Alex Palou’s “Magical” season

As we All know Alex’s favourite word Amazing, Righto?

 

Although must say I was tempted to go with Magic Carpet Ride, Magical Mystery Tour or Magic Bus for my title to this riveting No Fenders prose.

 

Every week Palou, and 26 other drivers get in the Queue. “Too much Magic Bus”. Thank you Cheep’ for getting me Here. “Too much Magic Bus”. Your being Watched by the other Team Owners Have No Fear. “too much magic Bus” No! You cannot buy it Zak Brown!

 

Thanks to Racer’s website redesign which isn’t conducive to screen readers! If Y’all haven’t noticed, I’ve sort of tuned-out from IndyCar, Sports Cars and Der Weurld de Motorsporten lately, Ja-Ja!

 

As I hadn’t even listened to any of Marshall Pruett’s podcasts in over a month’s time, i.e.; sometime before this year’s 24 Heurs du Mans. As its just plain wrong that its been over two months now without being able to read Racer’s website, but I digress. And yes, I have contacted them about this matter…

 

Returning to the “Fold”, I tuned into Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar July 15th podcast, and was entertained as always with Marshall’s insight. Not to mention enjoying His enthusiasm for the sport. Since after all He should be quite the Jaded Motorsports reporter by now.

 

According to Marshall there were only four drivers ever in the history of IndyCar to win seven or more races in a season, for which I beg to differ after briefly reading a Sportskeeda article.

 

Although I fell Afoul to trying to read the article too quickly, and mistakingly gave Mikey A’ an extra W’ and podium that year, initially…

 

As Marshall just enthused over how “Amazing” Palou’s season is this year, having claimed then seven of the season’s first twelve races prior to Toronto. As Marshall just laughed in giddy, astonishing are you Freakin’ kiddin’ me uproarious laughter!

 

Whilst a rare “Strategery” mistake saw Palou miss out upon possible victory Up North eh!

 

Leaving me wanting to know who the other three drivers were? As Marshall only divulged what I thought was the latest driver to do so, for which I saw win one of His eight races Wayback in 1994 at Portland International Raceway. As ’94 was the year that ‘lil Al and Team Penske decimated CART! As Al Unser Jr. won eight times including that year’s Indianapolis 500 with the “Unfair Advantage” of the “Stock Block” Mercedes. And Penske drivers finishing 1-2-3 overall, with a total of 12 wins out of 16 races! With Emmerson Fittipaldi winning once and Paul Tracy three times; finishing second and third respectively.

 

Of course I could only guess one other drivers name, being the first ever to accomplish this feat, which Y’all may be able to guess? But I’m getting ahead of myself since we’re going in reverse order, due to total number of wins in a single IndyCar season, i.e.; lowest to highest, according to Sportskeeda’s Five IndyCar Drivers with Most Wins in A Season.

 

I also saw the second most recent driver to accomplish this feat, ditto at Portland. Where I have to say that Mikey A’ was the scourge ‘O Portland since I was then a ‘lil Al fan…

 

Michael Andretti tied His father’s feat of winning eight races during His lone championship winning 1991 season. Claiming a total of 11 podiums and eight poles during the 17 race season.

 

As that tally doesn’t include His winning the Marlboro Challenge event at Laguna Seca from pole. Seeing Michael win a total of nine IndyCar races that season.

 

As I actually saw a quarter of both Al Unser Jr’s and Michael’s wins those two championship seasons. Having also attended the Molson Indy Vancouver races Up North Eh!

 

SuperMario’, nee Mario Andretti won nine races in 1969. Arguably His best IndyCar season due to winning that year’s Indianapolis 500 for Andy Granatelli in the legendary Brawer Hawk.

 

And then the top two of this very exclusive category are also tied with an unbelievable 10 wins in a single season. For which I’d Arse-sume Y’all would guess ‘Ol SuperTex’, nee Anthony Joseph Foyt Jr. Righto? But can you name the other driver?

 

Yep, Big Al’ tied Foyt’s record in 1970 aboard arguably one of the most beautiful liveries of All-time. Driving the Johnny Lightning Special PJ Colt of Vels Parnelli Jones Racing. Which included the first of Al Unser Snr’s eventual four Indianapolis 500 victories. Along with back-to-back Indy 500 wins in 1970-71.

 

While A.J. Foyt needs no introduction, arguably thee GOAT” (Greatest Of All Time) IndyCar drivers who naturally set the record first, and the bar ultra high! Winning ten times in 1964, including that year’s Indianapolis 500. Foyt won 10 of 13 races that season, with only three DNF’s due to mechanical failures.

 

Ah, I love Zed Intrawoods’, since when I Googled most IndyCar wins in a season a second time, naturally I got a completely different answer. With Autoweek proclaiming there’s actually nine drivers to have won seven IndyCar races in a season. As why wouldn’t we expect both Foyt and Mario Andretti to have accomplished this more than once in their stellar IndyCar careers, Eh?

 

As Foyt also claimed seven wins in 1975, while Mario captured eight wins back-to-back, between 1966-67.

 

And then Thars’ a proverbial logjam at drivers with eight wins in a season, for which we already know about ‘lil Al and Mikey A’. But how could I overlook le Hamburgular’, aka Sealmeister B’, aka SeaBass’ or simply Sebastien Bourdais? As the master of Champ car won eight times in the series final season of 2007. Which naturally I can say, once again I saw Him win at Portland that year much to my chagrin. Being a loyal Justin Big Unit’ Wilson fan!

