Editor Houlahan drove the FFR Roadster project down to Bradenton, FL to display the project and had some comments about the weekend. Read 'em all in the blog below
This past weekend was the first NMRA event of the season. Held in our "backyard" in Bradenton, FL, about 40 minutes from the office. With one look at the weather report I just knew it was going to be a great weeknd to drive the Roadster. Mid-70s, clear, with a light breeze. I packed a small overnight bag since I would be at the event for two days, threw a few extra cleaning cloths in the trunk, and headed to Bradenton.
The ride was great, with several horn honks and thumbs-up gestures. Rolling into Bradenton Motorsports Park I was tempted to pay for a bracket class entry and take the Roadster down the 1,320, but alas, I was here to work and some track time would have to wait for another day.
Friday was a little slow, but the Roadster still saw plenty of exposure in front of our subscription tent (photo above). Parked next to a sister magazine's Mustang project we'd have to say that the number of photos and questions was easily 10-to-1 in favor of our Tungsten Grey beauty. Sure the Mustang makes a bit more power, but it just didn't draw the people like our project did.
Friday night's stay in the local hotel had me a bit nervous, as this was the first time I had the Roadster anywhere over night, and with no top and no way to lock the car, let's just say it felt like the first time you had a baby sitter watch your kids. The front desk person said she'd keep an eye on it, and she also let me park it under the front entrance overhang, so I was relieved to see the Roadster sitting in the same place I parked it the night before, undisturbed.
Saturday was more of the same, with questions, photos, and "can we hear it" comments. I even ran out of FFR's promotional DVDs (I usually keep some in the trunk for those asking all the questions). After dinner Sat night it was time to point the Roadster north and head home. The hour and a half drive was my longest yet and the the Roadster ran flawlessly. With just me and the sidepipe rumble going down the road it was almost like therapy-car guy therapy that is. Man this thing is fun!
Here's looking forward to a great show and cruise season everyone!