The Infield Guru: March 2015

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

"Monte Carlo" (Cristo) Breakfast Sandwiches - Can You Say YUM!

Anybody can eat a bowl of cereal for breakfast while camping at NASCAR. But why not make some "Monte Carlo" (Cristo) Breakfast Sandwiches that EVERYONE will love? Can you say YUM!

What you need: (Makes approx. 8 sandwiches)

Easy to make "Monte Carlo" Breakfast Sandwiches.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

1 Package "Texas Toast" Bread (regular bread works too..but why?)
1 Package of Sliced Swiss Cheese (or your preference)
1 Dozen Eggs or Large Carton of Egg Mix
2 -3 Packages of Deli Meats (your preference, we used Ham & Turkey)
1 Bottle of Syrup
Butter & some Powdered Sugar
Disposable cooking tin
Paper Plate, Plastic Fork & Napkins

Set-up, making & Clean-up is SUPER EASY!
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Directions:

Pre-heat your grill or pan for cooking.
Mix eggs in a cooking tin.
Coat two slices of bread (both sides) in egg mix french toast style & place on grill.
Flip bread when nicely browned.
Add 2-4 slices of meat, top with Swiss cheese, Top with second slice of French Toast.

Add butter & syrup to preference, sprinkle with powdered sugar and they are ready to eat! This is a great way to make friends with your neighbors if you have any extras. ENJOY!

Ready to Eat! Enjoy!
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Your Camping Neighbors will
love any extras!
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

What are some things that YOU do to for meals in the NASCAR Infield?

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** ©2015 The Infield Guru. The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any specific track or driver. This article is for information & entertainment purposes only. There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any of the above items. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please contact the specific track or appropriate websites for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers. If the links fail to open for you, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.

Night of Destruction - No "Imaginary" Cautions for Debris!

What do you get when you when you put 30 cars on a 1/2 mile, dirt track with tractor tires, water barrels, boats and other obstacles? One crazy "Night of Destruction" with absolutely NO "imaginary" Cautions for Debris! Actually, No Cautions EVER!!

Perris Auto Speedway, in Perris, California held their Nights of Destruction #1 when local race enthusiast brought their "tricked out rides" for a racing event that had me and my wife laughing our asses off all night.

"Night of Destruction" cars & drivers showing off their rides pre-race.

As cool as they are, I recommend a tetanus shot just to LOOK at some of these cars! Cars prepped by their proud owners for an evening of Demo Cross, Figure 8's, Trailer Figure 8's and spectator racing.

The first of two main events was the 1/4 mile "Trailer Figure 8's" with simple rules:
1. The trailers had to stay attached to the vehicles until the end of the race
2. Items on the trailer did NOT have to remain on the trailer.

I'm pretty sure those were all the rules.

Trailers loaded with a variety of items that included boats, jet skis, mattresses, dining tables and chairs, couches and swimming pools hit the track for 12 laps of pure motorized "Figure 8" racing madness, as those items fell onto the track.

Figure 8 Trailer Racing lining up for the featured 20 lap race.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

You know it's redneck when the announcer says, "Whoa, they just DEMOLISHED that boat in the intersection!" OR "Look Out! There goes the jet ski!"

They second main event was 20 laps of 1/2 mile racing which rules included...well, there weren't any rules that I was aware of, except you just have to be in front at the checkered flag.

This event had 30 competitors racing around (or through) tractor tires, water barrels, boats and other assorted obstacles scattered around the track. Drivers unable to keep up with faster cars are not penalized, nor discouraged from going all out "Danica Patrick" on the leaders as they passed.

The more obstacles the better, tractor wheel, boats, water barrels & more.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Lining up for 20 laps of 1/2 mile dirt track Demo Cross racing .
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Just when you thought this was all for your amusement, you find out the drivers are competing for season long championship points, a big ass trophy and a check for $500 (presumably to repair or purchase a car for the next races).

This was a fun night of hilarity and recommend anyone who hasn't been to a "Night of Destruction" check out your local track and go!

Have you ever been to a demolition race or participated in one? Share your story and pictures with us here.

"You Just Got Passed by a Girl"
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

"HELLO KITTY"
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Hendrick Motor Sports has nothing on these teams.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

"The Wrecking Crew" team had several participants.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

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Jeff Gordon's Last Ride - "GO TO THE PITS"!!

Jeff Gordon heading to driver introductions
at the Auto Club 400, March 2015.

One of my favorite things to do when camping at NASCAR is to "GO TO THE PITS" with a
pre-race pit pass. I like to see what kind of cool
pictures I can get of the cars or drivers as they walk by.

