After-NG discussion thread.

[Keyan]

i don't see a thread already for this, hopefully we can summarize our thoughts in a single place for the committee members to read (since we all couldn't get our thoughts out at the banquet!) use the media thread for media and the thoughts thread for thoughts!

My thoughts:

It was an excellent year. Way better than last year. NG10 was my first, and it was pretty awesome. And then NG11 blew me away! There was a couple familiar faces from it being the second time around, which lead to a lot more mingling and enjoying myself at the meet and greet. The hotel was spectacular. No imaginary bed bugs, clean rooms, clean environment, staff was AWESOME! (the front desk hooked me up with AAA batteries out of some gizmo they weren't using because my FRS died!) I would take that hotel over the "atrium" hotel any day of the year. Also, the proximity to the events. Only having to make 1 or 2 turns makes getting worried about getting lost less nerve wrecking, and the caravan was in fewer segments, and who doesn't love a huge line of cars!

Auto cross, road course and drags were handled spectacularly, thanks to committee, staff, and volunteers. what was the track managers name? That guy was ON THE BALL. I'm 100% convinced the owners sent him down personally to handle us because of our situation last year and he did an AWESOME job. I'm glad he was there.

The banquet, OMG. Not only were we in an actual hall (remember, i had only been to NG10 prior...) but the committee honored the requests for pictures of the winners (from last year), allowing better recognition of those who won (I know cars and forum handles, not faces!) The food was awesome, altho I was kind of worried about that green kool-aid they were serving the cult--- er i mean participants (i kid i kid). :lo5l: And the prizes were awesome. I can't believe Broomfield raffled a front housing....when I saw him pull it out of the box I was like :eek5:


I have no complaints. Well....other than I think I deserve an honorable mention for the quickest R/T for the drags :lol: I pulled a .009 but it was during Test-n-Tune and not during the quick 8. When you announced there was a trophy for it I was seriously like "#@$@#$&!#@&(!#&!!!!!!!! meeee omg! I'm gonna win something! hurray!" in my head. But then my name wasn't called. Oh well. I guess that's because I bitched out before the races because I didn't want to break my car :lol::lol: Oh well you win some you lose some.

All in all, it was an amazing year....and I don't know how you will top it for NG12; But I look forward to it on a daily basis.

-James M(insertrandomhere)ski (coughalancough) :)

[Boomer3000]

EPIC<<<< Nough said!!

[dpartinvr4]

keep it in Indy :)

[green-lantern]

I think it's safe to say it was my favorite. It was cool hanging out with you James.

[Lori]

WOW. That's all I can say. Thank you so much. I opened this thread thinking, "Uh oh... Here it comes... Someone has a complaint that they didn't want to voice at the banquet..." I was so wrong. I'm still waiting for the shoe to drop, but I'm REALLY glad it didn't happen yet. Thank you!!

[Slacker1357]

every NG must have a Road course. If I use my 2 weeks of leave to make to the one next year... I hope to drive the piss out of my car again!
(just maybe not so many runs in the drag race)

[i3igpete]

I've never heard anybody trying road course for the first time say they DIDN'T like it. Maybe ray will start building time attack cars like AMS now, haha!

[Maximal]

First time road coursing for me was one of the Memphis NG's. I got in 3 laps before missing a shift and effing up my car, ending my day. I've been hooked ever since.

[Broomfield Racing]

I've never heard anybody trying road course for the first time say they DIDN'T like it. Maybe ray will start building time attack cars like AMS now, haha!

Omg yes please.

[lawdogg]

I had an awesome time seeing everyone I've met before and getting to know you guys & girls even better, and meeting all the new people who were down there, it was an awesome week and I'm so glad to meet everyone. Maybe next year I can actually bring a car, too. :p

[curt_gendron]

I agree with the OP, this NG was the best. Every other year there seemed like there was one or two major issues, but this year truly was awesome. The hotel was clean, and well ran. And using the Sam's club parking lot to display the cars and park the trailers worked perfect. The location of the hotel was perfect for traveling to the events. Everything was less than 5 miles from the hotel and you could even stay off the freeway to get to the events. Very cool. The racing events were managed perfectly. No huge track delays, unless it was on our end for breaking stuff. The banquet had AC and good food. Plus the slide-show pictures of the winners was a very nice touch. Monument Circle makes for a great car show location. I love seeing all the 3/Ses displayed in the circle.

I've been to 8 of the 10 NGs, and this one was by far the best for organization and execution. After the first four NGs, I stopped going because of the piss pour organization of them. I came back because I felt Alan and Lori could bring the NG back to the way it should be. And it finally has. I've put on more 3/S car shows and 3/S events than anyone on this message board so take it from me, this NG was well done!!! Thanks to all the people who made it happen.

I probably could make a few suggestions for the future to further boost attendance. First and foremost, the price needs to come down. The NG spends way too much on insurance. With all the money the NG has spent on insurance for the NG over the years, I'm sure we could raffle off a new Viper for NG 2012. It simply isn't needed. I've seen plenty of other multiply day racing events where spectators pay $20 for three days at the track. There is always risk as an organizer of an event that something could happen. But such is life. You have to put some trust into the 3/S community and get rid of the ridiculous amount of insurance you pay. The price of the NG is the biggest reason we don't have 200 3/Ses at it every year. I'd love to see that someday. But every year I get at least 10 people ask me "why is the NG so expensive" and I tell them why.

