Well, it started out quite beautifully in the pre-dawn sky…
Over 500 participants, from all over the world, gathered on the banks of the river Mississippi for the start of the famous “World’s Fastest Racing Series” (WFRS).
Hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash were on the line, along with a host of bragging rights. And for those fortunate enough to have qualified for the big race, the travel plans had already been made to take them to one of the most exciting sports events in North America (if not the world).
Unfortunately, the beautiful scenery couldn’t last long. As the sun rose above the trees, a thick blanket of smog settled over the park, quickly turning day into night. And with the sun came the bugs. Tired of waking up to warm showers, racers quickly found themselves battling the elements, as well as the other racers.
Despite the awful conditions, the spirit of competition remained strong. One racer after another charged down the track, battling it out for position and the win. But with the temperature rising and the rain setting in, even the most dedicated, determined racer wouldn’t have lasted long.
As evening fell and the last cars were being pulled off the track, the clouds finally began to clear, to reveal a stunning sunset and a beautifully decorated grandstand.
This was quite an eventful day for motorsport fans and participants alike. The conditions were challenging, to put it mildly. But with perseverance and some creativity, teams were able to get the cars on the track and battle it out to the end. And what a battle it was!
While this was a one-of-a-kind racing event, the organizers hope to make this a yearly affair, much like the Indianapolis 500. And you know what? They might just make it happen. With enough funding and cooperation from the federal government, states, and corporations, it’s definitely possible to make this happen. And that’s truly special.
So, what happened on Speedway Place today that was so special?
Well, it started out quite beautifully in the pre-dawn sky…
Over 500 participants, from all over the world, gathered on the banks of the river Mississippi for the start of the famous “World’s Fastest Racing Series” (WFRS).
Hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash were on the line, along with a host of bragging rights. And for those fortunate enough to have qualified for the big race, the travel plans had already been made to take them to one of the most exciting sports events in North America (if not the world).
Unfortunately, the beautiful scenery couldn’t last long. As the sun rose above the trees, a thick blanket of smog settled over the park, quickly turning day into night. And with the sun came the bugs. Tired of waking up to warm showers, racers quickly found themselves battling the elements, as well as the other racers.
Despite the awful conditions, the spirit of competition remained strong. One racer after another charged down the track, battling it out for position and the win. But with the temperature rising and the rain setting in, even the most dedicated, determined racer wouldn’t have lasted long.
As evening fell and the last cars were being pulled off the track, the clouds finally began to clear, to reveal a stunning sunset and a beautifully decorated grandstand.
This was quite an eventful day for motorsport fans and participants alike. The conditions were challenging, to put it mildly. But with perseverance and some creativity, teams were able to get the cars on the track and battle it out to the end. And what a battle it was!
While this was a one-of-a-kind racing event, the organizers hope to make this a yearly affair, much like the Indianapolis 500. And you know what? They might just make it happen. With enough funding and cooperation from the federal government, states, and corporations, it’s definitely possible to make this happen. And that’s truly special.
Why Is The WFRS Important?
Well, for decades now, the Indianapolis 500 has been the marquee event every May. And the WFRS is trying to live up to that. Trying to be the “World’s Fastest Racing Series.”
Yes, it’s a bit of a mouthful. But the name speaks for itself. With the 500 racing across the street, fans can attend one event and see cars from all over the world battling it out for position. And it’s not just about the fans. Lots of sponsors are attracted to this event too, as teams are often in need of funds. And what’s more, it’s an opportunity to showcase their products and services, in a way that few other events can match. (Including, probably, the Indy 500 itself).
In 2019, the series will consist of just four races, with the first one being on May 26.
There’s also an important educational element to the WFRS. The teams get the opportunity to compete against top drivers, from all over the world. Which means lots of lessons for the little ones, about the sport and where it comes from. In an age where so many students watch competitions on social media, the WFRS offers teachers the opportunity to bring history to life, through actual hands-on experiences. (History has never been so up close and personal, as it is now).
Not only does the WFRS offer important lessons for kids, it also provides an important platform for them to discover their passions. For decades, the Indy 500 has been held in May, which means lots of school holidays and a chance for kids to learn about vehicles and how they work. And while this is all important, it can also keep kids away from the things they love most. The WFRS offers an alternative. A chance to discover their passions, while also having fun and learning at the same time. The series even provides a way for fans to get kids interested in cars, through examples of real-life applications. As the popularity of motorsport continues to grow, with more people getting involved and more spectators attending events, the WFRS is doing its bit to keep the dream alive.
What Is The WFRS Car?
This is quite an important piece of kit for any motorsport fan. The “World’s Fastest Racing Series” uses something called a “combination vehicle.” Which is a cross between a buggy and a car. Essentially, it’s got two racing seats, in front of a tall, cylindrical, open-top section behind them. That’s where all the gears and the drivetrain live. (And a bit of the dashboard too).
This is fairly self-explanatory. Something you wouldn’t normally find in your average family sedan. Or even a classic sports car. This is more in line with a Grand Touring automobile. Such as a Ferrari or a Lamborghini. Or even a Maserati. All the bells and whistles, too. Air conditioning, CD player, power windows, power door locks. All of that, and more. (Probably).
Yes, quite a transformation. But the WFRS couldn’t get away with it literally. Due to regulations, only certain vehicles are acceptable for the series. And those are specifically designed for it. With some modifications, of course. (Anything goes, as long as it’s legal).
This is quite an important element of the WFRS, as it sets the tone for the entire event. From the moment the cars reach the starting line, until they cross it again, finishing line, fans will be able to sense the spirit of competition. The drivers will be going, ‘unrelenting’, full-tilt, speed ahead. With little to no holds barred. This is the type of racing that Indy car fans, and racing in general, live for. This is the type of racing that makes motorsport so special.
Yes, there will be a lot of differences between the cars and the drivers. But don’t be fooled. Under that sheet of metal and rubber, they’re all the same. On the inside, in fact.
What Equipment Do The Drivers Use?
Besides their usual racing gear, which consists of a helmet, a uniform, and a number, the drivers use several other unique items, to optimize their performance. (For instance, some use a snorkel, to keep their noses clear of the swirling dust, others use an exhaust pipe as a breathing tube).
But the most essential item, is the one that keeps them from becoming road kill. (Or, at least, slows them down considerably). That would be the safety equipment. (Plus their usual driver’s license).