Mt. Washington observations

[Kent McLean]

Brett Dikeman wrote about his pictures:
> http://www.200q20v.com/~brett/pics/car/audi/washington_2001/

And there's a very, very nice panoramic shot of the corral. 
I'm guessing it's a full 180 degrees, but everything is in 
perspective, not like a fisheye. 

I'd also like to pass along my thanks to both the Royals and 
Millers for organizing the event. I enjoyed myself, as I 
expected, but my non-car-crazy girlfriend also had a good 
time.

For those who couldn't make it, here are my 
observations:

- Dinner at the Dana Place Inn was superb. Maybe 
  that's why the GF had a good time.

- Seeing all the different makes and models lined up
  in the corral made me just a wee bit envious. As I
  looked at each one, I thought, "Gee, that would 
  make a nice replacement for my 200TQ." Brett's
  black-on-black 200 20V, Paul's Avant, a silver
  Coupe, the blue S4 Avant, a brace of urQ's, your
  choice of three melange A6's (will that be the 
  5-speed or twin turbo?) ... heck, even a muted 
  gray 90 sedan was looking good. The non-car-person
  now wants a TT. Roadster. When we get rich.
  Amazing.

- We watched the first heat from the starting line.
  We stood about 25 feet from the road, and about 
  40 feet from the starting line. I was amazed at how 
  low key the event was, and that we could get so close 
  without a fence -- unless you call the nylon netting 
  on sticks protection. It was great watching the start. 
  You can see the driver's face and know how clean a 
  launch they got.

- For the 2nd heat, we moved up to the radar gun. 
  We could relax in our lounge chairs and watch the 
  action without the fence in the way. At this point, 
  they were hitting 50-70 mph. Again, I was amazed 
  at how close to the action you can get without a 
  safety barrier in the way.

- The only disappointment was the non-Audi win, but I 
  understand (from the Union Leader) that Sprongl 
  almost hit a corner worker on the way up.

- Although the forecast was for showers, the weather 
  was nearly perfect. Lots of clouds, a few sprinkles, 
  and some sun.  

- Next year we'll probably bring along a kid or two, 
  and move up the mountain. Maybe take in the 2nd 
  corner, or take the Stage up to one of the viewing 
  areas.

- Took Bear Notch Rd and the Kancamagus Highway home.
  Beautiful roads to end a great weekend. Much nicer
  than the ride through N. Conway.

- While cruising home on 93S, comfortably doing
  75mph in the right lane, I was passed by a red
  4K. He hit the horn as he passed. Judging from 
  the bandana covered head, I'd guess it was
  Brendan.

In all, another great Audi event.

Regards,
Kent McLean
'89 200 TQ Pearlescent white that is behaving itself again