Perpetual Courtship in ALMS

During my time in managing Yokohama’s motorsports program, I have learned one thing: it is always mating season on the ALMS paddock.

Some people wonder why we spend so much time at the track prior to a race that lasts only 2 hours and 45 minutes. I usually spend about three to four days at a particular race event. Why is that?

I believe this is quite unique to ALMS, where open competition is encouraged, and each competitor is trying to get ahead by hooking up with a partner that can bring about synergies to help propel them over the top. Kind of like finding a potential husband/wife, eh?

So, during the week, gigantic webs of conversations (read: speed dating) are held between team owners, drivers, tire manufacturers, chassis manufacturers, engine manufacturers, and so on. This happens in between all the test sessions, team meetings, qualifying, etc. When you string all these activities together, it is quite a busy week.

It is interesting to see this perpetual courtship happen in front of you, right in the open. I am blushing.

Already, people on the paddock are planning for the 2010 season and beyond. And we’re not even half-way thru the season yet! It must be all the high octane hydrocarbons in the air that puts us in an amorous mood.

And with any type of courtship, gossip surely follows. And let me tell you, paddock gossip is so juicy that should get TMZ seriously concerned! Perhaps IMSA should create a new show and have Jamie Sellers host the “Rumors and Gossip” corner just to keep the non-insider in the loop…lol. I'd watch it.