Keep up the great work Alan and Lori. You guys put in countless hours of work every year and its very much appreciated!!

later,
Curt

[kingpablo]

Had a great time again this year. Its always nice to see everybody. Lori did a hell of a job and we're glad she's staying.

Glad I didn't choose to drag race, as I got home and had a huge ethanol leak right below my battery (kept smelling ethanol all weekend, but couldn't pinpoint it due to rain and puddles). Lucky I didn't blow up, burn up or something terrible along the way. Totally explained my fuel pressure drop offs in testing. Anyhow, contrats to all the winners.

We were talking on Saturday after the car show about how we should expand the show categories to include Best Original body 1st gen Stealth, same for 3000GT's and then same for 2nd Gen Stealth / 3000GT that are running original bodies. It would be four more categories, but it sure would provide some awards to those people that haven't modified their cars. We all liked seeing all the original cars, and it'd be nice to see some sort of "Classics" category. Some of those cars were outstanding. Just a thought.

[Alan92RTTT]

The NG spends way too much on insurance. With all the money the NG has spent on insurance for the NG over the years, I'm sure we could raffle off a new Viper for NG 2012. It simply isn't needed.

The insurance that we carry is mandated by the tracks. Its not an option.

[Jimvr4]

The insurance that we carry is mandated by the tracks. Its not an option.

Is this a variable depending on which tracks you're doing business with?

[Alan92RTTT]

Different tracks/facilities do have different requirements. We stay with the tracks that have lower requirements.

[Jimvr4]

Not sure what kind of events Curt has been running but I imagine insurance needs vary for Road Course, AutoX and Drag. Running all of these probably increases the insurance cost but I don't think the community would want to lose any of them. Great job again and I hope to meet you at the next NG :bigthumb:

[Maximal]

A complete package is cheaper than most road course events alone that I've gone to. I don't think the price is that much for a vacation or a week long car event (whatever you consider it).

[Keyan]

We were talking on Saturday after the car show about how we should expand the show categories to include Best Original body 1st gen Stealth, same for 3000GT's and then same for 2nd Gen Stealth / 3000GT that are running original bodies. It would be four more categories, but it sure would provide some awards to those people that haven't modified their cars. We all liked seeing all the original cars, and it'd be nice to see some sort of "Classics" category. Some of those cars were outstanding. Just a thought.

Maybe classes like "Best OEM first gen" second gen etc for those people who are running all stock parts and are clean.

[Alan92RTTT]

"Stock Appearing"?

[whitedragon]

Well instead of all that, how bout just having people sign up for what class they would like to compete in at NG registration. Then just print that on their car show card in really big letters or something.

[curt_gendron]

Not sure what kind of events Curt has been running but I imagine insurance needs vary for Road Course, AutoX and Drag. Running all of these probably increases the insurance cost but I don't think the community would want to lose any of them. Great job again and I hope to meet you at the next NG :bigthumb:

Here is a great example. This last weekend when we were having a blast in Indy, there was a race event up at BIR (Brainard International Raceway). There was a road course, drags, autox and drifting. It was put on by a local performance shop. Here was the pricing:



Admission / Competition / Camping Fees
Entry fee: $10.00/Day or $20 (Saturday & Sunday Pass – includes free camping)
Children ages 6 – 12: $5.00/Day or $10 (Saturday & Sunday Pass)
Children 5 and under: FREE!
Drag Racing: $25/day per class
Drift: $25/day


It was for imports and sport compacts. It probably had 300 cars there. So not a super huge car event where you can spread the costs out. But I also know in this case that the tracks insurance was used and not some supplemental policy that the shop had to provide.

[R/T93]

I gladly pay 280 to race on the road course here for one day.... NG is cheap, guys.

[Jimvr4]

One day on the road course in NorCal (Thunderhill) is at least $200. For me the biggest cost would be getting to NG and back home again. I wouldn't mind the actual fees at all.

[Alan92RTTT]

Here is a great example. This last weekend when we were having a blast in Indy, there was a race event up at BIR (Brainard International Raceway). There was a road course, drags, autox and drifting. It was put on by a local performance shop. Here was the pricing:



It was for imports and sport compacts. It probably had 300 cars there. So not a super huge car event where you can spread the costs out. But I also know in this case that the tracks insurance was used and not some supplemental policy that the shop had to provide.

If we knew for a fact that we could pull 300 cars + a few hundred spectators. we could drop the prices a lot and have leverage to get the tracks to ease up on the insurance requirement. But we don't.

We have to price based on the what history tells us we will see. We can not take the risk of having to cover the difference out of our own pocket.

[JasonY]

Epic NG was epic.

That is all.

Jason

[IPD]

Well instead of all that, how bout just having people sign up for what class they would like to compete in at NG registration. Then just print that on their car show card in really big letters or something.

best purple, atx, awd, tt, stealth/3000gt hybrid with glow in the dark accents. :suspect:

[Maximal]

Some performance oriented categories might be a good idea actually. Good to see someone who put a ton of time into modifying their car get something more than just a race win for it. Plus the best modded car isn't the one that always wins when you have issues during a race.