 

And how could Marshall forget His Buddy “French Fry?” As I do miss those Pruett and Bourdais wacky weekend race videos…

 

Then naturally who would know that Tony Bettenhausen also claimed eight wins during the 1951 season? Giving us four drivers in this rarefied domain. Before Palou joined this club with another crushing victory at Laguna Seca. Leading 84 of 95 laps enroute to His third win in four years at Monterey!

 

While we have to go all the way back to over a decade ago to Gory 1922, when Jimmy Murphy won seven races that season, including that year’s Indianapolis 500 Mile International Sweepstakes race.

 

While I’d have to say that Murphy’s accomplishment is probably the most impressive, since some of these wins came upon the diabolical Board tracks of the Day!

 

As my foggy memory said that the long defunct Tacoma Speedway Board track was part of that year’s AAA National Championship. Which indeed, Murphy began the fourth ‘O July Montemarathon 250 from pole, with arch nemesis Tommy Milton winning the race.

 

Yet I love Pruett’s enthusiasm for what Alex Palou has done this season. Making me want to “See” Alex get to at least eight wins this year, Mission Accomplished! Which puts Him into very “Heady company. Although like Marshall says, I don’t feel Palou is one of the sport’s “Great” IndyCar Drivers yet! And certainly not in Scott Dixon territory, whom with the second most IndyCar titles and wins, doesn’t even make this list of nine drivers, Crikeys!

 

Nine IndyCar Legends with the Most Wins in a Single Season

 

Can Palou win His ninth race of the season at Portland, where He’s won twice before? As you’ve gotta love Alex’s attitude when interviewed in victory lane about going for more wins? For Sure He bluntly stated!

 

My witty Magic Carpet Ride lyrical “Ditty” was inspired by The Who’s 1968 Magic Bus song. Which No, you still cannot buy it Zak! 

Talking “Tech” with Tino Belli

Although the Dallara DW12 Ain’t going anywhere soon…

 

Back when I could easily read Racer’s website before the maligned Racer 2.0 launch of its graphically laden website on May  12th. Which doesn’t conform to WCAG 2.2 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, Urgh! Which reputedly Racer’s working to rectify. Although I’ve been holding my breath for several weeks now, eagerly awaiting its update, chirp-Chirp, Bueller?

 

As the website’s got other issues or bugs to iron out, which I doubt will happen, but I digress…

 

Marshall Pruett’s story Wayback’ in March regarding Tino Belli being called upon to “Beautify” the next generation Dallara IndyCar, has a very interesting podcast associated with it.

 

As Pruett spent nearly 90mins talking with Belli Wayback’ in 2018 after the introduction of the UAK 18, i.e.; Universal Aero Kit, which being unable to “See”, know it’s vastly superior to those dreaded, and thankfully forgotten about Chevy v Honda Aero Kit Wars of 2015-17.

 

As it’s a great interview worth listening too…

 

IndyCar turns to Tino Belli to enhance looks of next Chassis

 

Reading between the proverbial tea leaves, it sounded to Mwah that IndyCar is planning on sticking with just presenting a “warmed” over updated version of the current Dallara DW12 as the next generation IndyCar, with Belli leading the design of its aesthetics…

 

Yet we all know that on Friday of this year’s Road America IndyCar race weekend, IndyCar and IMS leader Doug Boles announced that IndyCar would be debuting the long awaited next generation chassis in 2028.

 

The racecar will once again be produced by Dallara, targeting to be 85-100lbs lighter. Which basically gets back to pre-Hybrid, Err Energy Recovery system (ERS) weight, since the ERS added an ungainly 100lbs to the DW12’s rear!

 

Xtrac, the current gearbox supplier will continue in this role, providing a new 25lbs lighter unit that shares components with the Indy NXT chassis, for those running in both series.

 

While current brake supplier Performance Friction Corporation (PFC) will continue as sole supplier of braking systems.

 

A new ergonomic cockpit will be utilized, including the integration of the Aeroscreen, which was an “Add-on” component to the current DW12 chassis.

 

On the power side, the new racecar will get the previously announced 2.4-litre V-6 twin turbocharged lumps’, ergo Internal Combustion Engine. (ICE) Replete with ERS, albeit the Hybrid unit will feature more power and improved performance…

 

As you’d like to Arse-sume this new “clean-sheet” chassis design will allow for better weight distribution, leading to better handling and better performance overall.

 

Track testing of the new Dallara chassis will commence in 2026, and then once again, all teams will have to buy brand new racecars for the 2028 IndyCar season, when the venerable 15yr old DW12 is finally retired! 

A Soothing Lullaby

Sure to induce Sleep in some of Yuhs…

 

Just a brief Jot’ as Grizzled F1 Journo Joe Saward would say. To let Y’all know that your Humble No Fenders scribe Tomaso’s On Holiday again, Groan!

 

Meaning Thar  won’t be any riveting recaps of the season’s first IndyCar race, since I’m busy pushing the P2P button Schlick! Having methodically poonded’ away some 26 No Fenders Blog stories for your dining pleasure, Err consumptions…

Hmm, perhaps that will give Colton Herta some No Fenders Mojo’ for Saint Pete, Eh?

