Multi-State Group Cruise to FFR Open House on June 11th - Who's IN? [Archive]

Joe

02-12-2011, 01:32 PM

This is also posted on the FFCARS forum. I'll add details and names interested people to each site as plans progress. The names listed so far are FFCARS user names.

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I live in Burleson (N. Texas) and I plan on driving to Wareham, MA. to be at the Factory Five Open House on June 11th. Who else in interested in meeting up along the way and cruising to Wareham, MA. together? Once I know who all is interested I will put together a route/itinerary and post it for everyone. I expect that I will put together details that will include the route and each nightly motel/hotel stop along the way. I'd probably want to do 400-600 miles a day, depending on the route and weather. Notice, I mentioned WEATHER! I'm not a fan of driving in the rain, so the route could be altered or delayed if there's bad weather along the way. It could also cause us to get behind schedule which could cause us to drive more on some days to make up for lost time.

I'm not a huge fan of driving single file, mile after mile. As described in the motorcycle touring world, I believe in riding your own ride. In this case, I guess it will be driving your own ride, so we don't have to stay in single file. We will all likely have cell phones, so we can coordinate that way if some of us get separated along the way. The itinerary will make sure we all end up at the same location at the end of the day and for lunch if the group desires.

I'll leave it up to the group to decide if we want to head back West together, or if we will head different directions after June 11th.

So give me an idea of who all is interested and I'll get started putting something together. Also, if you're interested, PM your email address to me so that I can send out group email as the date approaches. You might also want to SUBSCRIBE to this thread.

I'm already looking forward to this!

EDIT: 02/15/11 - People that have expressed interest:

Joe - Burleson, Texas
AJuergens - Mobile, AL.
mydream - Canada (Trailering)
rscocca - New York
Pumpkin Racer - Wisconsin (Trailering)
TimC - Flowery Branch, Georgia
wayne65 - Lamar, Missouri
RButton - Ward, Arkansas
mike covey - Rockport, Texas
TD - Harrisburg, PA.

TimC

02-12-2011, 02:31 PM

Re-subscribing here. I just have to convince myself to do it.

Hotrod

02-14-2011, 03:03 AM

I am very interested I have been wanting to do something like this with my roadster for a while. I wont know my work schedule till its closer to know for sure if I can make it work. Dan

Joe

02-14-2011, 03:22 PM

I am very interested I have been wanting to do something like this with my roadster for a while. I wont know my work schedule till its closer to know for sure if I can make it work. Dan

Hope you can make it Dan, but work being a priority is understandable. Looks like there's a couple of others from your neck of the woods that are hoping to go too. I'll add you to the list and just let me know if you learn later that you won't be able to make it.

AJuergens

02-14-2011, 03:40 PM

Subscribed! Thanks Joe for getting the ball rolling.

Joe

02-15-2011, 06:43 PM

On April 1st. I will begin working on a route, based on the location of people that have expressed interest. I would ask that on April 1st., if you're on the list and don't think you can make it for whatever reason, please let me know. When I start laying out the route I will make it in a northeasterly direction, but will slightly deviate north or south to run it in the general direction of people who want to join the cruise.

As far as hotel selection goes, I'm shooting for decent places in the $100 per night range, but less would be better if I can find them. Once I know how many people are interested, I will try to work out a group discount at each of the hotels. The parking lots will not be secured locations, so I would recommend buying waterproof car covers if you don't already own one. I have parked many times in unsecured hotel parking lots and never had a problem while my car was covered. It's also not a bad idea to have a rain suit and umbrella handy too. :p

DMW

02-17-2011, 11:37 PM

I live in Massachusetts and have met a few guys on the way down to the open house. That drive with 15 Cobras going down the highway is the best part of the day. Very cool. Enjoy it.

Magnus

02-18-2011, 09:38 AM

Joe

02-19-2011, 11:44 AM

Having done this trip three times from MD to MA, please go way north of NYC. As tempting as it is to get stuck in NY traffic, with our big, belching engines, I think you'll have a much more enjoyable drive if you take I-87, for example.

The picture below is from last year's drive through NYC to Open House. We were 45 minutes in that bottle-neck to cross the bridge. And potholes to take out oil pans and trannys--fuggedaboudit.

Thanks Magnus. I expect that I probably won't be able to put together a route that will be all things to all people. Some people may want to split off and run into NYC, while others might want to run up north and check out Niagra Falls. I will probably just put together a route which will include final stops for the day and leave it up to individuals to decide what side trips they want to incorporate along the way. It's part of my "drive your own ride" philosophy. :)

Rscocca

02-19-2011, 07:13 PM

Joe-- I'm still in, took the beast out today for a little shake down, no leaks, no stalls, bases loaded, Also wife gave me the go ahead, (its out anniversary on the 12th) Love that lady.
Cheers,
Bob S.