[kingpablo]

Not that there's any right or wrong here on the category ideas, and my car is clearly super modified. I saw so many nice cars this weekend. We were just talking about how some of the modifieds grab all the attention, yet there are many super nice "Stock" looking cars that deserve as much recognition. I really liked it when the car would appear to be mostly stock from the outside, then be well done when the engine bay was opened. You can clearly slice and dice categories up to subsets. I really think that Stealths & 3000GT's should be split overall, except in categories like "Best Engine Bay" where it wouldn't make sense. Perhaps its time to look at all the categories. We are at 20 years on these cars. Classics categories? I'd just like to think that there should be some categories where a super modified or a 99 conversion didn't win. (I recognize there were some, I'm just making a point) We should probably also put in a VON category, as that guy builds some of the nicest looking cars ever (kidding on the award, true on his builds). You could also split the categories we already have into best 1st gen stealth, and best 1st gen 3000gt. I'd then only award 1st & 2nds rather than a 1,2,3 to keep it flowing.

So additionally you'd have:

Best 1st Gen Stealth - Stock Looking. - Anything under the hood is fine.
Best 1st Gen 3000GT - Stock Looking - Anything under the hood is fine.
Best 2nd Gen Stealth - Stock Looking. - Anything under the hood is fine.
Best 2nd Gen 3000GT - Stock Looking - Anything under the hood is fine.

I guess I say this because although I like the idea of a full on "Classics" category, the cars do better engine-wise when you start to clean them up. I mean do we have to keep five miles of vaccum hose? Where do you draw the line? You're disqualified because you ran hard pipes?

[kingpablo]

best purple, atx, awd, tt, stealth/3000gt hybrid with glow in the dark accents. :suspect:

And the award for the best purple, atx, awd, tt, stealth/3000gt hybrid with glow in the dark accents goes to....

[BigTyla]

While I have never attended an NG, I'd like to state that if this recent one was so epic, it definitely needs to stay in Indy. This is especially true if Lori is going to continue planning this event as I'm sure this location is most convenient to her.

Looks like I need to attend next year's event with or without a 3S. I'll just hitch a ride with Rob and Dani. :p

[curt_gendron]

If we knew for a fact that we could pull 300 cars + a few hundred spectators. we could drop the prices a lot and have leverage to get the tracks to ease up on the insurance requirement. But we don't.

We have to price based on the what history tells us we will see. We can not take the risk of having to cover the difference out of our own pocket.

I know it is tough to make a cheaper event when the numbers are lower. And you guys do a good job with what you have. I just got to believe there are some tracks that would be willing to not have the super huge insurance costs. Heck, at the same BIR track, I've drag raced there on a Wednesday night for $20 and there was only about 75 cars racing that night.

You guys did such a fantastic job organizing and running the NG this year. I know that if the costs for the attendees was cut in half, the number of cars there would probably increase by a third. Its really the only thing that is left to fix IMO. And I don't want to take away from all the great things that finally came together this year. It was truly a great NG.

later,
Curt

[Alan92RTTT]

Bring the 350Z and run the the other class. I want to build that up a bit.

IMO, I'd like the NG to be about people that love the 3S's regardless of what they currently drive.

[IronmanTT]

Here's to hoping NG12 is closer or more centralized... so I can make at least one ... travel costs I think is the biggest deterrent for most people.. :D

[JasonY]

Everytime the NG has moved more "central" the numbers have fallen. The biggest group that shows up EVERY year is the north east guys and upper midwest. Moving central/southern will hurt the most loyal of us to the NG who DO show everytime.

I vote stay in Indy, it was a perfect location.

Jason

[BigTyla]

Bring the 350Z and run the the other class. I want to build that up a bit.

IMO, I'd like the NG to be about people that love the 3S's regardless of what they currently drive.

If I bring anything besides a 3S it will be my Talon. :) I'd love to participate in that!

I'm selling the Z anyway. :D

[Lori]

Curt, thank you for the kind words, and for the constructive criticism. We've exhausted options with track insurance. I'm not quite sure why it is the way it is (Peggy handles this, not me), but I know it is. I, too, would love to lower the costs, but we spend A LOT of money on things like badges, lanyards, paper and toner for printing, t-shirts, and, of course, track rentals. Honestly, that's where the bulk is. The insurance isn't as bad as you think, but we definitely shouldn't discount it. This year we shopped around a little more (in the past we tried but couldn't find others) and shaved a little bit off. We'll stick with this company I think.

I appreciate your faith in me. That means a lot. As for the location, you're exactly right - it's a huge deal for me. I returned from this NG pretty sick (no, NOT HUNGOVER!), so I'm trying to get some rest. I'll post more when I'm feeling better, but for right now let me just say that we're exploring options and Indy has made it VERY enticing for us. Great job to everyone who really made us look good.

[IPD]

i totally favor indy. i wasn't around for memphis, but the numbers do seem to speak against both MI and TN. yes, it's a haul for a lot of people. i myself would have to drive 12 hours from my house. still, it's a single day's drive for pretty much everything east of the mississippi & all the way west to tx/ok. if you look at the demographics--this is the vast majority of forum members.

while there is a significant ownership contingent in CA, anything in that state will not attract more than just local membership--i'm almost certain. getting CA members to indy is bad enough. getting NY members to CA is practically impossible.

and while a location in OKC or KC would be more central, as long as Lori is running the show, i'm ok with it being a bit closer to her backyard.

