1. Road America this week. Do you feel like 4 miles is too long for a circuit?
I don't think it's too long, just not very exciting. The long straights mean you have a lot of time to set up for corners, but they also mean that getting the corner right, and the exit in particular, is all the more important.
2. Kneejerk reaction question. After 1 points race, do you feel better or worse about your car pick?
I'm pretty happy with the AMG so far. It can be a little temperamental when trail-braking, as the back end likes to try to overtake the front. Otherwise, it handles quite well. Plus, it looks and sounds so mean, it wouldn't be right if it were TOO civilized.
3. Last time we were at Road America, Mac won his first race. Last week, Chopz won his first race. Do you think we'll see a first-time winner this week? And who?
Well, unless the top 8 or 9 guys have serious problems, it probably won't be me. I've been consistently 2-4 seconds off the top qualifying times, and I'm finding it difficult to close the gap. However, I don't think that means I suck. It's more like evidence of just how fast these guys really are. I was frustrated at first, but I realize that chasing these guys will make me better. This is only my second season after all, and I missed the first few races of last season too. I'm trying put my ego aside and learn as much as possible. I think my biggest problem is slowing myself down by trying to go too fast. So my goals are to drive smooth, hit my marks, eliminate mistakes, and be prepared to capitalize if someone else makes one.
Oops, I went on a tangent. It's hard to bet against Mac, since his biggest competition is really himself. If he gets out front and doesn't make mistakes, he's gone.
