NASCAR Track Scavenger Hunts?

Would you participate in a "NASCAR Track Scavenger Hunt" if your favorite track offered one with a chance to win cool prizes? 

#TGPLB Scavenger Hunt.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

I participated in the "Scavenger Hunt" hosted by the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach and Visit Long Beach visitor center that blended different aspects of the Grand Prix.  

Their “Scavenger Hunt” required participants to explore different areas of the city, several types of businesses, participate in different activities (“Roar in the Shore”, #MissTGPLB Pageant, “Walk of Fame Induction”) throughout the week, and interact with the race sponsors.

Roar in the Shore - Long Beach 2016.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

   

#MissTGPLB Pageant - 2016 Queen & Court.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

                                      

Motorsports Walk of Fame, Long Beach.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

They offered prizes and made completing interactive tasks that got progressively more difficult. 

For example the Robby Gordon Super Stadium Trucks were racing that weekend and one of the tasks was to get a “selfie”  in front of a SST (5 pts), a picture of Robby Gordon (10 pts), a picture of a truck airborne (20 pts).

#Selfie with a SST (5 pts)
  © Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Photo of Robby Gordon (10 pts)
    © Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Photo of a truck airborne (20 pts).
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

  
If NASCAR racing tracks offered a similar style “Scavenger Hunt” with a chances to win cool prizes, I think fans would get a better track experience.   

Getting fans out of their seats could reduce the number of complaints about the staff or track amenities, create an unforgettable NASCAR experience and get fans back year after year! 

If your track doesn’t offer something like this, it’s not difficult to create for you and your friends!  Here's an example of stuff to do . . . Have fun! 

Example "NASCAR Scavenger Hunt" ideas.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Would YOU participate in a NASCAR Track Scavenger Hunt?

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru & Instagram @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

**©2016 The Infield Guru.  The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any track or driver.  This article is for informational & entertainment purposes only.  There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any offers that may be shown above.  Prices subject to change without notice.  Please contact the specific track or appropriate website for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If any links fail to open, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.  If any links fail to open, check your pop-up blocking software.

© Photos By Paul Wilkinson

NASCAR Visits the BIG 'E' (USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) in 1996

CVN 65 "Cruise Book"
© Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Twenty years ago I was deployed with the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) to the Mediterranean/Arabian Gulf,  One of the best memories was when "NASCAR' made a visit to the ship as we returned from an arduous six month deployment.

Days onboard can become a continuous 'Ground Hog' day.  To have some fun, crew members will share their likes and hobbies to break-up the monotony each day.  

The "BIG 'E' NASCAR CLUB" was one of those groups.

Prior to our return to Norfolk, Virginia with permission from the ship's captain, the 'NASCAR CLUB' sent an invite to NASCAR to have drivers ride the ship during the last few days of this deployment during the "Tiger Cruise" portion which is when approved dependents and guests of crew members fly out to the ship and ride it back to the pier. 

NASCAR responded BIG.  

Just a couple days before our return to home port the ship received an aircraft with drivers from several racing leagues including;  Legend of NASCAR Bobby Allison, reigning cup "Rookie of the Year" Johnny Benson, NHRA Driver Jim Yates, NASCAR Winston Cup Driver Ted Musgrave, NASCAR Busch Series drivers Steve Grissom and Mike Wallace, NASCAR Craftsman Super Truck series driver Jimmy Hensley and 1996-97  NASCAR Busch Series Champion Randy Lajoie.

NASCAR Visits the "BIG E"
  © Photo by Paul Wilkinson

These guys didn't have to come out and spend time visiting and talking with members of the ships crew, they didn't have to sit signing autographs on their 1996 HERO cards for several hours, but they did! 

My hat is off to them and I wanted to take the time, although 20 years later to say THANK YOU for your generosity to our service men and women who had the pleasure of meeting you over the few days you spent with us!

 

Signed HERO card from the USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) NASCAR Visit.
 © Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Have you ever had a cool experience meeting your favorite NASCAR driver?  SHARE your story with us here.

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter & Instagram:  @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

**©2016 The Infield Guru.  The Infield Guru is not affiliated with and does not endorse any track or driver.  This article is for informational & entertainment purposes only.  There are no guarantees regarding the availability or quantities of any offers that may be shown above.  Prices subject to change without notice.  Please contact the specific track or appropriate website for more detailed information regarding limits and expiration of these offers.  If any links fail to open, check your pop-up blocking software or consider calling the tracks directly.

NASCAR Camp Cooking Ideas - "The Breakfast Skillet"

The cooking challenges while NASCAR camping are real!  It can stem from:

•  Storage / Cooler / Refrigerator Space.
• Number of guests. 
• Morning “illness” / Lack of motivation after a late night.

