ASCHENBACH: Road America Debrief

We’ve had a strong, but a bit unlucky, season leading up to Road America. Our Stevenson Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.R was the car to beat at most tracks. We knew this race was going to be an uphill battle due to the current rules package, but either way you have to run the race!

Unfortunately for us, this event produced our first DNF of the season. DNF. Did Not Finish. No one likes to hear those words!

So, instead of a “poor us” race recap, I’m going to write about Road America, the area and places to go. That sounds like a bit more fun!

The track is fast, technical and allows racecars to stretch their legs. It has heavy brake zones and lots of elevation changes. Horsepower and downforce are the attributes your car needs the most, especially in the unique corners like the Carousel and the Kink.

Let’s just say the Kink hasn’t been too friendly to many cars and drivers. Who knows how much damage that corner has created in the world of motorsport…probably a lot. Saying that, it’s one of THE MOST EPIC corners in racing.

Fans have the ability to see much of the track and Road America has done a great job of interconnecting various paths and roads to get to the right spots. It’s a must to watch from Turn 5, a place where lots of passes are made!

Once you’re done at the track, there are various places to go to enjoy the rest of your day. Road America resides in the city of Plymouth, Wis. You may think you’re in the middle of nowhere as you get closer to the track; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth!

Just down the road you have the beautiful, quaint town of Elkhart Lake. Many people from Milwaukee and Chicago have summer homes in the area. It’s a great place to get away and is one of those so-called “hidden gems” in the USA.

The Osthoff Resort is the place to stay. It’s a first class resort on the lake with great staff and amazing rooms. Technically, you never have to leave the place. Between the amenities, top-notch food and incredible views, there is always somewhere to go and something to do!

If you’re looking to get out on the town, the place to eat is the Paddock Club. You’ll always see plenty of people from the track enjoying the atmosphere and good food.

Afterwards, head over to the Siebkens Tavern. This is one of the best bars to socialize and enjoy a few cocktails with friends. But beware, time flies in this place! You’ll be surprised how long you stay.

A few other places to go would be Off The Rail for breakfast and the Barefoot Tiki Bar at night.

Overall, Road America and Elkhart Lake combine to be one of the best spots during the 2015 Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge schedule. It’s a great place to bring your family and friends to enjoy some racing and fun!

Next up, Virginia International Raceway!