Not to mention totally missing the Thailand MotoGP season opener. Along with there not being  any other mesmerizing No Fenders rants upon the latest ‘n greatest whatever, like I dunno?? But its always a goody thingy’ to push away from the All consuming Confuzer and keyboard. Especially when I get to visit a very special lap Hoond named Hang 10’ Hilo!

 

Although I’m Arse-suming that Mary Ellen will be able to furnish the St Pete IndyCar race via IndyCar Radio from Ye Apple Orchard…

 

As I’ll leave Y’all with the soothing, Eh? I said speak up sonny! Thars some darn blasted v-12 contraption making a Bloody racket in the background…

 

As the Aston Martin Valkyrie LMH-spec Hypercar makes its racing debut at Sebring this March 15th. And although its been out for awhile now. Like Marshall Pruett says on the Podcast. The exclusive in-car audio recording from the Valkyrie’s right hand sidepodon the High Banks of Daytona during testing should definitely leave a smile on your face! Not to mention some of the Heavy Hitters giggling afterwards.

 

So check it out, if you want to hear a proper ‘Ol school 6.5-litre normally aspirated glorious sounding V-12 motor getting a proper workout on Daytona’s 3.56-mile road course!

 

https://marshallpruettpodcast.com/podcast/mp-1569-aston-martin-valkyrie-amr-lmh-in-car-at-daytona/ 

Today marks 25 years since Greg Moore’s Death

As can it really, already be that long ago?

 

As stated above, today marks a quarter century since the loss of the prolific IndyCar racer Greg Moore, that fateful day at Fontana. Then known as California Speedway. For which I happened to be watching the race live, and can still recall His tumbling car and thinking that Ain’t good!

 

As here’s the wonderful 36mins video that Marshall Pruett cut with Moore’s compatriots Dario Franchitti, Paul Tracy, Max Papis, and the still unknown to Mwah Mark Zivvo five years ago. Which I highly recommend watching.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Arl_VOXJeAk

 

While Y’all may be interested in reading my previous nod to Moore five years ago in the No Fenders post below. As it’s hard to believe it’s now fifteen years ago when I visited the Greg Moore Gallery. For which I don’t even know if it still exists?

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2019/10/indycar-greg-moore-20-years-on.html

 

And as always, when I think of Greg Moore’s passing. I think of the totally overlooked and overshadowed Gonzalo Rodriguez. Who lost His life at Laguna Seca driving for Team Penske on September 11, 1999 at age 28. 

What’s really going On at Andretti Global?

Was this an ominous sign portraying Mikey A’s future IndyCar team ownership? (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Sing it Jimmy Morrison. “Keep your Eyes on the Road and Hands upon the Wheel!”

 

One of the two biggest IndyCar offseason stories (to date) has to be the bombshell dropped by Jay Penske’s Sportico on Friday, September 27th. Claiming that Michael Andretti had relinquished ownership control of His namesake Andretti Global racing operation, Say What!

 

Now I’m not gonna try connecting any dots, especially since I cannot “see” them! But this story, and the subsequent He said, She said back ‘n forth denial denials just make my head Hurt! Especially since I think my Tinfoil Hat’s aluminum is making the brim too small…

 

Although I must say I’m not buying the By gosh, Gee Wally pass me another glass ‘O lemonade sultry sweet AP Damage limitations article posted either! As seriously? You talk to Jenna Fryer of the AP before talking to your employees?

 

Naturally several thoughts have sprung to mind. As I’ll begin with how apropos this news breaking is in conjunction with this year’s impending United States Grand Prix at circuit Of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas this weekend, CoInky-dense?

 

As doesn’t it seem so quaint now? Recalling when Mikey A’ didn’t even have a notebook to carry His please sign this admittance slip in a hastily bought Miami Dolphins folder Wayback’ when. Y’all know when He was trying vainly to get the ten Formula 1 Team Principals to support His bid for an eleventh F1 team, which we All know how that’s gone, Righto! Which I believe only Zak Brown of McLaren and the former boss of Alpine signed.

 

Hmm, somehow I doubt we’ll hear anything about the ongoing Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust investigation over Liberty media and Formula One Management (FOM) categorically rejecting Andretti’s successful FIA Application to become Formula One’s eleventh F1 Constructor. Since the Fat Cats want an extra $400m as in millions thrown into their F1 prize delusion fund! Wanting the figure bumped to $600m regardless of the current legally binding Concorde agreement.

 

Listening to Marshall Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar October 2nd podcast, where Marshall spent almost the first 30mins on the subject. I came away feeling this is most definitely a power grab being made by Daniel Towriss! Who’s the CEO of Group 1001, an Insurance and Financial security firm based in Zionsville, Indiana.

 

Although Pruett notes that Towriss is essentially the “Point” man running the day-to-day operations of Andretti global. Having become Michael Andretti’s boss, Youch!

 

Towriss and His Group 1001 may actually report to Mark Walter, the CEO of Guggenheim Partners? A Global Investments firm with holdings of some $300-325 Billion, Youza! While Walter Himself is part owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chelsea Premiere Football team and the Womens Professional Hockey league.

 

Although I’ll confess I don’t know the exact “linkage” between Walter, Towriss and the Andretti Acquisition Corporation established in 2021 with an initial IPO of $250 million. Which seems specifically created for the creation of the proposed Andretti Global F1 Team.

