Jetta TDI Cup Selection Event Day 3 Wrap Up
Feb 9, 2010
Hello!
Just getting back from yet another eventful day after the 3rd and final day of the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Selection Event here at the exquisite Spring Mountain Motorsport Ranch in Pahrump, NV.
Jake Thompson and I rode out together for the 45 minute drive to the track. Went over a mountain ridge that had a nice accumulation of snow on the ground before we came back down to the valley where we discovered the race track. This place is like a country club much like Virginia International Raceway...a top notch facility.
The day, of course, began with breakfast which included some killer breakfast burritos along with some freshly cut fruit. And again, I washed it all down with a couple cups of coffee.
After chomping the grub, we attempted a track walk on the 1.5 mile version of the track. As we started walking, a nasty hail storm swept through the area and forced us to return to the tent to finish our walk on paper. The weather was looking pretty nasty and cold for the day but learned a good bit about the track from Jan Heylen, our chief driving instructor.
I was in group 1 which consisted of a bunch of returning drivers. Because of our previous experience in the Jetta TDI Cup cars, we were first out on track to allow the novices to observe.
The first session was wet and nasty. Track was green with a lot of standing water throughout the track. This first session was just a lead/follow with Jan Heylen out on track. Every driver spent two laps directly behind Jan to learn the proper racing line and braking points. It was pretty treacherous and Jan picked up the pace throughout the session. Even though it was wet, it was still nice to be back behind the wheel of these cars. I was driving the blue #21 Staubli car through out the day.
After everyone had a chance to get out on track, we had our first drivers debrief. A few of the instructors were out on course observing us and we were all able to gather a few pointers to improve upon for the next session. After this, we quickly went back out on track.
The second session for us was relatively dry. The rain was holding off and the decision was made to mount dry tires on the cars. Sweet! Brand new Pirelli slicks were installed and we were off for another 15 minute session. I was picking up more and more and Jake Thompson was right behind me and we were able to get in several clean and consistent laps. The data acquisition showed a best lap at a 1:22.5 with Jake running a 1:22.1.
Another debrief followed the session as well as the final cuts. Only 25 of the drivers would be chosen to compete in the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup. The suspense was building as we were all eating lunch in the hospitality area...which consisted of a caesar salad and seasoned chicken. Clark Campbell appeared with the list and started reading them off... “AJ Nealey.” Sweet! I made it in! I’ll be returning again to make another run at the championship and am super stoked! All of the other returning drivers who were at the event made it through as well as a boatload of very talented new drivers. Should make for a very exciting season.
After lunch, we all had two more sessions on track followed by debriefs as well. During the last session, we were also able to practice some standing starts in the cars. During both sessions, I was able to improve my lap times from a 1:21.4 down to a 1:20.9 which was one of the faster times of the day. I felt really comfortable out on this new track and with the cars. I think a lot of the mental preparation that I have been working on in the off season has really started to pay off. I was able to relax myself on track and be very consistent with my lines, braking points, etc. and pick up time throughout the day.
After the on track activities were completed, we all gathered back in the hospitality area and were awaiting the announcement of the highest placing karting qualifier who would receive their $45,000 entry fee for free. We sat around what felt like an hour. Then Clark Campbell reappeared. Again, the suspense was building...unfortunately, we were informed that it was too close to call! Apparently, there are quite a few drivers that are in the hunt to receive this prize and they want to make sure they go through all the data extensively so they can award this to the most deserving driver. I feel with my performance throughout the event, that I could be one of those drivers “in the hunt.” We just won’t know for some time.
None the less, I did the best that I could, and what ever happens, happens for the best! I’ve had a blast of a time out here in Las Vegas and it looks like I may be stuck out here for a couple more days. Another 20 inches of snow is hitting the Maryland region and my flight has already been cancelled...but I guess being stuck out here in Vegas isn’t so bad!
Again, I want to thank each and everyone of you for the tremendous support that I’ve received throughout my career. It’s like a broken record, but always remind myself of how fortunate I am to be in this position and it’s because of people like you! Also, a big congratulations to all of the new drivers who have made it in! We’re glad you can join us!
All the best and stay safe!
AJ Nealey
443-220-4019
Driving Sales and Building Relationships with AJ Nealey in the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup
