT RAM Saturday night?

Where is RAM by the way? Would like to know which part of town etc.

Still dont have word from the radio station where I got the tickets from where were staying..

Cheers!
Binx

[indycarjunkie]

RAM restaurant is just a couple blocks from Monument Circle downtown, almost smack between it and the capitol building. The street address is 140 S. Illinois St.

And yes, you may consider this my RSVP.

[catseye_55]

Hey indy, are non-drinkers allowed to go? This year I probably won't be taking the kids and will be able to hang out! Also is this invite for members of "other BB forums"? the reason I ask is that even though I didn't get to hang out with some other friends we got together at the "motorcycle park" on the south side of the track across from the museum and all the other folks went clubbing after qualifying. While my wife and I got to go out with the kids. To binx and kanisteri, make your hotel/motel arrangements NOW. Check out these places.

visitindiana.net

allhotels.com

Turn13.com

as soon as I can access some stuff on my 'puter I'll post some more links for lodging!
tuddles,
tony

[The Kanisteri]

Originally posted by catseye_55
To binx and kanisteri, make your hotel/motel arrangements NOW. Check out these places.

If I know correct, my hotel room is up already, but I have to ensure that from Aportinga...

[aportinga]

Kan Man you are solid

[The Kanisteri]

Thanks for info.

[The Kanisteri]

Aportinga:
Get few bottles of straight vodka ready, I'm gonna bring lot of these at there.

Mixing this with vodka = aaaaah!




Tyrkisk Peber, a hard candy with a sweet shell and a strong salty licorice filling, was launched in the Finnish market in 1977. The product is also sold in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands and in the travel trade.

[indycarjunkie]

Originally posted by catseye_55
Hey indy, are non-drinkers allowed to go?
tuddles,
tony

Hey tony, I don't see why not. I'm not a heavy drinker myself but this should be a fun gathering I think.

[aportinga]

Works for me!

I think this will be a total riot! I cannot wait

[snow]

I have the same question as catseye_55 does, can you take kids to Ram or is it strickly a bar? If it's just a bar, then I will wave as we walk by. The Kanisteri should wear a t-shirt with polar bears on it for easy identification so I can find you.

[indycarjunkie]

Although RAM does brew their own beer, it is also a restaurant. I'm affraid I've never been there myself. I'm getting this information second hand from a guy here at work who has. I think the kids ought to be OK there as long as the Atlas gathering isn't in the "bar" part of the restaurant.

[aportinga]

Kids are absolutely welcome!

[The Kanisteri]

Originally posted by snow
The Kanisteri should wear a t-shirt with polar bears on it for easy identification so I can find you.

I'll try to find something out and tell later then, ok?

[aportinga]

I'll be wearing an Atlas T-shirt on Saturday.... Or maybe my PC shirt:

"See DOS"
"See DOS RUN"
"RUN DOS RUN"


a-he - dork!

[aportinga]

BTW Kan Man - You're not hanging around me with a T-Shirt with Polar Bears on it ;)

[indycarjunkie]

How about a T-Shirt that says "I reserve my right to keep and arm bears." ?

[The Kanisteri]

Originally posted by aportinga
BTW Kan Man - You're not hanging around me with a T-Shirt with Polar Bears on it ;)

No, I'm not, but I will wear something wacko or funny on.

[aportinga]

How about a T-Shirt that says "I reserve my right to keep and arm bears." ?

[aportinga]

How about a T-Shirt that says "I reserve my right to keep and arm bears." ?

[atbrady2000]

Aportinga do you have any hot chicks coming with you this year? Or will you just hire a few when you get there? And last year smoking was allowed in the seats.

[aportinga]

I'd prefer the hiring of women once there. That way there is more room to stretch out in the car from Chicago to Indy and back ;)

Anyhow - ur just jealous that you were not invited into the shower last year

[catseye_55]

that last post by aportinga is kinda ironic!

How about a T-Shirt that says "I reserve my right to keep and arm bears." ?

I was in El Paso today at Ft Bliss and was stopped and given the "terrorist check" they had my mom, kids and myself get out of the car, then opened the hood, trunk, and even the glove box. While this was going on I gave the GI's a hard time with lines such as " with my accent, long hair and my mom and kids in the cars what kind of terrorist do I look like?" To which the corporal replied, like that "American Talban guy" . Shut me up pretty quick he did! any way I wonder what they would have done had I had on a t-shirt as described above. Oh well after it was all over I shook their hands and told them they were just doing as ordered and I could understand as I grew up at Ft. Bliss and had been in the military myself and for them NOT to TRUST ANYONE coming on post in light of what has been going on these past months. My mom on the other hand was sota "put-out" as she has a base sticker pass and showed her Army-ID. That's life in the big city though! I'm glad I live out here in the boonies!
tuddles,
tony

[aportinga]

That's a riot

2 weeks ago I got pulled over on the river for going too fast in a "No Wake" zone. The DNR clown gave me the full inspection....

"I'd like to see the carburetor and battery."
"You got a fire extinguisher?"
"Life jackets?"
"Horn?"
"Lights?"

I interrupted him at this point...walked over to the radio and asked him "Hey I just put in a new amp you wanna here that too?"

LOL

[Justafan]

Ah, Autographs...

Actually, according to a professional "Autograph Hound" from England I met at the first USGP (who was 22 for 22 by Saturday pre-qualifying!!!), da' Speedway is the place to get autographs.

Just stand by the entry to the paddock near the infield parking lot. Go under the tunnel near the S/F line, turn right just past the paddock. If nothing else, you get to see how the other half lives. Mika and DC--an S600 (Ron Dennis providing the keys). JV--a two year old Honda, oh, how the mighty have fallen...

I wasn't really interested, but I did get MH, Fisi, Jenson Button and of all people, Gil de Ferran. It was really quite humorous watching the EuroSmurfs run the gauntlet of BIG (as in size) US fans, without the help of the local Po-leece and Yellow Hats (Who are terminally PO'ed at F1 due to the excessive paddock"Security.")

Do this on Friday, early. Look for three guys carrying a light blue Mercedes flag. They are excellent "spotters." Tell them the guy from Sacto will be back when TG and CART kiss and make up.

Orange Arrows (RIP?) and Williams did Autograph session at their booth, but it's a mad house.

[aportinga]

The USGP Meet & Greet thread is now in Paddock Club

[The Kanisteri]

Originally posted by snow
The Kanisteri should wear a t-shirt with polar bears on it for easy identification so I can find you.

Nah, I think I'm gonna wear Ramones shirt.

1-2-3-4 Gabba Gabba Hey and so on.

[Bono]

Hey Binx,

Are you from the Philippines? cause I am too. Where the hell did you win those tickets?

Did you go to Malaysia?

Man, I am green with envy!!!

Enjoy