July
27, 2001
To
All Star FM Racers:
Sears
Point was a terrific event, with perfect weather throughout and a large field
of well-prepared Formula Mazdas. Jane Anderson’s story, along with results and
points standings, are attached.
It
was announced at Sears Point, and now here, that the Star Mazda Series “Supp
Regs” are amended, effective with the Portland event, to include a maximum limit
on carburetor pump rod overall length to be 59.5 mm. This measurement is nominal
in that a small tolerance will be granted for production variables due to the
top of the rod being braised to the arm which holds the spring and piston portion
of the mechanism. See Todd Cook’s explanation, attached, or check directly with
Todd if you are not certain your car is in compliance with the new regulation.
NOTE: New cars produced in the
last two years were delivered with 59.5 mm pump rods. Also, carburetors unmodified
beyond the increase from 48 mm to 50 mm as delivered, have the same operating
distance, or stroke, with the longer pump rods previously approved as with the
59.5 mm rod. Therefore, no performance or tuning differences should result from
going to the 59.5 mm rod, if you had previously used the longer one.
The
entry and latest schedule for the September
date at Mazda Raceway is enclosed. Please note: the Star Mazda North American Championship race now is set
for Sunday, just before the main event.
With
our announcement of the October
race at Mazda Raceway, we have already had a lot of new inquiries. We are again
enclosing a copy of the news release. We hope to include all Formula Mazda drivers
who wish to compete. Remember, the October race with C.A.R.T. will be sanctioned
by Professional Sports Car, same as all other North American Championship events.
Therefore, all the credentials required will be the same as at the events we
run with American Le Mans. There will be no test day scheduled. October with
C.A.R.T. is a three-day event.
We
expect the biggest problem will be paddock space. It may be necessary for those
who usually transport only one or two cars per race rig to “consolidate” with
a tractor/trailer that can accommodate at least five or six race cars. We will
keep you informed and try to minimize any inconvenience.
There
will be a new schedule of Speedvision play dates, to allow for the October Laguna
show, to be announced soon.
See
you at the races!
Sincerely,
Gary E. Rodrigues