[RallySnake]

I had a great time at the Jim Russell School at the Silverstone circuit. However, I believe that the principles learned in a Formula car can only be transferred to another car through track time. Solo2 events are really good for sorting out the handling deficiencies of any car and learning to handle them. When I finished building my car, it was a nightmare to drive. I was smart enough to be "very afraid". As I have sorted out the problems one by one I have gotten more confident in the car and myself. Thanks to my Guardian Angel for helping my through.

I will go out on a limb here. "I believe that speed limits are one of the most dangerous things that we deal with in American society." Drivers that are proceeding at the bureaucratically imposed maximum speed for any length of time will become bored. They will find things to occupy their minds other than driving. They will be using the cell phone or eating a hamburger and thinking about anything but driving. I would bet that more than 90 percent of all vehicular accidents in the U.S. are caused by inattention. Look at the stats in Montana where the accident rate has jumped since the speed limits have been enforced. Any one of you who has driven in Italy or Germany can attest to the higher level of attention necessary when the driver decides what the speed limit is. Speed doesn't kill people, inattention does!

If the truth ever comes out about our lost comrade, I believe that he was driving the speed limit and that his attention was on the conversation instead of the driving. I feel terrible that they are gone, but all the talk about "being more careful" and "saving it for the track" is largely counterproductive. I have to constantly watch out for exactly this while running rallies. When we are proceeding at low speeds, it is tempting to look over at the map or talk about the traps. It IS important to stay on course and on time and work with my navigator. But, job one is "DRIVE THE CAR".

Paul