 

Interestingly, a one Messer Zak Brown is one of it’s Shareholding Directors. Not to mention being a business partner with Michael Andretti…

 

Arse-suming Y’all know the back story over how Group 1001 thru it’s flagship Gainbridge brand initially funded Zach Veach for a three year drive at Andretti Autosport in 2018. Before Veach was jettisoned with three races remaining on His deal, with Andretti keeping the Gainbridge sponsorship.

 

Then Towriss (and Company) bought an ownership stake in Andretti, reportedly pouring in $250 million! To finance the building of the newly renamed Andretti Global operation’s expansion hopefully into Formula 1 and NASCAR. As they’ve got an “association” with Spire Motorsports. The acquisition of Wayne Taylor Racing and it’s Formula E, Extreme E and Supercars teams.

 

Along with the completion of it’s $200m, 400,000 square foot Taj Mahal facility in Fishers, Indiana, which resides on a sprawling 91 acres tract! And is slated for it’s Grand Opening on March 5, 2025, according to Marissa Andretti. Marco Andretti’s younger sister, who’s Vice President of Andretti Global, and Managing Director of Andretti Technologies.

 

As Pruett notes, He’s not worried over the IndyCar side of the operation going forward. Especially since two of it’s three entries are currently backed by Group 1001properties, i.e.; Gainbridge on Colton Herta’s No. 26, and Delaware Life on Marcus Ericsson’s No. 28. Although sponsorship of Kyle Kirkwood’s No. 27 is somewhat questionable next year.

 

And hopefully the team will remain in Indy NXT with its current four car operation. Ideally six entries, including it’s partnership with Cape Motorsports, albeit that may get trimmed back?

 

As everything just seems to circle back to the team’s F1 aspirations, and limiting the “unseemly” noise Michael and His Papa Mario have been making, even if they’re correct!

 

As it seems that a phrase I’ve become well accustomed with lately, that being the Straw that Broke the Camel’s back! Appears to be the FBI being called to investigate the alleged theft of (IP) Intellectual Property from Andretti to Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing by a former Andretti employee.

 

Is there total collusion going on in Formula 1, you bet! As recall how FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem who started this whole mess by opening up the F1 team application process. Has made a total U-turn, telling Andretti they should now buy an existing F1 team instead…

 

Yet I cannot help but wonder about how much money has been poured into establishing the 48,000 square foot Formula 1 base in Europe by Andretti Global. Saying they’re pressing on towards having an F1 chassis ready. Not to mention how much are the employees salaries? Along with operational costs, which I don’t know if that involves wind tunnel costs, etc.

 

As reportedly the FIA “wink-wink”, Liberty Media and FOM stance is that the door’s wide open for General Motors to join in 2028 with their flagship brand Cadillac being a Power Unit (PU) supplier.

 

And Marshall seems to hint that it appears that GM and Cadillac have decided they want to steer the F1 ship, presumably with a Cadillac Racing team circumventing Michael Andretti…

 

Thus as Geo. Phillips of Oilpressure fame said regarding this thorny subject. Get your popcorn ready! As I doubt we’ll ever know the true story behind this? Even though it sure seems like Michael Andretti’s been forced into early retirement, who’ll soon turn 62 years old.

 

Yet although nothing lasts for ever, especially life! I find it inconceivable that Mikey would have thrown in the towel when His burning desire is to become a Formula 1 team owner. And Yeah, I’ve read His “Open letter to Fans”. 

Vintage IndyCar’s Invade the Beach!

Mark Donahue’s winning 1972 Penske Sunoco #66 McLaren on display at IMS Hall of Fame museum. (The Tomaso Collection)

As I just wish I could Hear this amazing cacophony’s soundtrack of vintage Indy Cars live!

 

Ran across Marshall Pruett’s Racer article titled Great Cars from IndyCar’s past prepare to take to the Streets of Long Beach recently, and wondered what’s that all about, Eh?

 

The article details the this weekend’s Historic Motor Sports association (HMSA) running of 17 vintage Indy Cars from the past’s Glory Years…

 

As Marshall notes that the oldest is a 1966 AAR Eagle built by Dan Gurney’s All American Racers of nearby Santa Ana, California.

 

The car is owned by Rob Dyson of Dyson racing fame, and will be piloted by ‘lil Stevie Johnson’, aka Stefan Johansson.

 

Pruett also notes the variety of IndyCar chassis taking part include one of ‘Ol superTex’s’, nee A.J. foyt’s 1977 Coyote’s, having just finished it’s restoration. An ex-Sebastien Bourdais ’05 Lola and Mario Andretti’s former March 85C to mention just a few.

 

With the “newest” vintage IndyCar being an ex-Oriel “suitcase” Servia 2007 Panoz DP01 chassis.

 

But I have to say I’m most intrigued by the mount former IndyCar driver Tony Kanaan’s piloting this weekend, being from the McLaren Heritage Collection.

 

As TK’ will be behind the keyboard of Lone Star JR’s 1974 Indianapolis 500 winner. An McLaren M16 powered by the ubiquitous Offy’ lump’. With Pruett noting how these turbocharged inline four cylinder engines were routinely producing 1,000 Horsepower “Back in-the-Day!”

 

Which it’s hard to believe I scribbled the following two part No Fenders tome about McLaren at Indy Wayback’ in Gory Ought Eight!

