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-   -   worst red light debate, again! (https://classracer.com/classforum/showthread.php?t=32995)

Andys dad 05-09-2011 11:45 AM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Why does the second car get a mulligan?

Why not both lose?

bill dedman 05-09-2011 12:59 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Bunkster (Post 257465)
Mr. Dedman, you remind me of Harry Markopolos: In an ocean of naysayers, YOU are correct.

Sleep easily, as one day, you WILL be vindicated on this issue.

Thanks, Bunkster; it's easy to maintan a position when you have facts on your side.

Fact: the current rule treats first-to-leave cars differently from second-to-leave cars.
Fact: this rule is the ONLY rule I know of that treats cars unequally, in this manner (depriving one of red light jeopardy, if the first car bulbs.)
Fact: there's no reason (any more) to continue this unequal treatment.
Fact: no one YET has offered up a solution for this problem other than a new rule (worse red light.)
Fact: it will never be changed because NHRA doesn't stand to make any money off changing it.
Fact: knowing NHRA's selfish policy doesn't condone its continued use.
Fact: realizing the facts is a plus.

bill dedman 05-09-2011 01:07 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by SStockDart (Post 257507)
If you can tell me what is fair or equitable about a rule that treats different compititors, differently, please do


Rhetorical question as you stated it. The rules do treat competitors equitably. Each have the opportunity to cut a good light and run the dial. The one with the best light and closer to the dial wins 100% of the time.

The first red light rule treats the first-to-leave cars differently from the way it treats second-to-leave cars, if the first-to-leave red light.

So you believe the slower cars deserve a "mulligan"?

This rule does NOTHING for the slower car beyond offering as way to give it an EQUAL chance to compare red lights with the faster car.

Two cars; two chances. Where's the "gimmee"????

To award a win to one car for an infraction he never had a chance to commit, IS a "gimmee."

We don't need "gimmee's" in Class racing... or, Bracket racing.

Let's get rid of it.

Ed Fernandez 05-09-2011 01:16 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by bill dedman (Post 257462)
Just sidesteps the question, Why not change the unfair things we can?"

If you can tell me what is fair or equitable about a rule that treats different compititors, differently, please do.

The first red light rule treats the first-to-leave cars differently from the way it treats second-to-leave cars, if the first-to-leave red lights.

No reason to do that.

The only reason they do it that way, now, is that when the system was created, they had no alternative. Now, they do.

NHRA's "bottom line" is no legitimate reason to maintain an unfair rule.

Like I said, "If you can tell me what is fair or equitable about a rule that treats different compititors, differently, please do."

I will bet a dollar to a donut, you can't , and your response will be ANYTHING BUT, a rational, logical, reasonable answer to that question.


How about it, Jeff???

Here's a picture of Bracket racer, Bill Dedman, "not racing"...

Yes, I'm driving the brown Mopar, and yes, I got there first.

Jeff,he didn't tell you the picture was taken in 1922.

Bob Mulry 05-09-2011 01:27 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Ed,

OOPS...

I see how the counter works now....

It updates all of your past posts to the current counter number...

You didn't break the counter, but you sure stretched the heck out of it

OK.....

Soup for you...

Bob

bill dedman 05-09-2011 01:29 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Fernandez (Post 257528)
Jeff,he didn't tell you the picture was taken in 1922.

Of what significance is that?

Jim Wahl 05-09-2011 01:32 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Aww, Ed's nothing but a post hog! Don't ya hate guys like him? Jim

Ed Fernandez 05-09-2011 02:11 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
1 Attachment(s)
Bob:Chicken noodle

Mr Bill:No present or future ride in a S/SS car.Go break the bracket racers ball$.

Jim:

SStockDart 05-09-2011 02:49 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Bill, a "Mulligan" is not the same as a "Gimmie".........Sorry if I confused you. Oh, and I decided to change my avatar from my "class car" to my "bracket car" so I will feel more at home. LOL

Jeff Lee 05-09-2011 03:24 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by bill dedman (Post 257463)
SOMEBODY must like it, from the amazing number of posts...

5 votes for 2.60 average

Mark Yacavone 05-09-2011 03:41 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by SStockDart (Post 257507)
If you can tell me what is fair or equitable about a rule that treats different compititors, differently, please do


Rhetorical question as you stated it. The rules do treat competitors equitably. Each have the opportunity to cut a good light and run the dial. The one with the best light and closer to the dial wins 100% of the time.

