No one at the track is talking much so i thought I would. I was at the track today for the Qualifying Race today. The NASA format has changed at least from my last Champs were they are just doing one qualifying Race. So all the work you do in qualifying up to that point is to get your grid spot, so the Q Race is one where you have to be somewhat smart about it because if you spin or get knocked off track your screwed.
Today Thomas, Drago and Davis looked like they have a little more than those behind them, but it was hard to tell because there was yellow today that limited what could be done to try and gap the pack. If you have not seen the video they did a pretty good job on coverage as they had an in-car camera, the normal track cameras and a drone camera which was interesting.
Both Kyle and Ryan Roberson, (That is Roberson, pronounced like "Robber-son" coming through the door), if the announcer is reading this, were right there and have been all week. Matthew Dirks in an NA car is incredibly quick. For those always crying about the NA, at this track, its a weapon. Looks like he comes up a little short at the end of the back straight but that is about it.
I really can't pick a winner, I have to many friends in the top 6, but i think it comes down to who can manage the tires in the last ten min. of the race. If you have never driven the Toyo there, after driving the Hoosier its just plain scary, you struggle to get the car to turn and you have to hang it out a little to get the car to turn.
I was really impressed with Mark Gibbons, I watched his video today and for a guy who has never been to this track he was driving a pretty good line and i would expect to see him come up through the field.
In closing Thomas is fast, Drago comes with a fast car and race craft, Davis is just consistent. We used to call Hille the Zombie because when he was behind you he would just keep coming, Davis may get that title this year.
For a change the weather at Mid-O is going to dry and cool, so that is something New.
The only thing i saw in tech today was a 99 came in with the intake tube wrapped in foil, oops.
Good luck guys, drink some beer tonight and come out flying in the AM.