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2008/07/mclaren-at-indy.html

 

Whilst Y’all can listen to another entertaining TK’ interview, with Kanaan discussing this adventure with Pruett on the following Podcast…

 

https://marshallpruett.podbean.com/e/mp-1509-the-week-in-indycar-with-tony-kanaan/

 

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find a current HMSA entry list for the weekend’s event, with their website still having last year’s Formula 1 cars listed instead…

 

As I’d hope that Bryan “High Speed Hurdles” Herta would be running His 1998 Laguna Seca winning Reynard 98i Ford/Cosworth chassis, that son Colton gave Him as a birthday present last year. Before the duo ran it prior to Laguna Seca’s IndyCar season finale last September.

 

As the HMSA grid will run 20 minute race sessions on both Saturday and Sunday, which should be worth the price of admission alone!

Update

During Friday’s first IndyCar practice session. IndyCar Radio Driver Analyst Davey Hamilton mentioned that the 1977 Coyote was actually a backup chassis that was never built originally! Whilst cannot remember if He said the restorer had the help of A.J. foyt enterprises or not? And that the restoration took four years to completely build the car from scratch.

 

Meanwhile, Y’all may enjoy Marshall Pruett’s brief Paddock video showing off a few of the vintage racecars below.

 

https://racer.com/2024/04/19/vintage-indycar-long-beach-paddock-tour/

Six wonderful Gil de Ferran remembrance Podcasts

A jubilant Roger Penske celebrates after Gil de Ferran scored Penske’s 100th IndyCar victory at the 2000 Bosch Spark Plug Grand Prix at Nazareth, PA. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

As Bravo Marshal, well Done!

 

Yeah I know, I know! It’s just over four months now since Gil de Ferran unexpectedly died at age 56. Which although I scribbled briefly about His untimely departure, I simply didn’t have any space to “Back-time” this particular story into Ye rotation. Especially since I’d already scheduled some 25, Uhm 26, Err 27 No Fenders posts in order to keep thy Blog’, as my late Awntie’ Harriet called it Alive.

 

Nope, No Young Frankenstein “It’s Alive” Jokes Here!

 

Thus, if you haven’t listened to any of Marshall Pruett’s six part interview with some of Gil de Ferran Friends tribute Podcasts. Or if you want to learn more about what made De Ferran such a great person, or the man behind the racing helmet. Then I highly recommend that you visit the Marshall Pruett Podcast website and search for the following episode.

 

MP1478 Remembering Gil de Ferran 1 with Scott Dixon

MP1477 Remembering Gil de Ferran 2 with Zak Brown

MP1476 Remembering Gil de Ferran 3 with Simon Pagenaud

MP1475 Remembering Gil de Ferran 4 with Tom German

MP1474 Remembering Gil de Ferran 5 with Justin Bell

MP1473 Remembering Gil de Ferran 6 with Dario franchitti

 

As they’re All great interviews highlighting Gil’s attributes as a person Off-track, i.e.; Family-man, Husband, Father, Team Owner and Oh Yeah, Championship winning race car driver!

 

Most weigh in around 30mins with the exception of Simon Pagenaud’s, who easily went for some 80mins with Symone’ just getting “Warmed Up!” As it was great hearing Pagenaud’s voice again! The first time since His Horrible accident at Mid-Ohio.

 

Although symone’s memories make me realize just how much I’ve missed over the years, even when perusing motor racing stories daily!

 

As Simon tells two great stories about His reverence for the great Ayrton Senna. For which somehow I never knew that Pagenaud, who back then was my second favourite IndyCar driver! Did a tribute Senna helmet commemorating the 20th Anniversary of Senna’s death in 2014.

 

With Simon debuting said tribute helmet with His three Brazilian “brothers”, i.e.; Gil de Ferran, Tony Kanaan and Helio Castroneves. While the second Senna story relates to the naming of their first son’s name…

 

Guessing that the only name of the six interviews that will be somewhat foreign to most, including myself is Tom German’s name. Who was Gil’s Championship winning race engineer at Penske. Including setting that amazing All-time closed course lap record of 241.428mph.

 

Which like Marshall says during one of the interviews, that’s an average of 241.428mph, meaning Gil was going faster some of the time, and slower in the corners, whilst averaging 240mph!

As I love German’s telling about De Ferran saying you’re a young guy, how are you gonna handle the pressure when the Pole is on the line? To which German was able to say, I’d do like last year when Scott Pruett won the Pole and you were second…

 

As All six issues have made me cry at some point during their interviews. As I think it was early in episode one, that made me realize I hadn’t been effected this hard by the death of a driver since the passing of my Numero Uno IndyCar Driver, the late Justin Wilson!

 

You can also find the podcast links to All six episodes in Marshall’s three page Racer article on remembering  Gil below.

 

https://racer.com/2024/01/06/gil-de-ferran-as-his-friends-remember-him/ 

Languid thoughts upon De Ferran and Indy Cars future

As 56 is way too early to die!

 

Nah, No April fools Jokes here upon No Fenders today Kiddoes! Other than the only Joke is that I’m posting this story just now, that I began scribbling upon the first weekend of January. When my, and countless others emotions were still raw over the untimely Death of Gil de Ferran at age 56!