The first red light rule treats the first-to-leave cars differently from the way it treats second-to-leave cars, if the first-to-leave red light.

So you believe the slower cars deserve a "mulligan"?

Are you quoting here? This post makes no sense to me.

SStockDart 05-09-2011 04:00 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Hey Mark.....yes, I was quoting Bill with the first and third paragraphs. Sorry, I was educated at ASU. Oh, I better clear that up. That is not a joke.

Pvt Parts 05-09-2011 04:12 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Fernandez (Post 257443)
I just checked the entry list for Englishtown (Stock is full) and I see I'm the slowest turtle in the pond.Bill,please get on the horn with NHRA and get that red light rule changed fast.If I happen to get lucky and go some rounds I want the playing field leveled so I can win my first "big" Wally.

Thanks
Ed


Good luck Ed. I was at Englishtown 3 different times, in three different cars, in 3 different classes in 2 different eliminators and was runner up all three times. Maybe you can nail it.

Pvt Parts 05-09-2011 04:33 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pvt Parts (Post 257562)
Good luck Ed. I was at Englishtown 3 different times, in three different cars, in 3 different classes in 2 different eliminators and was runner up all three times. Maybe you can nail it.


BTW, I failed to mention..... the first 2 times I red lit in the final. Once as the slower car, once as the faster car. And not anywhere, to anyone at any time have I ever blamed anything or anyone but myself for screwing up. The fairness in the rule gave me the opportunity to get back up, work on improving my driving and try again. The 3rd time both of us were green. I just got outrun, plain and simple. In all 3 cases, my opponent ran a better race than I did and deserved the win.

Bunkster 05-09-2011 04:46 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pvt Parts (Post 257567)
......the first 2 times I red lit in the final....

And if...just if....your opponent would have been made to take an equal shot at the tree, you would have thought this unfair?

You would have complained about this and insisted a "first red light" rule should be established?

SStockDart 05-09-2011 04:51 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
I don't know why I waste my time with this, but I just had to go back and take a look. In my last 26 National Events, I have red lit 5 times in competition. Two times in heads up runs (lost to a faster car each time), and 3 times as the "chaser". I have had eleven people red light against me. Seven of them were slower cars and I did not go red against them. Four of those were faster cars and I had already gone green. I know, I know, Bill. This doesn't matter, does it?

Toby Lang 05-09-2011 05:14 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Fernandez (Post 257443)
I just checked the entry list for Englishtown (Stock is full) and I see I'm the slowest turtle in the pond.


Git-R-Done this time, OK, Ed? :)


-Toby

Ed Fernandez 05-09-2011 05:26 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Toby,I'm like everybody else who enters a race.I don't think anybody doesn't think they're going to win.Why else bother to spend the money and time.I just hope one day to get that big Wally.The money goes,but once you won one they can't take it away.It puzzles me how anybody can sell/auction off a divisional/national event Wally.

Jeff Lee 05-09-2011 05:28 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by bill dedman (Post 257462)
Just sidesteps the question, Why not change the unfair things we can?"

You seem to think this is an issue of unfairness. Others disagree, myself included. While you scream unfair, others claim the rule is fair. I again reiterate, once you red light, your out of play. Doesn't matter if your the fast car or slow car. Both have an equal opportunity to red light first. Not worst. First.

If you can tell me what is fair or equitable about a rule that treats different compititors, differently, please do.

Each of the two competitors have an equal shot at a .000 light or any variance up or down from that figure. The one that has a negative variance first, looses. Both competitors are treated equally. One chose to end the game first. He's out. The slower competitor could have built a faster car and been second to leave. That option is open to all competitors.
The second to leave has a multitude of other distractions that the first to leave did not have to deal with. That may also be unfair but again, was known when the participant entered his first race.


The first red light rule treats the first-to-leave cars differently from the way it treats second-to-leave cars, if the first-to-leave red lights.

Once the first party red lights, the game is over. The way the remaining participant is treated is of no consequence because the first red lighting party ended the game by his own actions.


No reason to do that.

That's your opinion.


The only reason they do it that way, now, is that when the system was created, they had no alternative. Now, they do.

They may, but choose not to. And it is of course, their game. Based on conversations with an NHRA official, I believe NHRA (and presumably IHRA), think as I do. Once the red light is activated, the game is over for that participant.