Joe

02-23-2011, 10:35 AM

The Stig

03-02-2011, 06:55 PM

Joe

03-03-2011, 12:23 AM

Joe,

I may be in as well... As long as you guys don't mind having a GTM tag along. I'm still in the finishing up phase. Jeff Collins is mounting the body as we speak. Then the interior will go in. We'll see where we are then. If it shakes out well, my wife and I will make the trip.

You would be more than welcome to join in. Just tell you wife that at some point she's gonna have to get out of the car because I want a ride in the GTM! :)

Someday I Suppose

03-03-2011, 09:28 AM

Joe, looking forward to seeing the route. As you get up towards the city, if you take the route straight up 287 to 87 and then across 84 its a pretty nice drive and you will avoid a ton of traffic around NYC and 95 in Conn. If people want to go into NYC, its an easy jump off for sure, but heading north for the main route is the way to go. I had my body painted up in Connecticut and every time headed up that way and over, and I am sure its the route I will take to the open house this year.

_Scott

steno

03-03-2011, 10:35 AM

Looks like we got ourselves a CONVOY!
Sten

Magnus

03-06-2011, 10:28 PM

I noticed in the initial post that there is a reference to using cell phones to coordinate the ride in case people get separated. We tried that last year and it was a bit tricky because of hand-gearshift coordination, wind-buffeting, unfamiliarity with surroundings, short battery life.
Not saying you can't, just saying these are some considerations. Perhaps some system of texting or twittering everyone as a group might work where you can simply give a collection-point address and then we can key that into our GPSs. Or share the address via email, or something like that.

Joe

03-06-2011, 11:34 PM

Thanks Magnus.. It's not perfect, but it's just another tool. As I tell my wife, if I don't answer just leave a message and I'll call back at the next stop. I have a cell phone charger in the car, so I shouldn't have dead battery issues. I'm also looking at setting up real-time mapping/tracking using Latitude and my cell phone.

Magnus

03-07-2011, 12:12 AM

Could be cool to watch the map as we converge.

Rscocca

03-07-2011, 08:53 AM

I use these when driving the roadster, work great. I put it on my left ear and just talk.

http://www.vxicorp.com/products/blueparrott-bluetooth-mobile-solutions/bluetooth-headsets/b250-xt/

923

Joe

03-07-2011, 02:52 PM

I use these when driving the roadster, work great. I put it on my left ear and just talk.

http://www.vxicorp.com/products/blueparrott-bluetooth-mobile-solutions/bluetooth-headsets/b250-xt/

923

You're hired! Come on down here to start the trip. You will be the Communications Director for the trip! :)

Joe

03-07-2011, 03:01 PM

This is just a test to see if embedded maps will display on this forum.

EDIT: If someone can figure out how to get a Google Map to display on this forum, please PM me the instructions! Thanks!

<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=214754942961634112776. 00049ddda83009d9bb769&ll=32.510277,-97.254503&spn=0.01133,0.012312&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small>View <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=214754942961634112776. 00049ddda83009d9bb769&ll=32.510277,-97.254503&spn=0.01133,0.012312&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">Untitled</a> in a larger map</small>

Rscocca

03-07-2011, 03:35 PM

You're hired! Come on down here to start the trip. You will be the Communications Director for the trip! :)

Wow, now I have to tell the Mrs. I need to drive to Texas to drive to Mass. Sure, that will go over great. :)

timdks

03-22-2011, 05:19 PM

This is just a test to see if embedded maps will display on this forum.

EDIT: If someone can figure out how to get a Google Map to display on this forum, please PM me the instructions! Thanks!

Instead of trying to embed the HTML code, you might want to place a link to your map in a post, similar to what Geoff did for the '33 HR owners (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?370-33-Owners-Google-Map) on this thread.

Rscocca

03-22-2011, 05:34 PM

Already booked hotel, Marriott in Fairfield. About 20 miles away from FFR. I arrive there on the 10th. I plan on stopping to say hello to Mike Forte since I'm up there. looking forward to meeting some of you.

timdks

03-28-2011, 07:14 PM

This is just a test to see if embedded maps will display on this forum.

EDIT: If someone can figure out how to get a Google Map to display on this forum, please PM me the instructions! Thanks!

Joe, found instructions about embedding your map in a blog and tried to PM you as requested but got this response:

"Joe has chosen not to receive private messages or may not be allowed to receive private messages. Therefore you may not send your message to him/her."

I can send you a PM if your settings are changed to allow, or post the instructions on this thread. Let me know.

Joe

03-28-2011, 11:56 PM

Joe, found instructions about embedding your map in a blog and tried to PM you as requested but got this response:

"Joe has chosen not to receive private messages or may not be allowed to receive private messages. Therefore you may not send your message to him/her."

I can send you a PM if your settings are changed to allow, or post the instructions on this thread. Let me know.

Sorry, I don't know how that got turned off. In any event my PM function has been turned back on. Have you tried posting a map in a blog? I just checked and HTML is turned off in Blog posting too, which appears to keep the Google Maps from displaying.

timdks

03-29-2011, 06:35 AM

In any event my PM function has been turned back on.

