The Inaugural San Jose Grand Prix, 7/29-31 2005

Apologize for the multitude of repetitive photos. This was one of the last times I dumped the entire memory card to Flickr.

Anyway, the event had more than its fair share of logistical issues, like difficulty in getting around (especially because there was only one bridge), poor sightlines, a four-hour delay on Friday (which scrapped a round of qualifying and the Champ Car driver autograph session), and a rather uninteresting race due to a narrow course with no passing opportunities. I think a lot of these had to do with the fact that they moved the course layout from the HP Pavilion (where the SJ Sharks play) to this downtown area very late in the game, around March. A lot of things weren't ready.

All that being said, I had a blast being up close seeing and hearing real Champ Cars going at speed, and I do plan on coming back next year when many of these issues should be addressed. Can't really say the same for Erika, whose patience was severely tried by the waiting and the heat and swears she won't come back unless we can book a hotel right there that she can chill out at when she needs to.

693 photos | 1,011 views

items are from 29 Jul 2005.