NHRA's "bottom line" is no legitimate reason to maintain an unfair rule.

Again, your analogy is that this is an issue of fairness. I have previously scripted a scenario which showed how and why giving incentives to racers to continuously produce quicker ET's would help NHRA with their bottom line. If NHRA is unable to maintain their bottom line, they fail to exist. I, for one, would like to see NHRA remain in business. I do not think you feel the same way. But maybe I'm wrong.

Like I said, "If you can tell me what is fair or equitable about a rule that treats different compititors, differently, please do."

Each participant has the same rule book to review before entering the first race. Each is given equal opportunity to red light. Each is given equal opportunity to cut a .000 reaction time and predict to .00 their ET. Either participant can win or loose based on their own actions.

I will bet a dollar to a donut, you can't , and your response will be ANYTHING BUT, a rational, logical, reasonable answer to that question.

You have seen my responses and choose not to accept them are reasonable. That is your prerogative. That would indicate negotiations are at an impasse and little to nothing will move this argument forward to either side.


How about it, Jeff???

Here's a picture of Bracket racer, Bill Dedman, "not racing"...

Yes, I'm driving the brown Mopar, and yes, I got there first.

Good. I'm glad you bracket race and hope you enjoy the fruits of your labor. However, that is where your arguments need to be, in the bracket racer community. You have stated you have ZERO intention of racing in S/SS class so I would say your position has NOTHING to do with those that choose to make S/SS racing the venue of choice. Your past accomplishments have no relevance especially given your statement that you will NEVER race S/SS again in any capacity. Your argument that a change in S/SS red light rule will affect Bracket racing is not acceptable to me. If you have such a good cause, take it to the bracket race community. Or have you? What was the result? Ideally, you would petition NHRA for this change. I'm amazed you have not, given your passion. If you have not, why not? Is this your 15 minutes of fame and you want it on these pages for that reason? I can not imagine having such a passion over something and letting it progress no further than a web site. Or are you just wanting somebody else to carry this forward?

"The message you have entered is too short. Please lengthen your message to at least 2 characters."
I guess incorporating my answer inside a previous post doesn't work.
My responses are in bold.

Toby Lang 05-09-2011 05:37 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Ed, you definitely have what it takes to win one. Hopefully it will happen this year. I think all racers should get to win at least one national. There's nothing like it.

Make sure you're all stickered up. I know the extra money won't hurt either. ;)

Good luck!


-Toby

Bunkster 05-09-2011 05:58 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Mr. Dedman, it appears the only thing to equalize foul start jeopardy across all categories, is to find a way to institute a “first” situation into heads up races.

Now, this will take some thought, as how do you convert a heads up run to equal status of a handicap run?

Faster qualifiers seem to be the logical choice here. Be it Pro Stock or Stock, the higher qualified car should be exempt from any dual red light race: If both cars in a heads up race foul, the car that qualified higher will be the winner. There is no problem with writing this into the software: It is simple “if…then…else…endif” programming.

Would this make less sense than what is in place now? It seems it would be a fair way of one-car foul- start jeopardy in ALL races.

FIRST RED LIGHT FOR EVERYONE!

Pvt Parts 05-09-2011 06:05 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Bunkster (Post 257572)
And if...just if....your opponent would have been made to take an equal shot at the tree, you would have thought this unfair?

You would have complained about this and insisted a "first red light" rule should be established?


No way. I don't whine, cry and complain about anything. I don't ask anyone to give me anything. I have had 2 jobs my entire life that paid by the hour and they were both short lived. Since then I've worked on commission or owned my own business. I alone am responsible for my successes and I alone am responsible for my failures or losses. I believe that and apply it in every facet of my life, including racing. Everyone's rule book reads the same. I knew what the rules were when I entered the race. When you make a mistake and you lose, at least be man enough to admit it or stay home.

Bunkster 05-09-2011 08:14 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pvt Parts (Post 257591)
No way. I don't whine, cry and complain about anything. I don't ask anyone to give me anything. I have had 2 jobs my entire life that paid by the hour and they were both short lived. Since then I've worked on commission or owned my own business. I alone am responsible for my successes and I alone am responsible for my failures or losses. I believe that and apply it in every facet of my life, including racing. Everyone's rule book reads the same. I knew what the rules were when I entered the race. When you make a mistake and you lose, at least be man enough to admit it or stay home.