Thanks for turning on that function Joe. PM has been sent. Good luck with posting your map. Great idea.

Joe

04-07-2011, 02:47 PM

Okay guys. Here is the route to the Open House in Wareham, MA., starting from my location in Burleson, TX.

Here are the details:

Tuesday, June 7th, 2001 - Burleson, TX. > Hot Springs, AR. (377 miles)
We need to leave the DFW area EARLY to beat the traffic. Please plan on leaving with full gas tanks from the IHOP, 908 North Burleson Boulevard, Burleson, TX 76028-2904, at 6:30AM. I will be there at 5:30AM for breakfast. The route will be very scenic and will take us on the Talimena Scenic Drive, through the Queen Wilimena State Park and the Ouachita National Forest. Although the mileage is low, this will involve plenty of pretty scenic driving and will get you warmed up for the next three days!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfxR4W433gs

Wednesday, June 8th, 2011 - Hot Springs, AR. > Louisville, KY. (571 miles)
The route takes us up though Memphis, Nashville and Bowling Green, KY. Depending on time, we could stop and check out the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. We have a lot of miles to cover this day, so we will need to eat a quick lunch along the way, especially if we want to stop at the museum for an hour or two.

Some Kentucky Cobra Club members are planning to meet us for dinner and socializing once we get to Louisville on Wednesday. There are also plans for them to join us on Thursday as we cruise east towards Lexington.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4fliDqr_5Q

Thursday, June 9th, 2011 - Louisville, KY. > Harrisburg, PA. (572 miles)
Routed though Kentucky, West Virgina, Maryland and up into Pennsylvania. Scenic countryside along the way.

Friday, June 10th, 2011 - Harrisburg, PA. > Raynham, MA. (425 miles)
The plans are to stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Raynham. Raynham is very near where the 'Burger King' caravan crowd takes off from to head to Factory Five Racing. It's about a 30 minute ride over to FFR on Saturday morning. Since it's a short day of driving, we should have extra time to socialize with Chevy Randy, Scarlett and the rest of the group that will be heading to FFR on Saturday morning.

Saturday, June 11th, 2011 - Raynham, MA. > Factory Five Racing (25 miles)

Just to get you in the mood. Here's "vintage" footage from the 2006 Open House! Give it time to load.

http://www.factoryfive.com/table/showevent/ffropen/ffropen06/videos/ffropenhouse.wmv

If anyone knows of a major problem or issue with this route this, please let me know ASAP. I'm going to start working on hotel locations in Hot Springs, AR., Louisville, KY., and Harrisburg, PA. very soon.

As I previously mentioned, nothing says we all have to drive together each day. For example, some people might want to take a longer more scenic route on some days. This route uses Interstate Highways most of the way and it will still take us 4 days to make the trip. I could have designed a slower, more scenic route, but I'm not so sure that everyone would be interested in spending more hours in the car each day.

http://www.ffcars.com/photopost/data/551/OPENHOUSE2011.jpg

Joe

04-14-2011, 06:53 PM

This post will be updated as Hotel Details become available.

June 7th - Hot Springs, AR.

Red Roof Inn - Hot Springs
1125 East Grand Avenue
Hot Springs, AR 71901
501-624-3321

Tell them you're with the "Cobra Car Club." They will "try" to put us together in down stairs, King, non-smoking rooms, $59.99.

Trip Advisor gives it decent reviews. Recent Remodel. Red Roof Inn Hot Springs is newly renovated in 2010 and offers an upscale room at a great price. It is located at the foot of the Hot Springs National Park & Mountain Tower Hiking Trails. This hotel is conveniently located ½ mile from the Hot Springs Convention Center and only 1 mile from Magic Springs and Crystal Falls. May be able to park directly in front of room if you book soon.

http://www.redroof.com/reservations/property-detail.aspx?pid=00736

June 8th - Louisville, KY.

AJuergens did the legwork for this location and decided on the Louisville, KY. Red Roof Inn. The Kentucky Cobra Club is expecting us! Some of them may be meeting us for dinner and then driving with us (running us out of town :) ) to Lexington, KY on the morning of June 9th.

Red Roof Inn
Louisville East - Hurstbourne
9330 Blairwood Road
Louisville, KY 40222
(502) 426-7621

http://www.redroof.com/reservations/property-detail.aspx?pid=34

rooms are $54.99 a night for a one bed room non smoking. this does not include the 10% people will get off for AAA.

June 9th - Harrisburg, PA.

Park Inn
5401 Carlise Pike
Mecanicsburg, PA.

If you need a room send me a PM and I will provide info to get a room for $79.00 for the night.

http://www.parkinn.com/hotel-harrisburgwestpa

June 10th - Raynham, MA.