  

  © Photos by Paul Wilkinson

There is no reason to just have cereal, peanut butter & Jelly or Hotdogs/Burgers camping at NASCAR.

Do you want to be the hero of the day?  Try the “Breakfast Skillet” meal next time out:

What you'll need:

Medium to Large cast iron skillet

Butter

1 – 2 Onions

Unfrozen Shredded Hash Browns (“Simply Potatoes” brand sold at most stores.)

Cooked Bacon

Feta Cheese

6 - 8 Eggs

1 – 2 Tomatoes

Salt / Pepper

Shredded Cheese

Step By Step Easy Directions:

Ingredients are layered in the skillet to complete.

Start by adding butter to your cast iron skillet, next add sliced onions to cover the bottom.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Spread shredded hash browns over onions.  Cover hash browns with cooked crumbled bacon.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Sprinkle on a layer of feta cheese.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Add your eggs on top (yolk unbroken), Add sliced tomatoes.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Season with desired amount of salt & pepper.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Let cook for 5 – 10 minutes on more indirect heat to avoid burning bottom layers.

Top with shredded cheese.

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Cook for 10-15 more minutes on indirect heat.

Once your eggs look cooked through and top layered cheese is melted you are ready to eat.  Serve hot, watch that you don’t burn the roof of your mouth with the melted cheese.  Serves 4 – 6 people (depending on the size of your skillet).

© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

Caution:  Once you try this recipe – you will be expected to make this at least once your next time out!  Be prepared!

Enjoy!

What are some things you like to prepare for breakfast while camping at NASCAR?  SHARE your ideas with us here.

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

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

NASCAR on Road Courses = Boring? Or is It?

Actually attending a NASCAR race at a road course track will give you a different perspective you can't get from watching on TV.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

I had never been a fan of watching NASCAR road course races on TV.  Unless you’re familiar with the track, it can be difficult to follow, making the races = Boring!!!

1.     The twists & turns only let the TV crews follow one or two cars on the track at a time.

With so many turns it's difficult for the camera crews to effectively
 follow many cars on the track.  © Photos by Paul Wilkinson

2.     TV crews tend to only follow the lead cars and seem to ignore other actual racing going on.

3.     The constant changing cameras at every turn, every two seconds makes the broadcast feel so “choppy” -  Ugh, hate it!

Or IS it BORING?  Since I was able to go to Sonoma Raceway this year and experience my first road course NASCAR racing IN PERSON, I actually found it fascinating.

1.      I could see almost the entire track from my seating area.

2.      Using my Racing Electronics Scanner and headset it was nice to “hear” and “see” where ALL the cars were on the track, even with the varying pit strategies after the cars were strung out at different places on the track after a long green flag run.

With cars getting so strung out over the track from long green flag runs and pit strategies, scanners/headsets are a must in order to follow the action. 
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

3.     Although car speeds were much slower than you’d find on a super speedway oval, it sure didn’t look like they were driving slow.

Average speeds are much slower overall, but with cars taking corners at tops speeds make the racing look FAST and fun! 
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

With cars racing RAIN or SHINE, I was doing the rain dance hoping for some wet weather to see how these cars performed on their Goodyear racing rain tires.

I look forward to watching NASCAR in the rain to see how Goodyear's racing tires hold up.
 © Photos by Paul Wilkinson

With NASCAR racing at Watkins Glen International , the best suggestion I can make to anyone who is NOT a road course fan is . . . GO WATCH IT IN PERSON!  It’ll give you a new perspective on NASCAR road course race if you are not a fan.

What do you think of NASCAR racing on road courses?

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

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

RV Travel and NASCAR - Freeway Travel Apps

After completing a 1,200 mile round trip to Sonoma Raceway while towing a vehicle, I wanted to share with you THREE really cool smart phone apps and tips that are good during freeway travel.

1.     Using the “GasBuddy” App.

 

Finding a gas station with the best prices that allowed easy
in/out access for my RV and Tow Vehicle was important.© Photo By Paul Wilkinson

This app was helpful in finding the least expensive fuel.  It also informed us if there were more than one gas station coming up.  This gave us options with regards to the size of my RV and length of tow to select a location that was easy to get in and out.

Your debit/credit cards may limit the amount of fuel purchased at the pump.  On one occasion after I had reached my "limit", the price actually went down while I was standing there.

The price of fuel actually went down from when I started to fill my tank.
© Photo By Paul Wilkinson

2.      Using the “Maps” App.

Although it was helpful in getting us in the correct general direction and ultimately to our final destination, we found that having the "fastest route" or "show traffic" updates on would result in multiple options which would unexpectedly update those instructions.  Including those to randomly get on/off the freeway.