That is a quite impressive resume you have. You should be very, very proud of yourself. (What, though, that has to do with the price of ice cream in Kandahar, is a mystery.)

Thank you though for stating, one way or another, you don’t care. If it were changed to a “worst” foul start, that would be fine with you. As you mentioned, you won’t whine or moan about anything.

Ed Fernandez 05-09-2011 08:27 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Bunkster (Post 257615)
That is a quite impressive resume you have. You should be very, very proud of yourself. (What, though, that has to do with the price of ice cream in Kandahar, is a mystery.)

Thank you though for stating, one way or another, you don’t care. If it were changed to a “worst” foul start, that would be fine with you. As you mentioned, you won’t whine or moan about anything.

Take your no name,no racing ***** back to the school yard and play skip rope with the rest of the girls.Your nosensical comments are as useful as ***$ on a bull.And spit out the dictionary you've been chewing on.You sound like a shyster lawyer,which you probably are.

Ed Wright 05-09-2011 08:37 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Fernandez (Post 257619)
Take your no name,no racing ***** back to the school yard and play skip rope with the rest of the girls.Your nosensical comments are as useful as ***$ on a bull.And spit out the dictionary you've been chewing on.You sound like a shyster lawyer,which you probably are.

Ed, I wonder how he/she would make a heads-up read light worse without also being first? Going red worse in a heads-up, without also being first to red light would be a real feat. LMAO

Pvt Parts 05-09-2011 09:04 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Bunkster (Post 257615)
That is a quite impressive resume you have. You should be very, very proud of yourself. (What, though, that has to do with the price of ice cream in Kandahar, is a mystery.)

Thank you though for stating, one way or another, you don’t care. If it were changed to a “worst” foul start, that would be fine with you. As you mentioned, you won’t whine or moan about anything.


It means Mr. Bunkster that I accept full responsibility for my actions, the ones that produce a "win" as well as the ones that result in a "loss". I see the world for what it is and not "as advertised". I would suggest that if you wanted to continue to post in this board with the slightest amount of credibility, you'd use your real name instead of alias. Till then you're just irresponsible, unknown mouthpiece spewing worthless nonsense from behind a dark curtain.

FINESPLINE 05-09-2011 09:50 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pvt Parts (Post 257591)
No way. I don't whine, cry and complain about anything. I don't ask anyone to give me anything. I have had 2 jobs my entire life that paid by the hour and they were both short lived. Since then I've worked on commission or owned my own business. I alone am responsible for my successes and I alone am responsible for my failures or losses. I believe that and apply it in every facet of my life, including racing. Everyone's rule book reads the same. I knew what the rules were when I entered the race. When you make a mistake and you lose, at least be man enough to admit it or stay home.

Scott , I tip my hat to you. Maybe you could pass some of that information onto the new generation. It truly is refreshing to hear there are people taking responsibility for themselves. The only way to live ! ---John

bill dedman 05-10-2011 02:54 AM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pvt Parts (Post 257567)
BTW, I failed to mention..... the first 2 times I red lit in the final. Once as the slower car, once as the faster car. And not anywhere, to anyone at any time have I ever blamed anything or anyone but myself for screwing up. The fairness in the rule gave me the opportunity to get back up, work on improving my driving and try again. The 3rd time both of us were green. I just got outrun, plain and simple. In all 3 cases, my opponent ran a better race than I did and deserved the win.

What "fairness?" The fact that when you ran that race as a slower car, you had a chance to red light, but he NEVER DID? He waltzed into the next round (or, to the winner's circle) without ever having to face the red light jeopardy that you did.

What's "fair" about that?

Nothing.

He advanced to the next round (or to the winner's circle) because you (and NHRA) gave him "the gift" of a free ride to the next-round/winner's circle and all he had to do for it was stage his car.

I think a round win should require more than simply staging your car.

Don't you?

bill dedman 05-10-2011 02:59 AM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by SStockDart (Post 257574)
I don't know why I waste my time with this, but I just had to go back and take a look. In my last 26 National Events, I have red lit 5 times in competition. Two times in heads up runs (lost to a faster car each time), and 3 times as the "chaser". I have had eleven people red light against me. Seven of them were slower cars and I did not go red against them. Four of those were faster cars and I had already gone green. I know, I know, Bill. This doesn't matter, does it?

It only matters if the second car to leave is awarded a "win" without having to do anything but stage his car, to earn it.

As the rules stand, that is the case, if the first car "bulbs."