Courtyard by Marriott - Raynham, MA
37 Paramount Drive,Route 44
Raynham, Massachusetts 02767 USA
508-822-8383

I don't have any special deal at this time with this hotel. Use your AAA, Senior Discount, etc.

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/trave...oston-raynham/

Joe

04-20-2011, 10:12 PM

A new post just to get the attention of anyone participating. All of the hotel info has been completed and posted. See the above post.

t d

04-20-2011, 10:52 PM

Subscribing. See you in Pa. Joe.

Joe

06-06-2011, 12:44 AM

This will be the link to a BLOG page that will hosting the real-time map that will track our progress as we drive to Wareham, MA. and beyond.

http://www.cobratrip2011.blogspot.com/

timdks

06-06-2011, 05:55 AM

Should be a great adventure. You and your team have done a lot of planning to pull all of this together. Sorry I won't make it this year (just got the engine in), but hopefully you, or someone else, will organize such a trip next year. Assuming you'll let a guy with a '33 HR tag along.

I'll be following your blog as you head out tomorrow. Hope you include a lot of pictures and video so those not going can enjoy it vicariously.

Joe

06-07-2011, 07:23 PM

Would love to have a 33 tag along, but you would have to ride in back! :) Just kidding..

Made it to Hot Springs, AR. safe and sound. The last half of the day was REAL hot. Hopefully tomorrow will be a little cooler!

Just met Wayne65 and his wife, very nice people. Looking forward to tomorrow!

Shower - CHECK

Dinner - CHECK

Car Cleaned and covered - CHECK

Now, time to watch some Mavericks kick some Heat butt! Go Mavs!

Should be a great adventure. You and your team have done a lot of planning to pull all of this together. Sorry I won't make it this year (just got the engine in), but hopefully you, or someone else, will organize such a trip next year. Assuming you'll let a guy with a '33 HR tag along.

I'll be following your blog as you head out tomorrow. Hope you include a lot of pictures and video so those not going can enjoy it vicariously.

R. Button

06-08-2011, 12:13 AM

Watch your rear view mirror as you may see a blue one coming up behind you soon! Not leaving till very early Thursday AM BUT will put a lot of miles down in a couple of days.
Like your idea, Joe, of using some of this new technology to show tracking info! Keeps the wife updated on progress etc!
Will see if I can get it going too, so you can know how soon we'll catchup! ;)

Drive safe and enjoy the trip, Joe, see ya soon!

timdks

06-08-2011, 10:04 AM

Would love to have a 33 tag along, but you would have to ride in back! :) Just kidding.

Tagging along would be fun. What do they say about saving the best for last? ;)

Enjoyed watching you move through the back roads to Hot Springs. Love the tracking technology. What system are you using? My son uses Spot on his motorcycle and it is always fun watching his adventures.

Are you still planning on a stop at the Corvette Museum?

Joe

06-08-2011, 10:05 PM

We ran out of time and couldn't stop at the museum. We had a date scheduled with some Kentucky Cobra Club members for dinner so we had to press on. KCC showed us a great time. Great burger place and then more fun times in the hotel parking lot, doing a little tire kicking, war stories and various libations!

The tracking system is Google Latitude, available with Android phones. I wish there was a way I could post a map that you could zoom in/out, but it doesn't seem to work like that.

Well it looks like we might be dodging rain storms tomorrow. We're going to put in 300 miles in the morning and eat lunch at my Mom's in Friendly, WV. I think she's been cooking for two days. lol.. Then from Friendly, WV. we'll doing another 300 miles and end up in Harrisburg, PA.

Tagging along would be fun. What do they say about saving the best for last? ;)

Enjoyed watching you move through the back roads to Hot Springs. Love the tracking technology. What system are you using? My son uses Spot on his motorcycle and it is always fun watching his adventures.

Are you still planning on a stop at the Corvette Museum?

Joe

06-08-2011, 10:07 PM

I'll be watching! Are you going to make it to Harrisburg, PA. Thursday night?

Watch your rear view mirror as you may see a blue one coming up behind you soon! Not leaving till very early Thursday AM BUT will put a lot of miles down in a couple of days.
Like your idea, Joe, of using some of this new technology to show tracking info! Keeps the wife updated on progress etc!
Will see if I can get it going too, so you can know how soon we'll catchup! ;)

Drive safe and enjoy the trip, Joe, see ya soon!

R. Button

06-08-2011, 11:37 PM

Joe, if we leave here as early as I hope, I expect we'll be in Eastern PA or New York area by Thursday Night.

Joe had a great idea to add GPS tracking to the trip!! So here goes my try at a GPS tracing system. I looked at Google Latitude and was going to try it but came up with a different one.

http://rbutton.com/openhouse.htm should show the track as we leave the house tomorrow am
The map should be able to zoom in and out as well as move around on it.

R. Button

06-09-2011, 09:17 AM

The only GPS track I have is the current one to the ER at the medical center started at 3:30AM as I followed the ambulance.