 

Although I suppose in another bout of Tomfoolery’, Uhm, we’re a week removed from the Whose your Daddy Thermal Sweepstakes “All Star” event. For which I wasn’t certain Wayback’ in Gory January if I’d get a chance to watch it on Thy Telie? With whomever was providing my final respite ‘O Home Health Care recovery from my Open Heart surgery.

 

Although pretty G-Damn sure Nurse Catherine would give me Permission to do so! Which sorry Y’all, if you’re tiring of hearing me pontificate about this truly life changing experience; but Gil was younger than me.

 

As Gil’s Death was shocking enough just for it’s unexpected earliness. But hit me even harder due to my then awaiting Open Heart surgery and knowing the same could have happened to Mwah…

 

And since I’m still really not sure when I’ll return to thoust keyboard and Blogging in earnest. Therefore I’m trying to “pad” out some more time before resuming my normal Pre-surgery routine.

 

Look, I’m always Happy whenever IndyCar’s on-track, since it happens way too little during the year. Like can Y’all say El Stupidio 182 days Freakin’ Off-season!

 

And thus I had nothing against the Thermal Club event other then it simply seemed like another Gimmick from Day-1 of it’s announcement!

 

And Marshall Pruett had me laughing in stitches when sardonically mentioning that although the IndyCar press release said only the Top-5 finishers would be given prize money. The same press release went onto claim that positions 6-27 would each garner a cheque for $23,000. As Marshall wryly noted that He needed to finish P13, Brilliant!

 

Hence with the words All Star and The Thermal All Skate event occurring after only one IndyCar race. The word All Star made me think of the late gil de Feran once again!

 

Since like I previously scribbled here upon No Fenders. I’m guessing it must have been 2013? Since All I know it wasn’t the initial Legends Day Gala event of 2011, which had the largest trove of former IndyCar drivers in attendance. For which IMS Sherpa Carpets’ and I waited an hour or hour and a half? For me to get ‘lil Stevie Johnson’s, aka Stefan Johansson’s John Handcock!

 

Well at least I thought that was the one ‘n only time I briefly met De Ferran at Mother Speedway. Perhaps it was De Ferran’s line that was too long and we skipped it instead? Even though I swear I can still see His face and hear Him saying Hi to me…

 

Regardless, this reminded me of another De Ferran memory – that I know for certain happened…

 

As I’d been pestering thee Donald’, No-No-No! Not that Juan’, but Don Kay of Autosport Radio to see if He could procure me Symone’, nee Pageantry’, aka Simon Pagenaud’s John Hancock during an Autosport Radio Show interview some 15 years ago, Aye Karumba!

 

And in true De Ferran fashion. Not only did I get Simon’s autograph on a De Ferran Motorsports “Hero” card. But I got several! One each of Pagenaud and De Farran individually, along with the pair’s signatures together during their ALMS days…

 

Don’t need to recap how many times IndyCar shot itself in the foot last year! Other than as Marshall Pruett likes repeating sardonically upon His weekly Podcasts. According to IndyCar management – from the top down, beginning with The Captain, RP’ ergo Roger Penske Everything’s AWSM!

 

And although I’ve never worried before, naturally life’s taken on a whole new meaning to me…

 

In Geo. Phillips Christmas tidings Oilpressure post. Who’ll remain Ye Oldest IndyCar blogger to me! Even if George pointed out casually that The Pit Window’s Mike Silver is older than Him, but I digress…

 

George noted that this May will be fifteen years for His Blogsite, and at age 65, He doesn’t plan to be still blogging in another 15yrs at age 80.

 

This got me thinking that keeping that same thought-bubble’. That I’ve been poondin’ out stories nonstop here on No Fenders for over 17 years, and another 17 would get me to my 77th birthday! For which I have a hard time thinking I’ll still be blogging then also…

 

And I’d Arse-sume similar sentiments from Mike silver? Since that puts three current IndyCar bloggers already at or nearly Senior Citizens today! With I Kissed the Bricks Patty Nolan being 53 and the Field of 33’s Paul Dalbey is soon to turn “The King’s” number, ergo 43. While I have no idea what age For the Love of Indy’s Raymond Hamdoat is?

 

All of which makes me wonder if there are any IndyCar Bloggers currently under the age of 40 out Thar? Or are Blogs akin to Facebook? And just what the older generation gravitates towards?

 

As may be there’s young, savy “Digital Warriors” out there in IndyCar-land solely on Instagram? But being Blind, have I reminded Y’all lately? I Don’t do any of the social media stuff, especially Instagram, since obviously I cannot “See” it!

 

As the age old question is how does IndyCar excite and grow it’s next generation of Fans to replace us current Diehard, but aging Fanbase? And nope, No corny NXT jokes here! Even if everything’s AWSM!

 

As it seems that the best way to start this massive “C” Change would for Penske Entertainment and RP’ insert son Greg Penske into the “big chair”, ergo CEO now! With El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske becoming the Chairman, provided He didn’t keep Greg’s Hands tied behind His back decision-wise!

 

Since with many current IndyCar team owners being in their 60’s or older? Whilst I think the two youngest owners are Zak Brown and Riccardo Juncos currently. We don’t exactly have an infusion of age in the ownership ranks!

 

And being Captain McObvious. Without a younger, more vibrant Fanbase, it really won’t matter if IndyCar gets a new chassis, goes Hybrid, lands a third engine manufacturer, etc. Making me wonder if IndyCar will just keep plodding along before fading into obscurity sometime in the future?