That happens very infrequently, and as such, isn't a big issue.... so, let's fix it.

bill dedman 05-10-2011 03:39 AM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Jeff said:


"Each participant has the same rule book to review before entering the first race. Each is given equal opportunity to red light. Each is given equal opportunity to cut a .000 reaction time and predict to .00 their ET. Either participant can win or loose based on their own actions."

If you have a quicker car, and I HAVE to leave first (no choice, but to leave first in a handicapped race, if your car is quicker) If I "bulb," you have NO "equal opportunity" to red light; you get a "win" by simply having staged your car.

There is NO situation in which the slower car can "enjoy" the same "gimmee."

The slower car ALWAYS faces red light jeopardy.

The quicker car does NOT. When his competitor red lights, he is REMOVED from red light jeopardy. And, gets a free ride to the next round or, winner's circle.

I can't see anything fair or equitable about that, can you?

If you can, please explain what is fair about that set of circumstances.

Two cars; one quicker, one slower... the slower one ALWAYS faces red light jeopardy... the faster car, ONLY if the first car goes green.

Makes no sense...

If you know of any Bracket tracks that utilize a "worse red light" system, please let me know. I do not.

That means that the starting line protocol (rules) for NHRA or IHRA "class racing" are 100-percent identical to the rules used in the Brackets.

That means that any comments, analyses, criticisms, or opinions that apply to Bracket starting line procedure also apply to class racing. 100-percent.

As such, since it's ALL done the same, WHY would you feel that comments about this system are impertinent, REGARDLESS of where the poster races? Everybody, the poster and the legal class racers, suffer the same, identical, fate at the hands of the first red light rule.

Everybody.

So, why would you think that a Bracket Racer's comments would be impertinent on a class racer's board when whatever is said, applies across the board, class or Bracket?

This particular board was created by Ken for the expressed purpose of giving a voice to people who are not currently racing a class car.

As such, there is no moderator-based editorializing regarding subject matter, or maybe you hadn't noticed?

As long as people who post here don't tell lies, unjustly accuse someone of something, don't slander people and don't use profanity, it would seem to be open to any kind of racing-related subject matter anyone wants to post.

I use it in that manner. As it was intended. If I am doing someting Ken doesn't feel is appropriate, he can tell me and I will cease and desist.

In the meantime, I will assume that SOMEBODY finds this thread interesting and prertinent. I received a phone call from somebody in Canada today (Monday) who said he doesn't post here, but has read every page, and is in awe of how anybody could not agree with me, on the red light issue. He is a former class racer who is currently building a new car.

That was nice to hear.

Your words, here, from this post... "Each is given equal opportunity to red light."

Not true.

The second car to leave gives up that "equal opportunity" if the first-to-leave "bulbs."

That's the unfair part.

You contend that the race is over, when the first-to-leave car bulbs, and THAT IS TRUE, with the current red light rule... but it doesn't have to be that way. That scenario was the result of antiquated electronics that existed in 1963. In the many years since then, advances in electronics have made it possible to fix that inequity.

Let's do it...

Henry S 05-10-2011 10:27 AM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
I do not usually comment, but I have been reading all 44 pages of this thread and I have some questions.
1. What is the purpose of a red light?
2. Why are there pre stage and stage bulbs?
3. Why were blinders implemented on the tree?
4. Why does Top Fuel, Funny Car, ProStock, ProStock Motorcycle,Pro Mod, TAD, TAFC, S/C,S/G,S/ST, and heads-up runs in Super Stock and Stock all have the worst red light rule in effect but not the Handicap tree?
Were all these for fairness? Please help me to understand.
thanks

Mark Yacavone 05-10-2011 12:50 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Henry S (Post 257709)
I do not usually comment, but I have been reading all 44 pages of this thread and I have some questions.
1. What is the purpose of a red light?
2. Why are there pre stage and stage bulbs?
3. Why were blinders implemented on the tree?
4. Why does Top Fuel, Funny Car, ProStock, ProStock Motorcycle,Pro Mod, TAD, TAFC, S/C,S/G,S/ST, and heads-up runs in Super Stock and Stock all have the worst red light rule in effect but not the Handicap tree?
Were all these for fairness? Please help me to understand.
thanks

Thanks for participating in this discussion, Henry
I look forward to hearing from new people here.

I'll answer with MY opinion ,only that.