My stubbornness to get off the freeway when "told", actually saved us from "imaginary" detours and traffic.  

3.      Using the “Waze” App

Although I must admit I did NOT use this app for this trip, I have used it in the past.  This app shows other “Waze” users who input traffic, hazards and other road conditions that could affect your travel plans including potential police speed traps looking for out of state travelers.  

I am not the biggest fan of this app for several reasons;  unless you have someone with you to input potential traffic issues, you're basically texting while driving.  Also, the amount of data it uses and how quickly it drains your phone battery with continuous use in my opinion is somewhat excessive.

I am sure there are other helpful “Travel Apps” out there, so, what kind of “Travel Apps” do you use when on the road?

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

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

Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Breakfast Burrito

Do you prefer eggs & bacon over a bowl of cereal when camping at the track?  Try the “Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Breakfast Burrito”.  Easy to make and tastes great! 

What you need:

 

Prepare you list of ingredients for the "Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Breakfast Burrito"
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

·        1 Package of Bacon

·        4 – 6 Eggs (or 1 carton of Egg Beaters)

·        1 Packages Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Optional - can be made without cheese)

·        Other assorted ingredient toppings of your choice:  Chopped Ham, Mushrooms, Onions, Peppers, Sausage, etc . . .

·        Hash Brown Potatoes

·        Cooking Spray (PAM) or butter

·        Aluminum Foil/ Aluminum foil pan

·        Toothpicks

·        Cooking Tongs

Directions:

·        Weave the bacon together on a sheet of Aluminum foil.  Spray with PAM or butter to prevent it from sticking.  This is kind of a pain in the ass but will be the shell to hold your toppings together while cooking.

Hardest part is to get a good bacon weave to hold your toppings.
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

·        Prepare your toppings to your taste by chopping some Ham, Sasuage, peppers, onion or other veggies, etc…. 

·        Mix the Hash Brown Potatoes and Eggs together (using a small disposable aluminum pan works great).

Prepare your toppings. 
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

·        Spread a thin layer of the Egg/Hash Brown mix over the bacon weave.  If you make this layer too thick it may become difficult to roll and slow your cooking time.

·        Add your additional toppings.  You can add toppings to only half so when rolled will only be on one side of your creation.

Add your Egg/Hash Brown mix & additional toppings.
 © Photos by Paul Wilkinson

·        Wrap your “Burrito” using the Aluminum foil to ensure it is wrapped tightly.

·        Use tooth picks as needed to help hold your “Bacon Wrapped Burrito” together.

·        Place on grill until bacon is fully cooked. 

Tightly wrap your "Bacon Burrito around the toppings using the aluminum foil. 
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson

My small tailgate grill made it difficult to adjust the temperature for cooking, and the grates are very close to the flames, I kept it in the middle of the grill on a more indirect heat while cooking.   This took about 45 minutes to ensure it was properly cooked.

The foil gets HOT so be sure to have some cooking tongs to rotate your “Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Burrito” to prevent burning and to cook evenly.

Once it’s ready remove or open the aluminum foil, melt some cheese on top, make some toast, serve & Enjoy!  Serves 3 – 4 people.  (Don't forget to take out the toothpicks).

Melt some cheese on top!  Cut your servings with a sharp knife!  Enjoy!
© Photos by Paul Wilkinson 

What are some things you like to prepare for breakfast while camping at NASCAR?  SHARE your ideas with us here.

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

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

Wifey Meets her Favorite NASCAR Driver

Brian's "purple" #55 Car.

© Photo By Paul Wilkinson

As big of a NASCAR camping fan that I am, my wifey is nice enough to tolerate my obsession with it.

“Mrs. Infield Guru” attended her first races only two years ago at the Auto ClubSpeedway in Fontana.  I told her that in order to make the races more fun she should choose a driver to follow.

So she did what any normal non-obsessed woman might do – she picked the “purple” car, which so happened to be the Michael Waltrip Racing #55 with Brian Vickers.

After Brian’s medical issues this year, she remained faithful to her team and continues to follow the #55 car. 

Sonoma Raceway Pit Road 2015.
© Photo By Paul Wilkinson

At the races at Sonoma Raceway this year, she was able to go into the garage area with a Hot Pass and was able to get an autograph and pictures with her “new” driver David Ragan.

David Ragan, #55 Michael Waltrip Racing.
 © Photos By Paul Wilkinson

She’s still not a NASCAR junkie (I’m working on it) but she had a good time in the pits and garage areas before the races.

How did you pick your favorite NASCAR driver?

Don’t forget to “LIKE” us here and on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NascarInfieldCamping).  You can also follow me on Twitter @InfieldGuru.  #InfieldNation, #SeeYOUOnTheInfield

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