Dave Smith

06-09-2011, 09:37 AM

Ralph,

Shoot! I thought all was good with your wife. All our thoughts and prayers are with you man. Take care.

R. Button

06-09-2011, 09:17 PM

Sorry all... we were loaded up, car all prepped - new tires, new older style soft top installed, improved lighting, even the traveling foods were in place! All I had to do was start it up, roll out of here at 5am, after the wife - who had already spent a few days at the hospital - said she was fine and to get out of the house for a road trip... when at 3'ish in the morning Jake has a seizure brought on by a temp of 106. Wife is a light sleeper, heard it and went to work on Jake, ambulance was called, Jake got an ambulance ride to the hospital where he still is now as they figure out what is the problem. I will not be at the Open House after all!
http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/images/misc/pencil.png

Joe

06-09-2011, 11:17 PM

Ralph, sorry to hear the news. I hope everything turns out okay. Prayers from Harrisburg, PA.

Joe --

The only GPS track I have is the current one to the ER at the medical center started at 3:30AM as I followed the ambulance.

LuckyWinner

06-10-2011, 03:24 AM

In the picture taken in the parking lot, whos silver gray Roadster is up front with the 15" wheels?

Dave Smith

06-10-2011, 04:38 AM

No worries Ralph on this end, just thoughts and prayers for you guys and especially for Jake. We will think of you tomorrow and you'll be with us in spirit. Its been a long road we've traveled together and there are many miles ahead, just not this time. Take it easy and let us know how things are going.

Jeff Kleiner

06-10-2011, 06:20 AM

Thoughts and prayers are with Jake for a quick recovery and speedy return to home.

Don't worry Ralph, although Joe is trying hard to catch you on miles I think you're still safely in the lead!

All my best,
Jeff

Joe

06-10-2011, 09:10 PM

The Texas / Missouri / Alabama group finally made up to Mass! Here are a few photos from along the way.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4474.jpg

Al Jurgeans cruising in his recently finished MK4 (drove up from Mobile, AL.)

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4475.jpg

Wayne and Sandy Covey living large up the FFR soft top. They were secretly hoping that it would rain.... on the non-soft top cars... or maybe just ME! :)

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4470.jpg

The group took a lunch break at my Mom's house in Friendly, W.V. Burgers, spareribs, baked beans, potato salad, etc.. Thanks for everything Mom! It was greatly appreciated. The "Reptile Pit Stop" signs at the street was a nice touch!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4466.jpg

One of the Kentucky Cobra Club members owns one of the nicest Coupes I have ever seen. SPECTACULAR doesn't do it justice.

Joe

06-10-2011, 09:20 PM

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4479.jpg

The group unwinding after a great day of driving. My cousin Chris from Washinton D.C. surprised me by tracking us down on the highway. An hour out of Harrisburg he texted me, "look behind you!" That Google Latitude map works pretty good!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4478.jpg

Wayne and Patty in their MK2 from Missouri putting some miles down. They joined the group in Louisville, KY.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4463.jpg

Some of the Open House Group with some of the Kentucky Cobra Club members that met us at the hotel in Harrisburg, PA. They rolled out the carpet for us and took us to a great burger restaurant. Afterwards the treated us to a social hour in the parking lot of the hotel. Thanks Juan and everyone else!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4457.jpg

Mike Covey recovering after a long hot day in the car. They got caught in a long 2-3 hour traffic jam prior to meeting up with the Open House Group..

Joe

06-10-2011, 09:22 PM

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4458.jpg

My car cooling down next to Wayne65's car.

Joe

06-10-2011, 09:29 PM

I thought this was kind of cool. Links to some more photos.

http://www.kentuckycobraclub.com/node/1323

Joe

06-10-2011, 09:46 PM

In the picture taken in the parking lot, whos silver gray Roadster is up front with the 15" wheels?

Sorry, exactly which photo are you talking about?

timdks

06-11-2011, 07:38 AM

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4479.jpg

So Joe, who are the people in the picture from where do they hale, other than the waitress?

Joe

06-12-2011, 07:02 AM

So Joe, who are the people in the picture from where do they hale, other than the waitress?

Closest to the camera is mike covey (Rockport, TX.), and then around to the right is his wife Sandy, then Al Jurgeans (Mobile, AL) in blue shirt, then Wayne65 (Missouri) and his wife Patty and the person on the left side of Mike Covey is my cousin Chris who came to Harrisburg, PA. and met us. He lives near Washington D.C.

Joe

06-12-2011, 07:02 AM

Rain, rain go AWAY! We had a great time at the Open House. I got to put some faces to some names on here. It was great meeting everyone. NOW, if the rain would just go away. I was suppose to already be in New Hampshire and was wanting to be driving into Canada today. It looks like the rain is lighter in VT. and the western part of Maine, so I may give that a try. Oh well, time for another cup of coffee. I'll have to think about this for a little bit before heading out today.