If you have never taken the time, I highly recommend (at least once) you purchase a pit pass and check out the action for yourself. It offers a different perspective on the work that goes into preparing each car getting ready for qualifying, practices and the races.

A lot has been said over different media outlets regarding Jeff Gordon's last year in NASCAR. Whether you love him or hate him, his race accomplishments, championships and charitable contributions speak for themselves.

Each track this year have given him some nice "retirement" gifts and special tributes in honor of his racing at their facilities for many years.

Auto Club Speedway Tribute to Jeff Gordon on pit road wall, March 2015.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Bottom line, this could be the last chance to get those Jeff Gordon pictures or autographs you may have always wanted while he's still wearing his fire suit and racing the 24 car. Contact your local track to find out if they are offering any pit pass purchase incentives or other deals.

What are some of your favorite Jeff Gordon or other driver moments? Check out some photos below from the 2015 Auto Club 400 weekend.

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Team 24 Car Hauler enters Auto Club Speedway through the infield tunnel.
March 2015
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

24 car on display in the Team Chevy/ Fan Zone
at Auto Club Speedway, March 2015.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Jeff Gordon during practice at Auto Club Speedway, March 2015.
© Photo by Kerry Collins

Jeff Gordon photo display at Auto Club Speedway, March 2015.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Jeff Gordon answers fan questions at a Q & A hosted by
Auto Club Speedway, March 2011.
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

NASCAR Camping Pet Peeves at the "Porta Shower" Trailers

NASCAR infield camping weekends can be one of the most fun things you can do. However, several things can make a good weekend go bad
by a few inconsiderate "attendees".

Most tracks provide mobile "Porta Shower" trailers in several locations so campers can "get cleaned up". RVs have limited size fresh & black water tanks, while tent campers have nothing and rely on this resource more than most.

"Porta Kleen" Mobile Shower Trailers Staged at Las Vegas Motor Speedway 2015.

Let me state for the record that I am VERY grateful they have these showers at the track, and in NO WAY do I blame the Porta Shower operators or attendants.

SEVEN - "Porta Shower" NASCAR camping pet peeves:

1. As refreshing as it is to wash off the dirt, sweat and grime - "HELLO, this isn't a "Turkish Bath"! Why are people spending 30+ minutes taking a shower? Get in & Get out! Brush your hair & put your make-up on back at camp.

2. When you leave the showers, let the person next in line know which stall you just used. So in the event you closed the shower curtain, we DON'T look like pervs trying to see which stall you left empty. Better yet, just leave the shower curtain OPEN.

3. If you're told which shower stall is available, don't go to a different stall as someone else leaves, otherwise you could get a visitor by the next in line.

4. Take your filthy pube infested, slimy bar of soap, brown stained underwear and empty shampoo bottles with you. It's a shower, NOT a dumpster! Enough said!

Internet image, source unknown.

5. Snake the line in a direction that stays out of the way of a main path or intersection. Making others have to ask you to get by you is just rude. If the line is going through a main path, leave a big enough opening for people to get through. Common courtesy people!

6. If the showers are set up next to the bathrooms - Please DON'T wash you nasty head and face in the drinking fountain....That's just GROSS!

7. Wear shower shoes or flip flops! No one wants to stand in your disease infected foot puddles.

I don't even know why these things need to be said, but some camping "attendees" need to know what our pet peeves are, as I have witnessed each of the above while at NASCAR.

What are some of your NASCAR Infield camping pet peeves?

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The Freaking Delicious, "NASCAR Infield Cole Slaw Deli Sandwich"

It isn't NASCAR camping the infield without making some freaking delicious "NASCAR Infield Cole Slaw Deli Sandwiches". Yes it's a mouthful, but as soon as you try them that's all you'll want. Best of all they are super easy to make.

What you need:
(Makes approx. 8 sandwiches)

Here's what you need to create your NASCAR Infield Cole Slaw Deli Sandwich.

1 Package (8) Onion Roll Buns (regular work too, but make sure you get large buns)
2 Package of Sliced Cheese (whichever flavors you prefer)
1 Pound of Deli Cole Slaw
2 - 3 Packages of Deli Meats (again your preference)
1 Bottle of Creamy French Dressing or Russian Dressing if you can find it at your local grocer.
1 Package of Quart Size zip lock bags (smaller sandwich size just don't work)
Plastic Wrap
Napkins

Directions:

Lay out your onion rolls, spread the French Dressing on both top & bottom of the buns.
Add a couple tablespoons of Coleslaw to the tops of the buns.
Place a slice of Cheese to the bottom of each bun.
Add your meats on top of the cheese (we used 2 slices of Turkey, Ham, and Chicken)
Add another slice of Cheese to the meats.
Carefully place the top bun on on the bottom and your all set.