 

As I’ve done my part supporting IndyCar for nearly four decades. And as Queen Danica would say. It’s Not my Fault that we had The Split and lost a generation of IndyCar Fans!

 

Which naturally made me think of Rush’s great song Between the Wheels!

 

Y’all know how that Rabbit feels going underneath your spinning wheels,

Windshield towards the Fly,

Time just passes you by,

Another lost Generation…

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cj1eUnNOvpY

 

Partial song lyrics from: Rush Between the Wheels; Grace Under Pressure, 1984 

Some brief IndyCar “Tech” Talk

As how come those darn Flinstones’ were Hard as Rocks?

 

Although I haven’t been reading Racer’s Mailbag lately. I did listen to Marshall Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar March 13th edition recently.

 

Regarding all of the reported grousing over the St Pete season opener being a Dud! Marshall pointed out one fact that seems to not be being discussed.

 

The current spec Dallara DW12 which ironically contested it’s 200th race at St Pete, is currenty 30-31 pounds lighter than it’s predecessor – due to the weight savings initiatives taken for the coming (Hybrid) Energy Recovery System (ERS) slated for this July.

 

Yet as Pruett sagely points out. Firestone had to make it’s tyres for the perceived debut of the DW12 with Hybrid technology at St Pete, where it was originally planned to debut. And thus Firestone has had to produce harder, longer lasting tyres that can withstand the added burden the ERS will place upon the rear tyres. Along with producing various 2024 rubber compounds for the first half of the year which now is non-hybrid.

 

Pruett notes how yes, it would have been nice to have added an additional ten laps to St Pete’s total, i.e.; 110 vs. 100 which would have given teams the option to run a three stop strategy. But we only had 100-laps and tyres that didn’t degrade quickly due to the perceived arrival of the DW12 with ERS. And so none of the drivers were overly enticed to take any daring overtaking risks. And hence, St Pete became processional, which has happened during more than one IndyCar race, or now weekly in Formula 1!

 

Perhaps IndyCar will revisit the upcoming race distances? But I wouldn’t hold your breath upon that!

 

As the teams will just need to adjust their set-ups and strategies, and presumably if Ganassi and Andretti can qualify further up the grid. Along with at least Christian Lundgaard for Bobby Rahal & Company. Along with Pato O’Ward and the McLaren Boyz’ continue Harrying the pack, then Team Penske should have plenty of competition to contend with… 

LE MANS: When Scandia Racing went to France

Hey Andy, watch out for that triple F1 World Champion!

 

Yeah, I’m still waylaying Y’all with Ye bevy ‘O Canned stories I scribbled before going on sabbatical here upon No Fenders, during my Open Heart surgery recovery. Thankfully now into week seven of said recovery!

 

Apparently I listened to this sometime in early June of last year, and just haven’t been able to find an appropriate “slot” for “Back-timing” it’s posting. Yet with the 12 Hours of Sebring this coming Saturday, and the Ferrari 333 SP being one of my All-time favourite Sports Car prototypes. Well, Yuhs get the drill, Righto?

 

As Scandia Racing was one of my former Home team racing outfits, and actually won Sebring twice in 1995 and 1997.

 

With team owner Andy Evans and a superb cast of supporting drivers, i.e.; Fermin Velez, Eric van de Poele and ‘lil Stevie Johnson’, aka Stefan Johansson taking the chequered flag at Sebring!

 

Buoyed with the evocative Ferrari 333 SP Stateside success in the newly formed IMSA Exxon World Sports Car Championship and Supreme GT series, (WSC) try saying that fast five times Y’all, Hya!

 

“Moneyman” and Team boss Evans opted to take His pair of Ferrari’s to Mecca for the 1996 24 Heurs du Mans. Which is where things get interesting…

 

As Marshall Pruett The Week in Sports Cars Podcast with former Scandia Racing Technical Director Jeff Brown is most enlightening. With Marshall prefacing the Le Mans experience by noting you won’t find them listed in the Box Score!

 

As the two cars, Nos. 17-18 oddly were entered under the banners of Racing for Belgium Team Scandia and Rocketsports, Inc.

 

As the No. 17 was naturally an All Belgium Drivers affair, with the two Eric’s, i.e.; Eric van de Poele, Eric Bachelart and Marc goossens at it’s controls.

 

Having recently scribbled here upon No Fenders about Bachelart’s Conquest Racing’s latest foray into IMSA GTD Competizione this year with a brand new, shiny Ferrari 296 GT3 no less, ironically contesting this week’s 12 Hours of Sebring…

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2023/11/another-ex-indycar-team-races-on.html

 

While the No. 18 Rocketsports entry featured Andy Evans, Fermin Velez and Yvan Muller behind it’s keyboard.

 

As the No. 17 entry faired far better than it’s Seester’ No. 18 entry. As Van de Poele set the races fastest lap before the Racing for Belgium entry retired on lap-208.

 

Whilst the No. 18 only lasted a scant 31-laps overall, before also being listed as DNF. (Did Not Finish)

 

As Brown’s Deadpan comment about telling Boss Andy Evans, you do know that’s Nelson Piquet is Priceless! After Evans outbrakes Himself on Lap-1 no less!