Joe

06-12-2011, 08:22 PM

Despite the cold weather and rain, I made it up to Rockland, ME. today. Even with the bad weather, I still had a great time. I saw some beautiful places along the way. The NH/ME coastline is is a place everyone should see at least once.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4498.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4499.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4500.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4505.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4506.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4508.jpg

Dave Smith

06-12-2011, 09:48 PM

Meeting you guys was such an honor. I'll post some photos tomorrow. HARDCORE you guys are. Huge Congrats and sorry about the weather, 14 years and this was the first truly wet open house event.

Joe

06-13-2011, 07:07 AM

Thanks Dave. I very much enjoyed meeting you and would have loved to sit around and talk cars with you for a few hours. Unfortunately you were literally being pulled a hundred different directions during the Open House. :) Thanks to you and your brother I was given the chance to realize my CRAZZY dream a few years ago. Time to get the car uncovered and push on to Halifax now. Looks like the weather is going to be a little better today!

timdks

06-13-2011, 08:23 AM

vnmsss

06-13-2011, 01:05 PM

Joe,

Congratulations on a great run! Been following this thread since you posted back in February, and hat's off to you and everyone that took this great adventure. Perhaps you've discovered, as we have, that taking a real road trip (sun, wind, rain, road construction, and yes, all those friendly waves and thumbs up in every town you pass through), in these great cars is rewarding in countless ways; From the time you turn the key, to the time you close the garage door.

Love the pictures, and I'm sure you have so many great memories from the trip (and are still building more as you continue the journey). I wish you safe travels and hope to meet up with you guys on a road trip one day in the future. There's simply no better way to see our great Country and meet some great folks along the way! Kudos to all!

Ralph...Best wishes for your family. You are the Road Warrior King, and we bow to your spirit of adventure (and your odometer!)....Wow!!! Did I mention, You're the King! ;.)

Karen

Dave Smith

06-13-2011, 01:20 PM

Epic Adventure! Another FFR story that is better than fiction.

Joe

06-14-2011, 08:24 AM

Yesterday I fought the rain, cold, mist and fog all the way to Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada.

While I was in Saint John I couldn't but help notice an interesting menu offering at Micky D's.. I give it mixed reviews. :)

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0260.jpg

I originally wanted to go all the way to Halifax, Nova Scotia, but it was still 5 more hours down the road. I decided that I had enough of the bad weather, especially since the forecast showed that it wasn't going to get any better for 3-4 more days, so I turned around. I spent last night in Bangor, ME. Unfortunately the weather doesn't look good in just about any direction I go right now..

So here I sit in Bangor, ME. right now. Time to figure out a route for the day, make hotel reservations, get the car cleaned up a little and hit the road.

Until next time............

Joe - -

Joe

06-16-2011, 04:40 PM

So I last left off in Bangor, ME. and was trying to decide where to go next. After taking my time in Bangor, ME. I checked the weather again and noticed that areas to the west appeared to be clearing and the forecast was for WARMER weather! That was all I needed to see. I decided to take the scenic, slow route to Burlington, VT. heading down Hwy. 2.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0269.jpg

I took in all the landscape had to offer through Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. I expecially liked passing through all of the little towns along the way.

Montpelier, VT.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0275.jpg

I was really impressed with how patriotic some of the towns along the way were.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0270.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0273.jpg

About 7 hours later I arrived in Burlington, VT. and took a quick whirlwind tour of downtown Burlington which is right next to Lake Champlain. There were lots of open air seating restaurants/bars and the downtown area had a really nice vibe. I then decided to keep on driving and decided to drive to Utica, NY. It was already late afternoon, so I knew it was going to be a late arrival into Utica, but I really wanted to take advantage of the good weather.

I then booked a cheap motel in Utica, NY. using Priceline.com and then headed south on Hwy. 8 for five more hours of driving. The first part of the drive was along the eastern shores of Lake Champlain. Once it was time to cross over into New York I found the bridge was under construction. There was a free ferry that took me across to New York.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0284.jpg

I never thought my Cobra would arrive in New York via water.

I got to witness a wonderful sunset looking west over the moutains in New York.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0280.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0276.jpg

Joe

06-16-2011, 04:47 PM

I got a late start from Utica, NY yesterday because I decided to get the oil changed and wash and vacuum the car. While cleaning the car up I noticed that my rear tires were looking so good. I knew I was going to buy new tires soon, but I had no idea they would wear down so much during the past 4000 miles of this trip.

I then decided to limp the car to my Mom's house in Friendly, WV and get some new rear tires ordered from TireRack and have them delivered there. I drove through Buffalo, NY. and then headed south to Friendly, WV. I hated not taking the time to see Niagra Falls, but decided that I will take a 600 mile day trip from my Mom's to see the falls once I get the new tires installed.

Anyone in West Virginia interested in making a short little day trip to Buffalo / Niagra Falls during the middle of next week?