1, Obvious ..Not sure what you're looking for here

2, I'm pretty sure there was only a stage bulb on some of the early Xmas tree
The pre-stage was added as a warning signal only, so as to allow racers to know they were close to staging.
(It's purpose has since been corrupted by NHRA,IHRA to be used as a means to disqualify someone ...See Deep Staging, S/SS rulebook)

3, Blinders and cones were added to help ALL racers to see their own lights better, particularly in night racing situations.

4 a, Because that's the way it's always been...since 1963
b, Not necessarily. There was no way to fix this situation until reaction timers became standard at National meets. In retrospect , NHRA could have changed the handicap red light situation from first to worst at that time. Racers would have gotten over it quickly, seeing that it doesn't happen all that often any way (double minus R/T)
Some of us didn't care for the three amber tree either. We just woke up one morning and there it was.. standard equipment.
I wouldn't expect to see a change any time soon due to input from this forum.
With the proliferation of 9 and 10 second cars lately, it has become largely an agenda driven discussion here.

Jim Wahl 05-10-2011 12:57 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by bill dedman (Post 257681)
Jeff said:


"Each participant has the same rule book to review before entering the first race. Each is given equal opportunity to red light. Each is given equal opportunity to cut a .000 reaction time and predict to .00 their ET. Either participant can win or loose based on their own actions."

If you have a quicker car, and I HAVE to leave first (no choice, but to leave first in a handicapped race, if your car is quicker) If I "bulb," you have NO "equal opportunity" to red light; you get a "win" by simply having staged your car.

There is NO situation in which the slower car can "enjoy" the same "gimmee."

The slower car ALWAYS faces red light jeopardy.

The quicker car does NOT. When his competitor red lights, he is REMOVED from red light jeopardy. And, gets a free ride to the next round or, winner's circle.

I can't see anything fair or equitable about that, can you?

If you can, please explain what is fair about that set of circumstances.

Two cars; one quicker, one slower... the slower one ALWAYS faces red light jeopardy... the faster car, ONLY if the first car goes green.

Makes no sense...

If you know of any Bracket tracks that utilize a "worse red light" system, please let me know. I do not.

That means that the starting line protocol (rules) for NHRA or IHRA "class racing" are 100-percent identical to the rules used in the Brackets.

That means that any comments, analyses, criticisms, or opinions that apply to Bracket starting line procedure also apply to class racing. 100-percent.

As such, since it's ALL done the same, WHY would you feel that comments about this system are impertinent, REGARDLESS of where the poster races? Everybody, the poster and the legal class racers, suffer the same, identical, fate at the hands of the first red light rule.

Everybody.

So, why would you think that a Bracket Racer's comments would be impertinent on a class racer's board when whatever is said, applies across the board, class or Bracket?

This particular board was created by Ken for the expressed purpose of giving a voice to people who are not currently racing a class car.

As such, there is no moderator-based editorializing regarding subject matter, or maybe you hadn't noticed?

As long as people who post here don't tell lies, unjustly accuse someone of something, don't slander people and don't use profanity, it would seem to be open to any kind of racing-related subject matter anyone wants to post.

I use it in that manner. As it was intended. If I am doing someting Ken doesn't feel is appropriate, he can tell me and I will cease and desist.

In the meantime, I will assume that SOMEBODY finds this thread interesting and prertinent. I received a phone call from somebody in Canada today (Monday) who said he doesn't post here, but has read every page, and is in awe of how anybody could not agree with me, on the red light issue. He is a former class racer who is currently building a new car.

That was nice to hear.

Your words, here, from this post... "Each is given equal opportunity to red light."

Not true.

The second car to leave gives up that "equal opportunity" if the first-to-leave "bulbs."

That's the unfair part.

You contend that the race is over, when the first-to-leave car bulbs, and THAT IS TRUE, with the current red light rule... but it doesn't have to be that way. That scenario was the result of antiquated electronics that existed in 1963. In the many years since then, advances in electronics have made it possible to fix that inequity.

Let's do it...

