Good Afternoon From Iowa!
Good afternoon from a much warmer Iowa Speedway. While yesterday was quite pleasant here in the heartland, I was warned by many to not get used to it. They were right. Yesterday’s high temperature was 85°, but there was a nice breeze and low humidity. It wasn’t bad at all.
Today is noticeably warmer and the humidity is up also. It was very steamy as we rode the tram in from the parking lot. The projected high today is 91°, but the heat index is predicted to be over 100°.
The Indy NXT race for early this afternoon has been altered due to tire blistering in yesterday’s practice. The increased grip caused by the new pavement in the corners is causing too much heat in the tires. Therefore the race has been shortened to 55 laps and there will be a mandatory caution at Lap 15 for ten laps.
Last night we ate at Pizza Ranch, which is an Iowa-based chain, based on a recommendation from one of our racing friends. It was a buffet, which I usually tend to avoid. The pizza was so-so, but it was worth the trip for the fried chicken – which was outstanding!
Tonight, we will eat dinner at the track. It promises to be a late night, with the race and the Eric Church concert that follows. Luke Combs will play in between IndyCar qualifying at 2:45 pm CDT and the race at 7:00 pm CDT. Be aware that the command to start engines will be as soon as the race broadcast starts. Sunday will have a more legitimate pre-race show.
I will try to post between qualifying and the race, but no promises. I will have a quick and brief wrap-up after each race, and then my usual Random Thoughts for Monday.
We’re now going to go eat lunch. Please check out Susan’s article below, and please check back later today.
George Phillips
Oilpressure 
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