Today was the first time I've ever been to Road Atlanta and it already ranks as one of my favorite tracks to shoot. It has a pretty similar feel to Road America, a track I also like. Very spectator-friendly with relatively minimal fencing and some eyebrow-raising closeup views. Also, the open infield parking makes getting around the track much quicker and less tiring which my legs and feet very much appreciate.



I spent the day exploring the track and figuring out spots to shoot from come time for the actual races. This time around I'm aiming to do what I understand to be a proper shoot: Getting shots of the race from 2 or 3 pre-chosen spots, then making my way to the podium ceremony. I think I've found suitable spots, except I was unable to locate the podium area. I had asked several track workers and amazingly none of them had any clue. I guess they just work there.



One neat aspect about this race is the fact that Mat Mladin is on Twitter now and is personally making updates. It's cool to get a glimpse into his weekend, from watching Fire on the Track in his motor home last night to commenting that the left side of his tires never got up to temperature during his Superpole lap with which he demolished the grid by over 1.6 seconds. To be fair, there are other riders who are also Twittering but hey, it's Mat Mladin.



Neil Hodgson still isn't back from his injuries yet, but who finally DID show up for the first time this season is Roger Hayden. Unfortunately, at best it will be an uphill battle. 3 DNS's is pretty tough to make up.



Grid walk tomorrow should be interesting. To me, that and Superpole are two improvements DMG has brought in. The rest, I won't comment for now other than I wish they'd do something about those rolling starts...



Note to self: Bring an extra toothbrush next time to scrub off all the red dust from my shoes. Also, don't drive here from Chicago again. Ever.

Labels: AMA Superbike