Bill, I have read every page and post on this subject. I can now say that I agree with you completely. I don't know what I was afraid of before I changed my mind. Change itself? Maybe. The "no change" side has not put up a good rebuttal to your points. The reasons they come up with for not changing the rule are silly. "You knew the rules when you started", "Make your car faster", "You're a whiner". It now seems to me you have a valid argument. It is one rule change that truly would not disadvantage any racer regardless of how fast or slow it is! Please know that you have made ME a believer. Good luck on your quest. Persevere! Jim

Ed Wright 05-10-2011 01:13 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Henry S (Post 257709)
I do not usually comment, but I have been reading all 44 pages of this thread and I have some questions.
1. What is the purpose of a red light?
2. Why are there pre stage and stage bulbs?
3. Why were blinders implemented on the tree?
4. Why does Top Fuel, Funny Car, ProStock, ProStock Motorcycle,Pro Mod, TAD, TAFC, S/C,S/G,S/ST, and heads-up runs in Super Stock and Stock all have the worst red light rule in effect but not the Handicap tree?
Were all these for fairness? Please help me to understand.
thanks

Henry, the pros also go by the first red light. Just so happens it is also the worst. How could it not be? First is ALWAYS also be the worst in a heads up match. Why do people keep acting like it's not?? How can it be any other way? Can somebody please explain that? I can not believe how this keeps coming up. Think!

bill dedman 05-10-2011 01:26 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Henry S (Post 257709)
I do not usually comment, but I have been reading all 44 pages of this thread and I have some questions.
1. What is the purpose of a red light?
2. Why are there pre stage and stage bulbs?
3. Why were blinders implemented on the tree?
4. Why does Top Fuel, Funny Car, ProStock, ProStock Motorcycle,Pro Mod, TAD, TAFC, S/C,S/G,S/ST, and heads-up runs in Super Stock and Stock all have the worst red light rule in effect but not the Handicap tree?
Were all these for fairness? Please help me to understand.
thanks

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++
1. Drag racing needs a way to ensure that each participant leaves the starting line after the green light for that lane, is turned on, not before. That guarantees that both competitors have started the race in a timely manner, and have not gained an advantage by getting an undue "head start" that tthey're not entitled to, over the car in the next lane.

Heads up races are simple to produce, as the green light comes on at the same time ffor both lanes, so the first car to register a reaction time that displays less than .000 meaans that that car left before the green light was activated, and since that cannot be done, legally, he is an automatic loser, no matter what the other car does. The second car's reaction time cannot be less of an infraction than that, even IF his reaction time is monitored and evaluated. If he also "bulbs," he would have a red light that is less of an infraction than the first car's red light. In a heads up race of ANY kind, the first car to turn on the red light.loses the race. Simple, and fair.

In a handicapped race, it's not that simple, ideally. With handicapped races, there are TWO green lights, for the two different starting times, the time differential between the two green lights, being the difference between the dial-ins for the two cars.

Let's say, for example, car A has dialed in at 12 seconds flat, and car B has dialed in at 11 seconds flat.

After the cars are staged, the time interval that is established for the handicap, is entered into the timer that activates the green lights for the two cars. At the appropriate instant, the green light for the slower car (first car to leave, necessarily, if it is to be the recipient of the benefit of a handicap) comes on, and that car accelerates away from the starting line, leaving the quicker car sitting, awaiting HIS green light.

When the second car has been sitting, waiting, for the 1-second delayed green light in HIS lane to come on, is given the green light, he also accelerates away from the starting line, in pursuit of the other car, which received the handicap (of 1 second.)

If they both had reaction times (the difference netween the time the green light came on, and the time the car in question rolled out of the staging beam) that were more than .000, the race is on; nobody was disqualified for
red lighting (leaving the staging beam before the green light was activated.)

That is the ideal situation. A race with no "complications."

In a handicapped race, the way the rules read now (and have since 1963, when the Christmas Tree was introduced to NHRA racing on a national event level,) if the first car to leave the starting line leaves too soon, he has "red lit" and is eliminated from further competition, making the second car to leave, the instant winner of that round.

"Pre stage" and "stage" bulbs are the little yellow lights at the top of the Christmas tree. They are there to assist drivers in positioning their cars in the right place, relative to the starting line, as the race is being prosecuted. They are turned on by the race car's wheel as it rolls into their beam, which is a distance of approximately seven inches for the pre-stage beam, and on the starting line for the "stage" beam.

I believe they are infra-red beams. They are just staging aids, but the stage light is critical component of the starting system, becaue it is the beam that must remain "broken" until the green light come on, or a red light" is activated for that lane.

I am not well-versed in th use of "blinders," so, I'll let someone else answer that question.