I arrived at my Mom's house around 8:30 PM. Tires have been ordered, trunk and cockpit floors have been dried. I will hopefully get some time to start detailing the car tomorrow. For some reason I only needed to order rear tires..?? :) As you can see, I ran them over-inflated for the first 5-10K miles, so the center is now getting pretty thin. I got 19,000 miles out of this rear set of tires. The fronts are still going strong.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4529.jpg

I was planning to upgrade to some Kumhos, but instead decided to save some money and just order some more rear Sumitomos. Maybe once I wear out this rear set of Sumi's, it'll be time to replace the entire set. I'll then upgrade to the Kumhos then. Hopefully I catch them on sale between now and then.

Joe

06-20-2011, 03:12 PM

Well, the last couple of days have been crazy to say the least. You just never know what life has in store for you, do you? Yesterday I was helping out around my Mom's house trying to help out with some things that have been needing to get done before leaving for LCS on Thursday. One of the honey-do's was to remove an old satellite dish mounted up high on the side of her house. I was on the ladder at about 5 feet when I lost my balance. I fell and tried landing on my feet, but didn't land on solid ground. As a result I severely rolled my ankle and went to the local ER at the hospital. They don't think it's broken, but they couldn't tell for sure due to the swelling. At this point I don't know if I'm going to be able to drive before Thursday. Even if I could drive I'm not sure how much fun I would have at LCS, if I can't walk. So anyway here I sit with my foot up in the air, along with the rest of my trip. :(

Here's a photo of the ankle.

This is a warning, don't scroll down if your squeamish about a photo of an injured swollen ankle..

http://www.ffcars.com/photopost/data/500/IMAG0292.jpg (http://javascript<strong></strong>:;)

timdks

06-20-2011, 03:27 PM

Enjoyed following your exploits so far, but this last one isn't pretty. Good thing is you get more time with mom.

Joe

06-20-2011, 03:46 PM

Enjoyed following your exploits so far, but this last one isn't pretty. Good thing is you get more time with mom.

Well if see a red Roadster coming down IH-35 southbound through KS. later this week and you see crutches sticking up on the passenger side, you'll know it's me! :)

David Hodgkins

06-20-2011, 03:47 PM

Ouch!

Great story so far, but that's definitely a bump in the road. Here's hoping it's not broken! That sucker's gotta hurt...

:)

Joe

06-20-2011, 03:52 PM

Oh yeah, good news! UPS delivered my tires today!!! Unfortunately it's pretty much impossible for me to get them installed at this point.. :( Hopefully the ankle will start feeling a little better in the coming days.

Dave Smith

06-20-2011, 04:00 PM

Joe,

ARRRGHH!!! I have a surprise for you if I see you at London!

Jeff Kleiner

06-20-2011, 04:33 PM

Dang Joe. Sorry to see this. As someone who can roll a trick ankle walking across a billiard table smooth parking lot I've looked down at that sight more times than I can count. I got one word for you my friend...ICE! Lots of it in a bucket with water for a minimum of 20 minutes every couple of hours. Then wrap it with an Ace bandage till the next round. This is what works for me; as you prep your bucket of ice drop a couple bottles of beer in there---when you stick your foot in pull the first one out and drink it. Then drink the second one. When it is gone you can remove your foot from the bucket. That doesn't mean you can't drink more beers though.

Hurry up and get well so we can see you in London!

Jeff

Joe

06-20-2011, 05:01 PM

Joe,

ARRRGHH!!! I have a surprise for you if I see you at London!

I can see it already. The official Factory Five Crooked Ankle Award..

Jeff, I'm going to try your therapy with some local Yuengling brew.. :)

Rscocca

06-20-2011, 05:19 PM

Joe-- sorry about the bad ankle, but those slicks you where showing have plenty of meat on em, te he.
Pleasure meeting you at the open house feel better soon.

Joe

06-22-2011, 02:40 PM

I managed to hobble around long enough to get the wheels off, get new tires installed and get back to my Mom's place.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/268027_1699294616026_1647730277_1318581_516892_n.j pg

I'm headed to LCS in the morning. I'm going to stop on the way at a Walmart and buy me a folding chair. I think I'm going to be doing a lot of sitting at LCS. If you see some guy always sitting, come by and say hello! Todd, Jerry, Terry, Jeff, Bill or whoever, please don't be offended if I walk up to say HI and plop down a chair and stay awhile! :)

BTW, Jeff, I found something called Flying Dog, Gonzo Imperial Porter, 9.2% ALC/VOL.. Pretty tasty stuff..

Joe

06-23-2011, 01:08 PM

I made it to LCS! I'm at the Super 8, on the east side of the building facing the Holiday Inn and Cracker Barrel.

David Hodgkins

06-23-2011, 01:23 PM

That's so cool! Have fun, and take a ton of pics for us losers who didn't make it...

:)

Someday I Suppose

06-23-2011, 02:27 PM

Joe, awesome adventure for sure, no fun on the ankle, but great to see you made it to LCS, enjoy!!