[mb3000]

i totally favor indy. i wasn't around for memphis, but the numbers do seem to speak against both MI and TN. yes, it's a haul for a lot of people. i myself would have to drive 12 hours from my house. still, it's a single day's drive for pretty much everything east of the mississippi & all the way west to tx/ok. if you look at the demographics--this is the vast majority of forum members.

while there is a significant ownership contingent in CA, anything in that state will not attract more than just local membership--i'm almost certain. getting CA members to indy is bad enough. getting NY members to CA is practically impossible.

and while a location in OKC or KC would be more central, as long as Lori is running the show, i'm ok with it being a bit closer to her backyard.

And risk being humiliated by BigCheif? :lol:

I don't think the cost of the actual NG is the problem, everything else is. Gas, food, hotel, & time away from work inhibited me from coming to this year's NG. I'm sure there are others like me that had the same conflicts.

[Jimvr4]

And risk being humiliated by BigCheif? :lol:

I don't think the cost of the actual NG is the problem, everything else is. Gas, food, hotel, & time away from work inhibited me from coming to this year's NG. I'm sure there are others like me that had the same conflicts.

I too did the math. I figured as much as $1000 just for gas (~5000 mile roundtrip), add about 4 nights+meals just to get there and back, add event cost and you're looking at $2K for a CA resident to bring a 3S (and I didn't count misc breakdowns lol). Hard to justify taking a 10 day vacation for myself when I have a family of 5.

[Gearheadvr4]

I firmly believe the numbers where much higher due to the promise of the Indy pace lap. I know that's why I went and I heard the same from a lot of others. Like most members we thought we'd be going around with the 1991 Stealth pace car, or at least be able to see it. The pace lap was the main draw but I sooo glad I was around for everything else too.

If it's a further west or southern location and the cost for guests and events comes down then I'll be back for sure. Indy is just too far and cost too much. It was close to 24 hours for me to get home.

[Show Killer]

I have been to 9 of the 10 NG's and this was by far the best. It was 1200 miles one way for me and i will drive it again next year. I say keep it in indy for 1 more year. If you don't i will drive to wherever it is, no matter by me.

Phil

[TT Eric]

My first NG and I like it very much! 900 miles is acceptable for me, too much to the south would have been hard (Memphis was/is too far for me).

I really liked to meet you guys, it's cool to put a 'face' on a nick/avatar!

As the only guy from Canada I really felt welcomed and not left alone at all even with my shitty English speaking, I read and write in English 50x more then I have the chance to speak it.

It was cool to spend time with you Jason, you are a cool guy, thanks for sharing the room, ride and meal! Chris and Jennifer are great people, it was great to meet you guys, Anthony (Toni) is really a nice guy you did a great job with that bumber, it was cool speaking with Don Langlois, James, Dan 'urination station' is a funny dude, Robert Lataille, Ray is always a cool guy to hang with, Dave 'cone killer' you impressed me with your car, but mostly with your crazy driving, you are a nice guy and thank you very much to make my trip there all worth it, you are a very generous guy!! Geordon and wife (thanks for the jacket again) it was nice meeting you guys, Ryan (Lawdogg) is a really nice guy too, very kind, the first guy that came salute me when I arrived to the hotel, FutureMan I wish we had more time to speak together! I've been mpressed by Philip's car, igt3pete's car, by Highboosted 'crazy Bimmer' driver's skill, Von's car, Bill Buell's car and may others, that I had not the time or opportunity to speak with. Maybe next year.

I've been impressed by the Lori's 'human side', a very cool person, always ready to laugh, smiling all the time, she handled all the event and detail like a queen. Thank you very much, without you it would have different, you make the difference! Sorry not having my red hair on for you! :D


"Stock Appearing"?

I vote for a 'Sleeper car' category! :D

Or the ugliest/dirtiest engine bay! hahaha

Eric

[R/T93]

5000 mile round trip says otherwise as to a perfect location...

[i3igpete]

every time i saw your car i kept trying to remember what souviens meant. i never could figure it out.
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souviens = "remember", ironically

[IPD]

dirtiest engine bay? damn....i could have won that one a month ago. my OEM green was practically yellow with all the wax buildup.

[TT Eric]

every time i saw your car i kept trying to remember what souviens meant. i never could figure it out.
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souviens = "remember", ironically

LOL yeah exactly!

Eric

[Ray Pampena]

i had a GREAT time! it was nice to see everyone again. wish my car would cooperate but it was plenty of fun anyway. WHO LENT ME A SMALL FLASHLIGHT?? i have it and ill mail it to you

[Alex3000gt]

Road course was awesome. I learned new things about cars and racing(thanks Pete). I will definitely be doing that again!

[jacob666]

Even though I had to leave before the pace lap, I get the feeling as well that it really did boost things! Looking at it straight, this is the kind of thing that can keep NG separate from the various BRG/ECG/UMG even more. So, any chance to incorporate things like this are a major +++ in my book :D

either way, fantastic job Lori! and TY NG sponsors for helping make it a major success :D

[Nationalmilkman]

I was really cool to meet Ray and Phillip, Von, Bill, and all these guys I've looked up to and to find out they are so human and easy to talk to. I'll be back where ever it may be. Hope I can run with Pete and all the road course monsters.

[TT4ME]

It was my first NG, and I am already in for next year. Location doesn't matter. Good work NG committee!!

