Races begin tomorrow, but the pilots were using today to qualify and to make some practice runs. The vendors were getting set up, and there are a lot of them.
I went over to check out the venue this morning, and noted that the sun needs to be considered when visiting. The entire system of race courses and viewing stands are beautifully engineered for the event, one can see everything that’s going on.
The first plane fired up at 0600 this morning, and they’ll be going until around 1730 tonight, which means there are always planes in the air to watch. Right now I’m watching the Patriots spin around the course, the crew of retired guys standing in for the Blue Angels. A lot of people are upset there isn’t the military presence this year, but I personally welcome the respite. I’ve seen way too many military displays to be impressed anymore. The pretty planes are much more fun to watch.
A lot of people are expected this weekend. I’ve got great parking and great access, and bought tickets for each day. If I want to go into the pit area I’ll have to shell out another $25 for a day pass. I declined the program for $20.