Joe

06-23-2011, 03:56 PM

Host hotel parking lot starting to fill up!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0297.jpg

riptide motorsport

06-23-2011, 04:20 PM

Joe: you have personally made this an excelent thread!!!!!!

vnmsss

06-23-2011, 04:42 PM

Joe....Congrats on your arrival at LCS! You 'da man!!! Talk about the iron warrior award! As others have mentioned, we will need lots of pics!! Have fun!

Karen
PS....We've got a spot for you on our 25 Hour team!! You've got the right stuff!!!

Joe

06-23-2011, 07:33 PM

Look what rolled into the hotel parking lot.. It's the real one!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0300.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0302.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0303.jpg

Joe

06-24-2011, 02:32 PM

Here's a few parking lot photos and autocross photos..

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4533.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4537.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4542.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4544.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4548.jpg

Joe

06-24-2011, 02:33 PM

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4538.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4539.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4543.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4540.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4541.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4536.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4535.jpg

Joe

06-25-2011, 01:57 PM

LONDON SHOW DAY! We are having great weather today. Downtown London was great as usual. Although Superformance, Backdraft, Hurricane and others were there, 90% of the crowd was around the Factory Five Racing trailer. I think Dave Smith was feeling like a rock star.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4549.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4551.jpg

I finally got Terry moving down the highway.. Sorry, I cut off the rear end of your car, at least I didn't hit you!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4552.jpg

This is the one! I tried to get Terry and Jeff at the same time. Awful photo.. Terry was wondering how much longer he had before evasive action was going to be required. I was half way in his lane. Don't worry Terry, it would have buffed out!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4555.jpg

The short drive to the Speedway to form up with the other 100+ cars.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4561.jpg

Speedway parking lot.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4562.jpg

Parading into London, OH.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4566.jpg

Joe

06-25-2011, 01:58 PM

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4567.jpg

Factory Five Racing rig.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4568.jpg

Can you tell, I really like Coupes!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4569.jpg

My fellow build school classmate Al R. meeting Dave and getting the autograph, t-shirt and photo! http://www.ffcars.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4570.jpg

Charity Ride down Main Street!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4571.jpg

Charity Ride down Main Street

Joe

06-25-2011, 02:22 PM

Here's a few cell phone photos.

Anyone reconize the passenger? Pretty cool!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0327.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0324.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0326.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0325.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0319.jpg

Couple of more staging photos at the Speedway.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMAG0310.jpg

Joe

06-25-2011, 11:28 PM

Someone local from London won the #198 car..

$100,000 was raised for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation!

I'll be hitting the road early in the morning, heading back to Texas! It has been a great three weeks. It was nice seeing everyone again.

Late on the last night in front of the hotel.. Good times..

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4572.jpg

Joe

06-26-2011, 07:18 AM

It's a late start.. Woke up at 6AM and saw rain. Went back to bed, now work up and more rain. Guess I'll just grab the rain gear and go for it. I need to put in at least 500 miles today. I hope to make it to Jackson, TN. tonight.

Joe

06-26-2011, 08:32 PM

I make it to Jackson, TN. about an hour ago. The weather radar on the smart phone really came in handy today. I was in rain for the first couple of hours, since I had to start in rain. The radar allowed me to head for the closest clearing and then afforded me the opportunity to stay out of the rain for the rest of the day. I drove an indirect route to get to Jackson which cost me a couple of hours. But it was a couple of extra hours of dry, cool, fun driving, so it's all good!

Found another great American flag photo opportunity about an hour north of Jackson, TN. Too bad the car was so dirty..

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4574.jpg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii202/BurlesonCobra/CobraTrip2011/IMG_4575.jpg

vnmsss

06-27-2011, 12:09 AM

Joe....Are your kidding????? Those are absolutely POM material if you ask me...;.) ....Thanks so much for posting all the pics from the LCS, and from your travels......You're my new hero!!

Karen

Jeff Collins

06-27-2011, 07:17 AM

What a great adventure, thanks for sharing it. I was jealous of your trip already, but now you are Karen's hero to boot. I don't know if I can take it. Hope you have a safe trip home.

Joe

06-27-2011, 07:42 PM

Joe....Are your kidding????? Those are absolutely POM material if you ask me...;.) ....Thanks so much for posting all the pics from the LCS, and from your travels......You're my new hero!!

Karen

LOL.. Naww, you're my hero! Just a couple of days ago I was auto crossing for 50 seconds at a time. After the 2nd or 3rd run I realized that I was sweating and had the shakes.. The adrenaline rush was crazy.. I can't imagine racing for hours at a time in a real race prepped car! That would be a blast!

What a great adventure, thanks for sharing it. I was jealous of your trip already, but now you are Karen's hero to boot. I don't know if I can take it. Hope you have a safe trip home.

Thanks Jeff.. Just made it home a few minutes ago.. It was a three week trip that I'll remember for the rest of my life. I had a blast! I just can't believe it's already over.. :(