It was great meeting a lot of you, I'm actually glad it rained late Saturday night. I'm not very good at meeting new people but the tight quarters under that roof forced me to! Great times were had. See you all next year!

BTW: car made it back. I think my engine is ready for an overhaul. Also, transfer case is dry every 3-400 miles.. which makes me wonder how people lock them up? 10k miles dry? They have to be making tons of noise by that point.......

[MaxClass]

I too did the math. I figured as much as $1000 just for gas (~5000 mile roundtrip), add about 4 nights+meals just to get there and back, add event cost and you're looking at $2K for a CA resident to bring a 3S (and I didn't count misc breakdowns lol). Hard to justify taking a 10 day vacation for myself when I have a family of 5.

How about a West Coast NG in Fabulous Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It has everything and nice driving distance from Denver, LA, San Francisco, Salt Lake City and even Portland and Seattle. Plus great hotels (and Casinos) not to mention great weather except for the summer heat.

Plus we can even send pictures to the guys back east.

Thanks again for the great pictures and for showing us out here what we missed.

[i3igpete]

does WCNC usually have race events, or is it more of a meet-and-greet type of thing? That is the big thing that sets NG apart from UMG/BRG/ECG/etc, and what justifies the cost. Whereas the other gatherings are mainly social events with one day to cruise around on public roads, NG lets you beat the piss out of your car on a track for three days straight. That is why no other gathering can replace it.

When you look at what other car clubs do (supras invade las vegas, nissan z-fest, chevy beretta fest) they all only have one day of racing, and it's usually an open test-and-tune day at the track they choose - they don't rent it out.

[Jeffwvr4]

I've been to all the NG's and I would definitely put this year's NG in the top 10. Seriously, although the first NG is one of the most memorable to me, mostly because of the novelty of seeing that meany 3S's in the same place for the first time, I believe this year's was the best one yet.... hands down. It went more smoothly than any of the others, there were no incidents and drama that I heard about, the staff at each of the venues seemed very professional and helpful, the hotel and staff there was very nice and honestly cared, and everyone behaved themselves.

The committee also acted on suggestions/ideas from previous NG's, such as recognition at the banquet of people who had been to previous numbers of NGs, or their first NG, but especially for those who had been to all 10 because I got to stand up for that one ;-))) And having pictures up on the big screen and televisions at the Banquet made it much easier to put a car with a face. Having an announcer at the drag strip who told us who the drivers were, and not just car numbers. But most of all, the porta-potty in the back of the parking lot made it much more convenient for those of us who can't hold their beer, hehe ;-))).

I heard there were some complaints, or let-downs expressed about the lap around Indy because we didn't get to use the actual official pace car that never was, or we didn't get to run at higher speeds, but as soon as I got my car on the track, any of those feelings that I may have had vanished quickly. The slower speed also gave us a chance to take it all in and not worry about the driving. It was great! I damn near peed my pants when we crossed the start/finish line. I couldn't help but picture myself as A.J.Jeff, Little Jeff Unser, or Jeff Andretti.

A HUGE well-done goes to Lori and the committee for making this the best NG yet !!! I Hope to see everyone again next year.

[Keyan]

I've been to all the NG's and I would definitely put this year's NG in the top 10.


lol i think everyone would :lo5l::lo5l::lo5l::lo5l::lo5l:

[BigTyla]

I've been to all the NG's and I would definitely put this year's NG in the top 10.

I see what you did there.

[Jimvr4]

How about a West Coast NG in Fabulous Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It has everything and nice driving distance from Denver, LA, San Francisco, Salt Lake City and even Portland and Seattle. Plus great hotels (and Casinos) not to mention great weather except for the summer heat.

Plus we can even send pictures to the guys back east.

Thanks again for the great pictures and for showing us out here what we missed.

IDK. Last time Tom tried to organize a WCNC for Buttonwillow it failed since too many CA guys are broke ass. He was even going to put up a couple G of his own money to make it happen. Someone would have to do the math to figure out how many cars you need to justify expenses.

[93STLTH]

IDK. Last time Tom tried to organize a WCNC for Buttonwillow it failed since too many CA guys are broke ass. He was even going to put up a couple G of his own money to make it happen. Someone would have to do the math to figure out how many cars you need to justify expenses.

Yeah, there's no way we could do a WCNC in the same style as the NG, the attendance numbers just aren't there. The west coast people like to bitch that they're left out, but when the chance comes to prove they can show in numbers, they all seem to have busted cars! :Doh:
Just to give everyone an idea of what it takes for a west coast guy to attend, I'm still on my road trip back to SD. Spending the night in northern Arizona tonight before the final leg into SoCal. It's a seemingly never ending view of the desert, the same travel stops, the same rude assed truck drivers cutting in front of you and taking 10 minutes to pass another truck... There aren't many owners who would do this trip, much less twice, like me, but the experience of being at the NG is worth the endless road trip. Many thanks to Lori, Alan, Peggy and Bob for the great job they do. :Clap:

[Zucchini]

...Dan 'urination station' is a funny dude...

You're a funny dude, yourself Eric. And points just for being a Canadian.. haha. Thanks for putting up with my random french.

