Welcome to Llihrednuht (Thunderhill backwards)

Here are some FAQs about running Llihrednuht (Thunderhill backwards).   Is this dangerous? Yes, of course.  All race tracks are dangerous.  If they weren’t they would be called “simulators.”  Thunderhill was designed to run both directions.  There are inherent dangers at every track, which also applies to Thunderhill, no matter which direction you run.  Always drive with caution and utilize proper safety gear.   Will there be different rules? The track management will make some modifications to the track to accommodate the clockwise direction.  The one that will be notable to all drivers is the extension of the pit wall from the starter stand down into turn one.  This will provide a way for drivers to enter the pit lane at a slower speed.  However, rather than using regular k-wall we will simply paint a white line on the track to signify k-wall.  If you cross that line exiting Turn 1, you will be penalized.  This also slows the cars in the exit of Turn 1 and provides some room for error (with penalty).  This is the only new driving rule.   What are the penalties? The penalty for crossing the pit line for HPDE and TT is handled the same as a spin; and counts as one strike.  For the race groups the Race Director will determine the penalty and will be reviewed at the driver’s meeting.  Note- grossly or flagrantly crossing the line will likely result in you sitting on the sidelines watching the other drivers do it properly.   How is a “line cross” determined? The starter is the official “line judge.”  However, just like passing under yellow and other violations, any official may bring this to our attention.  If someone witnesses a violation in HPDE or TT that was not reported, they should bring it up at the download meeting.   Which turns should be noted for extra caution? You should always use a reasonable amount of caution on all turns, at every track.  Running the usual direction there are turns (like Turn 8) that leave little room for error.  The same holds true for running clockwise.  Turn 8 still leaves little room for error.  Turn 1, as noted above, should be taken with some additional caution as to not cross the pit lane LINE on the ground (or you will be penalized).   Why are we running backwards? Because we can.  As mentioned before, the track was designed both directions.  Having run all of 1998 backwards (short course) and again in 2000 (full course), and again in 2007, we know the track is a lot of fun running clockwise.  In 2007 many, many drivers gave this track rave reviews!   What about the turn numbers? What about them?  There is no need to renumber the turns.  A little thinking outside the box and you will realize that there is no difference at all; you simply proceed Turn 15, then 14, and so on.  The first turn is “Turn 15.”  Nice and simple!   Where is the new start finish line? Excellent question.  The start finish line will remain the same.  The start tower has been before the start finish line.  Now it will be after it.  So all flags displayed from the start tower are effective as of the start / finish line (painted on the track).   How will pre-grid work? Pre-grid will be facing the opposite direction as normal.  Feed out into pitlane through the north ramp (closest to Turn 15).  Return to the paddock through the center ramp (do not use the ramp by the medical facility!).    Where will the green flag starts be displayed? Except for the start of the races, the green flag will fly at the start tower as usual.  For the races, we will have someone in the pitlane (elevated) near pit out (close to Turn 15) to wave the green flag(s) for the starts.   I am in Group 2, 3, 4, etc… can I get an instructor? Running backwards is new to almost everyone.  Few were around in the “good old days” when we ran it like that in 2000.  In any event, it’s no different than going to a brand new track for everyone.  That being said, Group 2 and higher level drivers have been signed off to be on their own.  That means that you should be able to go to a new track, work up to speed slowly, while you figure out a reasonably safe line.  It does not mean that an instructor cannot accelerate your learning, but that is not what our instructors are for.   Our instructors are there for Group 1 drivers, to go over the basics (applicable to any track); and to make sure you’re not some hot-head, nut job, or maniac lacking common sense.  Therefore, once they determine you are okay to be on your own (i.e. Groups 2 and up), you are free to take passengers.  You can even bring your own coach.     Thank you,   Jerry Kunzman Nor Cal Regional Director