Packaging:

Wrap your sandwiches individually with plastic wrap. This holds them all together for you so they are not falling a part in the zip lock baggie making a mess. this also helps keep any water from getting into them if you are using a cooler with melting ice to keep them in.
Place them in a QUART size zip lock. You will find the sandwich size zip lock to small. If someone doesn't like Cole Slaw or a certain ingredient, you may also custom make them without and label the zip lock baggie with a sharpie.
Add a couple napkins in the sandwiches baggies.

Wrapping with Saran Cling wrap will keep them fresh, dry from
any melting ice in your coolers.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

They're now ready to eat. Whenever someone in your camp needs a quick snack between meals they can grab a freaking delicious "NASCAR Infield Cole Slaw Deli Sandwich".

What are some things that YOU do to get ready for meals in the NASCAR Infield?

Don't forget to SHARE this post with your friends and "LIKE" us on Facebook & to follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru or by clicking the links on the right. #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

It's Race Weekend - Prepping the RV

It's race weekend and time to get the RV ready for an unforgettable week at the track. It's a little different getting ready in Southern California than some of you in other areas of the country after a long winter.

I try to take my RV out once or twice a month year round, so it's fairly easy to get it out of storage, wash off the dust (when needed) and drive it to my house. "Storage?" you say. Yes! I live in a community with a Home Owner's Association that does not allow me to keep it parked or stored at my house. The earliest I can get it without violating rules and collecting fines is 48 hours.

Check with your HOA or local ordinance when parking / storing your RV.

Because of these restrictions, much of my planning and pre-staging for loading is done in the garage and/or dining room table. "Garage - Dining Room?" you ask. Yes! Most of us in Southern California do not have cool basements like the rest of the world! (One word, Earthquakes!)

I also live in an area that has been experiencing "severe drought" conditions that can make washing RV's a "finable offense" & receiving the distinct title of being a "water waster".

Here are 7 suggestions to help you get ready:

1. Prepare/ print off a list of items that you will need for the week. Most of us have gotten to the track only to discover that we forgot an important item. It REALLY sucks if it's something you swore you would never forget again. Especially your Site Pass & Race Tickets!

2. Many tracks offer only "DRY" camping with NO hook-ups. So be sure to top off your fresh water tanks to ensure you are set for the week. Water & Dumping services may be available at the track but can be expensive.

Most tracks only offer "DRY" camping & charge additional
fees for fresh water/dumping waste.

3. When loading your RV/Camper, be sure to test ALL the systems, batteries, engine fluids & tire air pressure regardless of whether you plan to use them or not. This may help you to avoid having to call AAA for a tow later.

4. While cleaning your rig, be wary of any "critters" that may have made your RV/ Camper their winter home. This can include anything from ants, mice and bees! If you do discover mice droppings be doubly sure to review item #3.

Using an RV wash bay can help save water.

5. Utilize an RV wash bay or use a hose with a shut off nozzle and bucket to reduce any unnecessary water waste. This is a great time to examine the roof and check for interior leaks. Although it doesn't rain in SOCAL very often, sun damage can occur to the exterior roof, and severe storms in other parts of the country can increase your chance of interior water damage.

6. If this is the first time out since winterizing your RV make sure you review your owner's manual and/or authorized dealer's recommendation so that you do not forget an item and unintentionally cause damage to any of your systems.

7. Some of you ONLY take your RACE BUS / RV out for the races, so don't forget to update your license plate tags and insurance cards if its been in storage since you last had it out.

What are some things that YOU do to get your RV for the races?

Don't forget to "LIKE" us on Facebook and following us on Twitter @InfieldGuru or by clicking the links on the right. #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

The Infield Guru

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

"Monte Carlo" (Cristo) Breakfast Sandwiches - Can You Say YUM!

Sunday, March 29, 2015

Night of Destruction - No "Imaginary" Cautions for Debris!

Friday, March 27, 2015

Jeff Gordon's Last Ride - "GO TO THE PITS"!!

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

NASCAR Camping Pet Peeves at the "Porta Shower" Trailers

The Freaking Delicious, "NASCAR Infield Cole Slaw Deli Sandwich"

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

It's Race Weekend - Prepping the RV