Anyways, had an awesome time this year. NG11 definitely kicked last year's ass big time. The hotel was way better as were the arrangements and location. Being closer to the track was a huge plus. The Comfort Inn accommodated us very well and the owner/manager guy said he wanted to do more for us because he didn't know how awesome we were gonna be. It was really great to see a lot of new faces this year. I think when Lori asked how many were attending their first NG, half the room stood up which is absolutely what we need to keep the NG alive. Thanks to Lori, Alan, Peggy, Bob, and the rest of the committee for making this happen again and for continuing to make it happen in the future.
I hope everyone got home safely. And Jerrid, I'm curious, how did you get that car home? Hope everything worked out. Sorry about your tranny.

On another note, although NG was awesome this year, I'm a firm supporter of moving it to another location in 2012. Like Lori said, even Memphis wanted us back, but we can't be going to the same place every year. NG needs a little variety. Most of the people that voted to stay in Indy for NG12 were the newcomers who haven't been there for 2 years. I've been to NG four times but only two cities. Returning to Indy can be an option in the future but not for next year unless the committee can't find another location that will accommodate us for a reasonable price. (I'm sure LORP would be offering us a great price for next year.) I like the NE Ohio idea... a lot closer for me :), but the Kentucky/Cincy location seems cool, too.

[Torch]

I see what you did there.

Damn, thats exactly what I was gonna say lololol


I think when Lori asked how many were attending their first NG, half the room stood up which is absolutely what we need to keep the NG alive. Thanks to Lori, Alan, Peggy, Bob, and the rest of the committee for making this happen again and for continuing to make it happen in the future.


I was apart of that group, since this was my first national gathering. and, I DEFINITELY plan to attend next year.. I had a blast, a LOT more fun than I thought it would be. It was also pretty awesome to see everyone stand up and tell Lori to stay, respect was shown where it was deserved.

[IPD]

Yeah, there's no way we could do a WCNC in the same style as the NG, the attendance numbers just aren't there. The west coast people like to bitch that they're left out, but when the chance comes to prove they can show in numbers, they all seem to have busted cars! :Doh:
Just to give everyone an idea of what it takes for a west coast guy to attend, I'm still on my road trip back to SD. Spending the night in northern Arizona tonight before the final leg into SoCal. It's a seemingly never ending view of the desert, the same travel stops, the same rude assed truck drivers cutting in front of you and taking 10 minutes to pass another truck... There aren't many owners who would do this trip, much less twice, like me, but the experience of being at the NG is worth the endless road trip. Many thanks to Lori, Alan, Peggy and Bob for the great job they do. :Clap:

winning "Best in Show" kinda softens the blow of a multi-day trip, eh?

[Granny]

I'm so glad you decided to stay Lori. :)

We had a blast!
HD said it was the best vacation she has ever had and would love to go again.

With such a wonderful group of people how could anyone not have enjoyed it?

[OBXBoost]

Can anyone tell me if they think that the NG helped with 3SGTO.org awareness or membership? I think that would be awesome :)

[i3igpete]

HD was indeed a HD

[Granny]

HD was indeed a HD

She really liked your car.

[Alan92RTTT]

Can anyone tell me if they think that the NG helped with 3SGTO.org awareness or membership? I think that would be awesome :)

I'd hope so. It was cool seeing the 3SGTO logo on the projector screen.

I did see several registrations come in during the NG from people at the NG.

[speedy25]

Definitely a good event. Lots of fun stuff to do and all in a nice small area. I dont think any other location can put so much in one small area.

I would have come in years past, but there were always too many unanswered questions about the event that I opted to stay home. It was kinda the same way this time too, like where was check in and what time would it be open. Although Alan eventually told me WHERE to find the "registration" room, it would have been nice to know when it would be open. I dont know if a lot of details were kept hidden because of 3SI politics, or they were just oversights, but a little extra info would make newbies fell better about what happens when.

Varying the location is a good idea. NE Ohio was mentioned so Nelson Ledges could be the road course. I could help with negotiations there since I have known the track managers for decades. Still thinking about what dragstrip or autocross nearby. It wont be as convenient as Indy was. MidOhio could be a possibility too, but you can be assured the rental cost will be MUCH higher. Bluegrass? Sorry Cincy guys, lots of conjecture, but it wont ever be finished.

Winning the Autocross for Stock suspension NA was a surprise. Killing the AWD TT guys times was ever a better surprise. Chatting with others about a few techniques I know theres at least 2 more seconds I can shave off on another day!

I have lots of pics both regular and 3-D. I dont spend all my time at the keyboard so you'll have to wait until I get a few extra minutes to post some. I do have the autocross cone massacre! :)

Patti had a blast too. Thanks to all who treated her so nice that she could enjoy a car event.

See ya online... or at a track!

-"Speedy Pete"

[Torch]

I found out about this site on the trip to NG11, so yes... this event definitely helped in the expanding of this site!

[Alan92RTTT]

I would have come in years past, but there were always too many unanswered questions about the event that I opted to stay home. It was kinda the same way this time too, like where was check in and what time would it be open. Although Alan eventually told me WHERE to find the "registration" room, it would have been nice to know when it would be open. I dont know if a lot of details were kept hidden because of 3SI politics, or they were just oversights, but a little extra info would make newbies fell better about what happens when.

I think you were looking for this page 3000GT / Stealth National Gathering 2011 - schedule (http://www.3sng.org/?link=schedule)

[IPD]

I found out about this site on the trip to NG11, so yes... this event definitely helped in the expanding of this site!

they do a pretty good job of censoring everything over at the other site. clearly its owners/operators aren't dedicated to furthering the platform/community.

