[Doug E]

Just wanted to share some news with my track brothers...

Good News: I'll be on a track this May 14th and 15th

Bad News: It won't be at Summit with my Dorki brothers

Great News: I'll be paying my respects to the P-car gods and our racing heritage while turning laps on the Nordschleife

Even though it is 3 months away I'm already bursting with anticipation of finally getting to the meca of all tracks ... the Nurburgring.

This trip has been something my Dad, Brother and I have talked about for a while now and it has finally all come together. Plane tickets have been purchased and I'll be flying out Friday night, meeting my Dad and Bro in Frankfurt on Sat morning and we plan on being at the track gate by 11 am.

The 2005 schedule has already been released so we'll have 2 1/2 days at the track. Between the 3 of us we'll have 2 cars (1 for touring and 1 for some track fun) but all we have to do now is nail down the track car (options include Opel, Lotus, 911 [$$$$] or MB). Lodging reservations have been made and are almost trackside.

My brother lives in Germany and has spent many weekends at the track with friends. I've lost count of how many laps he's turned there so between him and his friends I ought to have some pretty good instructors. I've already told him he better be taking roll call to see which of his friends will be there that weekend as I hope to catch a few laps riding shotgun in a GT2 or GT3

Monday night we are going to drive to Stuttgart so on Tuesday we'll tour the Factory and Museum. If time permits we also would like to visit the Mercedes Museum.

Unfortunately Wednesday morning I have to be on a plane heading back home.

I know it sounds like a quick trip but the last time the 3 of us traveled abroad for 4 days was to the Festival Of Speed in 2000. Those memories are still burning strong and I expect the same from this trip.

BTW, in case you are wondering I'm only planning on taking one carryon bag ... my helmet bag which will have the obvious plus driving gloves, driving shoes and a few pairs of shorts as something tells me I'm gonna need them

[cmartin]

Very cool Doug. Make sure you take some time for the museum, it was amazing in itself. I had a diesel 3er and it was a blast, not with a gas car....

[Jazzbass]

Wow. Sounds like a great trip. I'm jealous - I won't make it Europe until next year, and will spend all that time in F-car land. Somehow a vacation to the Porsche mecca won't fly as a "romantic getaway" with the wife. Have fun., and take lots of pics!

[BillJ]

Fantastic! Make sure you also make a quick stop at the dealership across the street from the factory. They apparently have a nice collection of vintage cars for public viewing!

Enjoy
Bill

[}{arlequin]

Damn! That sounds awesome! Makes my trip for the Monaco F1 race seem tame in comparison Although I'll get to check out the Cup race preceeding the main event.

...someday...someday

[Charlie Stylianos]

That sounds awesome, Doug!! Of course, many pictures and report are mandatory upon return.

Before you go I need to give you a little something off the SC to keep in your pocket while you are rounding the ring. At least a little piece can go back to its roots.

[Doug E]

Thanks fellas ... pictures and a full report will be available upon return.

Charlie - I was thinking that same thing. From my car it will probably be on of the broken head studs

[APKhaos]

Just in case anyone is wondering what Doug is going to be doing on his vacation, you might like to take a look at this quickish lap of the 'Ring.

IMHO, this video of Hans Stuck in a BMW M3 GTR might be the one of the most awe inspiring in-car views you will see. He is running on an open track day, and the way he sets up passes with amazing closing velocities is breathtaking. A master at work.

This is just for inspiration, and to keep you excited about the trip, Doug, OK?

[BobNovas]

That is an amazing video. The passing is frightening. Makes ya want to go over to the dark side.

[Lucky]

Holy sh*t!

I saw a lot of my driving skills in that video... that is in the slow moving, off-line cars H.S. blurred past. Freaking awesome driving & one scary fast track.

BTW, have a great time at the 'ring Doug!!!!