Pontiac Excitement 400 Live Report by J. Seravalli

Well, I just got in ths afternoon from RIR and I was a little disappointed. As the threat of rain and the fact that in order to watch qualifying (WC) meant purchasing a ticket for the Busch Race surfaced, we decided not to go to the track and just stayed behind at the hotel and partied late into the night. As it turned out, Derrike didn't make first round. As it was, he started 43rd, the spot usually reserved for ol' D.W. or Dave Marcis. Yeah, I know. But you can't argue with reality. Right?

Anyway, the race started. It was soon evident that the bigger, more well funded mega-teams would have their way. And they did. I will say, however, that Derrike did move up through the field pretty well and held off being lapped for quite a while. At least 100 laps or so. It was a shame. He seemed to have a pretty decent car but without the money, crew experience and adequate seat time, this team is gonna' struggle for a while.

As far as Richmond itself, I've been going to this track for 5 years. There's really not much to do. In previous years the race (Pontiac Excitement 400) was held in March and Richmond not being that far south, well it could be pretty cold. So not much to do but party at hotel or some local bars. I figured because it was June and a night race, we could go out and explore, but no.

I don't know how many of the readers have been to a city for an entire "Race Weekend", but it does wipe you out. Both physically and financially. Nothing is inexpensive from the Hotel to the Waffle House. From the ticket prices to souvenirs. And on the physical note, it's just run, run, run! Up early, eat breakfast, beat the mob to the track. For example, we arrived at the track yesterday at 11:00am and barely found a spot on the side street we always park on. This was over 8 hrs before the drop of the green flag. (Note: If you decide to got to RIR, DO NOT PARK ON THE FAIRGROUNDS LOT !!!!!!!!!!!) I can't emphasize this enough.

I know it sounds as if I had a bad time, but I didn't. I'm just prone to complaining. I'd follow the circuit up to Michigan this weekend if I had the time and money. I am going to Pocono on the 21st, but just for the day. It's close enough from my home in Philadelphia, PA.