[green-lantern]

I found out about this site on the trip to NG11, so yes... this event definitely helped in the expanding of this site!

ha ha, it was nice to meet you, glad you found your way over here.......what was it cool cat?

[DirtyRyda]

The NG site led me to this site. I don't keep up with the politics, so I didn't know about any of that stuff. I usually just check in to see about any meets or when I need help and hadn't heard anything. I had heard 3sgto mentioned a month or so ago by a guy I saw at a concert with a stealth. (actually it was 3 guys in a Stealth, and they all said they had 3/S's... naturally only looked like one was running lol)

[Maximal]

Well good to see people are making their way over here...guess that sponsorship money is paying off Alan. :)

[B-Man]

This thread is hard to keep up with! One comment on the location. I'd love to do Indy again. Seems a little far for some people in the south, but they seemed to still have a great turnout. My only gripe about doing Indy again, is doing the same roadcourse a third year. I'd really like to change it up. Maybe even run it backwards.

[Nationalmilkman]

HD was indeed a HD

I'll second that comment!

[Zucchini]

...NE Ohio was mentioned so Nelson Ledges could be the road course. I could help with negotiations there since I have known the track managers for decades. Still thinking about what dragstrip or autocross nearby...

Is this place only a road course? There's no room for an AutoX setup? And no dragstrip?

[Nationalmilkman]

Who needs tracks?

Road course - run it through down town, where ever we may be.

AutoX - Wal-mart parking lot!

Drag race - airport runs between plane landings.

Bam! I just put NG in any town anywhere!

[93STLTH]

Just got home at 6 pm tonight. My car hates me right now, an oil change and a good cleaning should fix that.
I see the NG thread has been closed on the other site. I made a post yesterday saying I wouldn't be posting any pics from the NG in their 1 mandatory thread and that got deleted before the close. I guess more people will have to come over here to get their NG picture fix. Smart move on their part. :bigthumb:

[Alex3000gt]

Just got home at 6 pm tonight. My car hates me right now, an oil change and a good cleaning should fix that.
I see the NG thread has been closed on the other site. I made a post yesterday saying I wouldn't be posting any pics from the NG in their 1 mandatory thread and that got deleted before the close. I guess more people will have to come over here to get their NG picture fix. Smart move on their part. :bigthumb:

Welcome home Tom! Glad to see you AND the beautiful Stealth made it back safely.

[Jimvr4]

Welcome home Tom! Glad to see you AND the beautiful Stealth made it back safely.

Seconded. Your car has been all the way to NG twice and I STILL haven't seen it once here in California

[93STLTH]

Welcome home Tom! Glad to see you AND the beautiful Stealth made it back safely.

Thanks Alex. It's been a longggg trip, but well worth it. The car had some issues with the Southwest desert heat and climbing mountain grades at the same time. The temp gauge was sneaking up if I had the AC on, and with 114 degree temps in Phoenix, I needed the AC! Had to keep cycling it on and off to keeps the temps down. I was so happy to finally hit the mountains outside of San Diego and the cool 75 degree temps!

[93STLTH]

Seconded. Your car has been all the way to NG twice and I STILL haven't seen it once here in California

Well, I haven't seen your beautiful Spyder either, but the day will come.

[Show Killer]

Haha....i've seen the sign in Cali a few times now on I-10 headed east, "Don't overheat, turn off your A/C next 10 miles". It never fails, you always see a few truckers out there broke down on the side of the road.

Glad you made it home safe. See you next year.

Phil

[93STLTH]

Thanks Phil, I hope I can be there. The dates have to work with my work schedule.

[GTwizard]

Was a blast for sure. 2 years at menphis, than 2 years Indy, would love to try an other track for sure now. Something farther south would be nice. That 900 miles was tough. LOL.
Thank you to everyone that made this happen. Although the wife is not much into cars, she had a blast as well. And so did Buz. LOL.
Nice to see new faces and old alike. One of these days I'll get a trans to last for more than 4 days. looking forward to the next one.

[shmoo]

^^ and good meeting you don, right?

buz, your wife, and your faces are all engraved in my mind :)

_isiah

[speedy25]

I think you were looking for this page 3000GT / Stealth National Gathering 2011 - schedule (http://www.3sng.org/?link=schedule)

I found that schedule OK and printed it out, BUT there is nothing listed for the morning except for the caravan to the track. Luckily i thought to try and find the registration room in the morning before that to get all the waivers signed and all the other stuff. When I got there I just followed (I think Eric) in since his tshirt said "STAFF" on it. So my guesses were OK, but listing "Check in- 8:00 to 9:00" would have been better.

Thanks again for all your (and all the rest of event staff's) hard work to make this event happen, and be a lot of fun.

-SP

[i3igpete]

technically, i don't think you weren supposed to be able to register in the morning. Don't call them being gracious enough to allow you to register late for your event "being disorganized"

[Lori]

There wasn't supposed to be a check-in that morning, if I remember correctly. We added it at the last moment. Also, if you checked the hotel, there were signs all over the lobby to guide you to the registration room.

[speedy25]

Is this place only a road course? There's no room for an AutoX setup? And no dragstrip?