As for question number four, which was, : "Why does Top Fuel, Funny Car, ProStock, ProStock Motorcycle,Pro Mod, TAD, TAFC, S/C,S/G,S/ST, and heads-up runs in Super Stock and Stock all have the worst red light rule in effect but not the Handicap tree?"

The races in those PRO categories are ALWAYS heads-up... are NEVER handicapped races, so the First red light will always be, also, the Worse red light, also, so, it's a moot point. Either way, red light, and you lose. Period.

You asked, "Were all these for fairness?"

"First or worse" works perfectly for any heads up races, because they are always the same....

Handicap racing is different, because you have cars leaving the line at different times.

The electronic systems available to NHRA in 1963, had no capability of doing what was necessary to determine a winner in the case of different reaction times, when the cars didn't leave off the same green.

The simple thing to do (and, one that seemed to work) was to just do what they did with the heads up cars, and disqualify the first car to red light. End of story.

In the intervening years between 1963 and now, electronic technology has advanced to the level that enables the NHRA's starting line computer to delay the first car's red light from appearing, until the second car to leave has had HIS chance to red light, compare the two, and display a "win" light (along with the losing car's red light) so that each car has had an equal chance to red light.

For reasons unknown to me, some folks don't LIKE the idea of "equal red light jeopardy" and are dead set against the rule change that would enable everyone to have an equal chance to red light.

NHRA has their own reasons against changing to a rule that would take away the advantage that the second car to leave has. That "First red light" rule has been a part of NHRA handicapped racing since 1963, when the Christmas Tree was introduced, so people are used to it, and are reluctant to change just on general principals.

As it stands, now, in 2011, there is no "Worse red light rule" for handicapped racing. The rub is, the old rule is not a rule that enables everyone a chance at a red light. IF the first car to leave, turns on the red bulb,his competition in that round, has won that round without ever having to do anything but stage his car.

Some people think that's not fair.

Hope this helps.

bill dedman 05-10-2011 01:34 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Wahl (Post 257737)
Bill, I have read every page and post on this subject. I can now say that I agree with you completely. I don't know what I was afraid of before I changed my mind. Change itself? Maybe. The "no change" side has not put up a good rebuttal to your points. The reasons they come up with for not changing the rule are silly. "You knew the rules when you started", "Make your car faster", "You're a whiner". It now seems to me you have a valid argument. It is one rule change that truly would not disadvantage any racer regardless of how fast or slow it is! Please know that you have made ME a believer. Good luck on your quest. Persevere! Jim

Jim,
I REALLY appreciate that you gave this enough attention to come to a decision.

As I have said before, IT'S NOT IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM, MY IDEA!

I am not that smart. Obviously...

I had to be shown, several times, and several ways before I could get my so-called brain around the idea, so, I can EASILY understand the people who resist it. It's not really THAT easy to understand, and when somebody comes to the conclusion that YOU just did, it seems so simple.... but, it's not.

Or, maybe I'm just a slow learner, but it took me a couple of MONTHS to get it straight.

Thanks; you just made my day.... :)

bill dedman 05-10-2011 01:47 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed Wright (Post 257741)
First is ALWAYS also be the worst in a heads up match. Why do people keep acting like it's not?? How can it be any other way? Can somebody please explain that? I can not believe how this keeps coming up. Think!

Don't you even READ any of this?
Nobody has said ANYTHING about heads up racing. This entire thread is about handicap racing.

I cannot believe you didn't know that.

SStockDart 05-10-2011 01:51 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
There, Ed, He told you!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "I cannlt believe you didn't know that." LMAO

Bob Mulry 05-10-2011 02:03 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
[Jim Wahl; said..........Bill, I have read every page and post on this subject. I can now say that I agree with you completely. I don't know what I was afraid of before I changed my mind. Change itself? Maybe. The "no change" side has not put up a good rebuttal to your points. The reasons they come up with for not changing the rule are silly. "You knew the rules when you started", "Make your car faster", "You're a whiner". It now seems to me you have a valid argument. It is one rule change that truly would not disadvantage any racer regardless of how fast or slow it is! Please know that you have made ME a believer. Good luck on your quest. Persevere! Jim]



Congratulations on joining the enlightened!!!!!!!

Bob

bill dedman 05-10-2011 02:13 PM

Re: worst red light debate, again!
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by SStockDart (Post 257752)
There, Ed, He told you!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "I cannlt believe you didn't know that." LMAO

Believe it...


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