Since voicing my candid appraisal on the entire "PSL" ticket debacle, I've spent the better part of 2012 trying to turn a new leaf, trying to approach the USGP in Austin as an optimist. I freely admit that this is a trait I'm probably not best known for in certain circles . . . LOL.
The closer truth is that at heart I am a realist who does not suffer fools nor arrogant schemers gladly. However, it is with caution that I want to initiate this thread on this week's release from CoTA regarding "Prohibited Items."
I am currently seeking clarification on a couple of points regarding their somewhat unexpected, highly unusual, and rather vague proclamation. Key to my interest is learning the criteria entrants will be judged upon and how this process of exclusion will be implemented. Given that most attendees will be shuttled to the circuit, thus unable to easily return prohibited items to their vehicles, this raises many questions about how CoTA plans to address the challenges this places upon their ticket buying customers.
From the outset, I think it is important to set a proper perspective on this question.
This is NOT a policy brought upon CoTA from the FIA, FOM, nor any sanctioning or commercial body remotely associated with F1. (Many will blame Bernie . . . geez, sometimes I really have to feel for him.)
This is NOT consistent with other F1 Grands Prix staged around the world.
This is NOT consistent with motor sport events . . . road racing and ovals . . . held in the US.
Therefore, this dilemma, the questions it raises, and the discussion which will certainly follow across the internet is of their own making.
Hopefully this coming week will bring some degree of clarity, qualification, and adjustment from CoTA before the real debate begins . . . but I am certain that debate will be fierce.
For the sake of those who have worked to bring the USGP to Austin I hope that CoTA will pay attention. No sensible motor sport enthusiast will pay hard earned money only to put up with such nonsense.
I will not, and I'm certain that I'm not alone.
To clarify, I may not be completely accurate in my assertion that the prohibition of certain items on this list . . . namely photo related . . . are not issued from Formula One Management, but I can say that I've never been personally restricted, nor have I witnessed anyone being restricted from bringing their gear and taking pictures at Imola, Spa, Monza, Montreal, and Indianapolis. And yes, I have carried zoom lenses exceeding the 10" stipulation here.
ReplyDeleteWord comes this morning via the FoF1ATx and CoTA FB pages that CoTA has dropped the restrictions on detachable lenses.
DeleteThis is great news for all of us. Thanks, CoTA, for listening and doing the right thing.
The meter is once again PEGGED in anticipation of a great Formula 1 weekend!