Yep, Ledges is just a road course. There is acreage for...grass tracking! :)

However BeaveRun might also be affordable. Guardrail is not as oppressive as IRP...Lucas, and they do have asphalt that they regularly run Auto-X on. They also have one of the nicest go-kart tracks I have ever raced on.

Summit Point or Pocono could be another place more convenient for the east coast. Pocono has road course and dragstrip.

-SP

[93STLTH]

I had no trouble finding the registration room. I even made it on time even though I thought I was still in the central time zone!

[Alan92RTTT]

We added the wed morning registration to the schedule based on the number of people that had not registered on Tuesday night. We really did not want to get up early enough to run a registration before the caravan but we had to because of the number of people that missed the scheduled time.

We had signs in the lobby pointing to the registration room and an updated schedule on the wall outside the door.

[Lori]

Speedy, you've been very critical of us all along, with few good words to say. While I appreciate your thoughts and criticisms, I also realize this was your first NG. Do you realize that the committee VOLUNTEERS all of the time necessary to pull this off? We also pay for our own registrations, events, gas, hotel rooms, and meals. So while you may complain about the registration times, maybe you should take a moment to look at our schedules and realize that I personally don't get to hang out with anyone because of it. At least not until Saturday night.

[Maximal]

We had signs in the lobby pointing to the registration room and an updated schedule on the wall outside the door.

Those came in very handy actually...I walked by it every time I went to the bathroom the night before so I knew for sure what time I had to be up the next morning. :lol:

[i3igpete]

you should take a moment to look at our schedules and realize that I personally don't get to hang out with anyone because of it.

I don't think he "gets" that while everyone else gets to relax and socialize, you guys are cooped up in that room telling people to sign forms. he should be very lucky that you took the time to wake up in the morning to help him register even though he was missed his designated registration time. Seeing that he's a tech inspector, he should know better. You miss the driver's meeting, you get to sit on the sideline the rest of the day.

[Show Killer]

How could you not know when/where to register? There were signs all over the hotel lobby pointing to the registration room.

[Slacker1357]

^ and about 50+ people outside willing to tell you where to go...

[Lori]

The people at the front desks were more than happy to help, too.

[vr440]

I think this year was the best so far other than some engine and suspension trouble that kept me from racing this was by far the best NG I have been to!
you are never going to please every one with location but this is by far the best place for the NG in Indy with Lori running things!!! Road course guys should like the chance to run the track every year the better you know the track the better times you should run. The drag strip did a good job this year.
Thanks Lori and Alan and the comity for all you do and will do for next year myself and midamericacustoms.com will be there.

[Zucchini]

Those came in very handy actually...I walked by it every time I went to the bathroom the night before so I knew for sure what time I had to be up the next morning. :lol:

It definitely helped to be right across the hall, but it was not hard to find if you asked ANYBODY... anybody at all. Ray Charles could have even found it.

[Geordon]

I firmly believe the numbers where much higher due to the promise of the Indy pace lap. I know that's why I went and I heard the same from a lot of others. Like most members we thought we'd be going around with the 1991 Stealth pace car, or at least be able to see it. The pace lap was the main draw but I sooo glad I was around for everything else too.

^This^ was true for me. My first time, and with the threat of being the last NG, I couldn't chance missing out completely. The 20 year anniversary of my car ownership was big, too. Every couple years, I wonder how much longer I will have the old Stealth. The week, as a whole, was still a positive enough experience, especially meeting other owners in person (Eric, Steve, Pete and Patti, Levi, Josh, Tom, Peggy, Melvin and the missus, just to name a few), that I am cautiously optimistic about attending the next one, though, I may be flying solo the second time around. However, all this talk about NG11 being the best one ever makes me nervous if NG12 can live up to expectations, especially, with the chairperson being selected at the last minute, as it was (jk, Lori). And, Eric, I think I was able to understand your French Canadian English just fine by the end of the week.

My drive may have only been 700 miles round trip (including the miles in Indy), but it was still the most miles and most time on the road I have put on this car in 20 years. I think I finally burned off another layer of carbon deposits, as it has a little smoother sound getting back into the daily drive to work. Don't know how I will ever wear down these brand new Carbotech XP-8 pads before the next event. Another thing I learned at the NG, is that I need to press the accelerator pedal a little harder. :)

[GreedyTurbo529]

Guess Ill get off my lazy bum and post something in this thread...

It was my first NG and to be honest, it was the best time Ive had in years. I met a lot of you guys, half I forgot. lol. But still awesome.

[Lori]

Geordon, I'll be honest and admit that I'm worried about meeting expectations, too!! But let me say this... This was our fifth year planning the event. With the exception of last year (and some things that were out of my control, although I'll always take the blame regardless), every year has gotten better. We learn, and we get better at running it. And every year I try to come up with new improvements and new surprises. I have something special in mind for next year, but first we need to find a track and a date. Just know that I strive to not disappoint. And while I'm a volunteer, I do my best to run the NG like a business and take my commitment to it very seriously. That's why you don't see me out partying with everyone until Saturday night. I HAVE to get up in the morning to make sure things run smoothly. When all is said and done, it's on my shoulders because I'm the chairperson. The workload isn't, but the responsibility is.

So no worries about next year. They just keep getting better and better. And frankly, most of that is because of the people who attend. Even last year was epic, despite the issues. Everyone made the best of bad situations. THAT is what makes this event what it is. Not me, and not the committee. Not even the track. It's simply the people.