 

https://marshallpruett.podbean.com/e/mp14xx-the-week-in-sports-cars-le-mans-1996-team-scandia-ferrari-333-special-with-jeff-braun/

 

Whilst apparently the Ferrari 333 SP has rightly just been inducted into IMSA’s Hall of Fame, with it’s Bio’ written by Marshall Pruett…

 

https://www.imsahalloffame.com/drivers/ferrari-333-sp/#content 

The Tomaso files: Pondering Life’s Changes

No Fenders Head Scribe Tomaso poses with one of Florence’s maritime critters from the nearby Sea Lion Caves. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

“Time indeed in a Gypsy Caravan which will leave you stranded in Dreamland. And Distance is totally a long range filter.” As sing it Geddy!

 

Yeah, Arse-sumedly I’m still here Y’all, albeit still recovering from my very invasive Open Heart surgery!

 

Meaning I’m subjugating Yuhs to another of the plethora ‘O Canned stories I feverishly poonded’ out before going to Hospital. As I’ve just crossed the threshold of one month since having mechanical Heart valve replacement surgery Or even better yet, having received the Crossed flag for being Halfway through my recovery period!

 

As who would know that you cannot push, pull, liftor carry anything over 10lbs for eight weeks! And putting that into perspective that a gallon of milk weighs 8lbs. Whilst it’ll be two to three months before my sternum’s fully recovered, Yikes!

 

Hmm, what’s that ‘Ol Beatles song about Getting Better All the Time, Eh?

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGlo9LzmOME

 

As the genesis for this riveting No Fenders yarn came via another of Marshall Pruett’s enjoyable Podcasts. Where Marshall spoke with John Edwards, the racer, upon His trading one cockpit for another…

 

As it’s hard for me to believe that I actually saw Edwards racing for Gerry Forsthye’s Red Bull backed Toyota Atlantics team at Portland International Raceway Wayback’ in Gory 2007! Not to mention that John began racing professionally before He’d earned His “pedestrian(civilian) ” Drivers license!

 

As Edwards, now 32, pragmatically talks about His decision to step away from His Werk’s BMW drive with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing in favour of becoming a Aeroplane Pilot to support His Family.

 

Where Marshall points out the obvious. Telling Edwards do you realize how few racing drivers get to choose and go “Out” on their own terms?

 

https://marshallpruett.podbean.com/e/mp-1459-john-edwards-parks-driving-career-to-become-a-pilot/

 

And my learning of Edwards career change came whilst I was also pondering another’s career evolution. As Hoser’ Barry was the first to inform Mwah ofRush “Frontman” Geddy Lee’s latest book titled My F’ing Life!

 

As we debated the merits of Geddy’s singing voice, for which I still say sounded Horrible Wayback’ in the summer of 2015 when I last saw Rush performing during their 40th Anniversary tour at the Key Arena in Seattle, which forever will simply be known as the Coliseum to Mwah…

 

Next Barry informed me about Geddy having released at least two new songs. Most notably Gone, a Haunting, melodic tune obviously devoted to lost Bandmate Neil Pert, thee Rhythm Professor…

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jt2D2KoeuDo

 

As listening to Gone made me realize how long it’s been since I’ve listened to Rush, albeit sporadically pulling up an occasional old Rush album on Youtube over the years. But still, I realized it had  been eight years last winter since I was still devoted to Rush.

 

As it was good to hear Geddy’s signature voice sounding good once again, and having lowered His octive range. Since after all, Geddy’s 70 Freakin’ years old now!

 

And while the more times I listen to the song, the more I enjoy it, along with the range of emotions it can bring to me. I still come away feeling somewhat hollow, since it just doesn’t seem to quite have the same punch with Peart playing Drums upon it.

 

Also listened last December to a very enjoyable 38-plus minutes interview, minus it’s sound wonkiness on Youtube with Geddy Lee when scribblin’ this. Hmm, perhaps my issues with sound quality is akin  to Geddy professing He’s a perfectionist, eh?

 

But as I’ve said repeatedly before. Y’all know that Blind people have Super powers, Righto?

 

The interview’s titled Geddy Lee on my F’ing life, Rush and the story of Neil Peart’s audition.

 

Naturally the portion about Neil’s death was very powerful, touching and made me cry. With Geddy explaining how underappreciated Neil had felt on Rush’s final tour about how nobody praised His epic drum solo. To which Geddy said, who’d know, Eh?

 

Yet Geddy also briefly touches upon how living in the past can be dangerous, and how He’s ready to get on with His life and pursue His “Pet” projects. Arse-sumedly including recording His own, new music…

 

All of which left me circling back to what initially Haunted me after being told by my Heart surgeon that He thought I’d be a good candidate for mechanical Heart valve replacement surgery.

 

Asking Mary ellen why did I deserve to get a second chance? Upon learning what the odds of my surviving without treatment were.

 

Further learning that the British Medical Journal notes upon patient’s symptoms being diagnosed with severe Aortic stenosis. They have as low as 50% survival rate at two years, and only 20% at five years if not treated, Aye Karumba!

 

As we’ve All heard those prophetic words of make the best of your second chance, as we only get one life!

 And we’re “Only Immortal for a limited time!” So make the best of it.

 

For which although totally true, has always come across as a cliché to me. For which now I’m struggling over how to do this very thing being in the Autumnal chapter of life…