Race Theory

Risk vs Reward

Elyshia and I rewind the Daytona 400 race which was the cut off race for the playoffs. We discuss the two drivers who failed to make the playoffs by not being able to point their way in because of getting hurt in activities nonrelated to driving the race car in the Cup Series. They were not able to win a race either since their return to full time racing. My perspective comes from my own experience in the Cup Series as well as being hurt, not able to get back in the car as well as driving hurt. The professional race car driver has an obligation to car owners, sponsors, teammates, and manufactures who spend a great deal of money and time promoting this extension of the brand. Check out our website at RaceTheory.Club [https://derrikecope.club/race-theory-podcast]

What Happened to American Stock Car Racing

This episode goes in depth about the current state of NASCAR stock car racing. The sport has been through many changes over time, but none more significant that the implementation of the NEXGEN car. This car is a complete departure from our stock car racing roots, with now an emphasis on the road racing sector. We breakdown the influx of Australian race car drivers coming on the scene in NASCAR for the Indy-road course race. Shane Van Gisbergen a driver from the Supercar Series comes in and wins the race at the Chicago Street Course NASCAR race and sets everyone back on their heels. This one shot fired across the world has set things in motion for how and who may get new opportunities in NASCAR. The dynamic has now shifted to road racing instead of oval racing as a discipline that provides more chances to win in the Cup Series to make it to the playoffs. Check out our website at RaceTheory.Club [https://derrikecope.club/race-theory-podcast]

Back in Time: West Coast Grand National

We go back in time to 1970 and 1980. This is a time when racing on the west coast provide great platforms to race and to see some outstanding race car drivers perform at high levels. This would also set the tone for a migration of young talent to go to the east coast to pursue stardom. I reflect on race car drivers that made an impact on me and would set standards for drivers to aspire to. There were three drivers from on the west coast and they would win 11 West Coast Grand National championships between them. I expand on other drivers that would use these examples to make their own decisions to fulfill dreams of becoming professional race car drivers. Check out our website at RaceTheory.Club [https://derrikecope.club/race-theory-podcast]

Drivers detrimental to the sport

Elyshia and I get on our soapbox in this episode. We dive straight into the actions of drivers in NASCAR and other racing series that put themselves in a bad light and find the means to justify their actions. This is and has been prevalent in NASCAR for some time. The driver's attitudes and personalities have become so self-serving and continues to put the sport in a bad light. We touch on a multitude of driver's currently as well as some from the past that seem to have continued to drive a narrative that is detrimental to motorsports. Check out our website at RaceTheory.Club [https://derrikecope.club/race-theory-podcast]

Road Racing 101

This episode explores the different elements of the art of road racing. The differences and approaches to teaching methods as well as definitive techniques depending on the type of race car and gearbox application. The optics are something that I spend a great time discussing as well as the process used in breaking down video on a frame-by-frame basis. I also use the data that the AIM Data Analysis provides as a tool to overlay multiple driver's data over one another to provide another visual aid in understanding deficiencies. Understanding the race car driver and their abilities are key, but also how far they can be pushed. There are certain techniques and visual progressions that need to take place to reach the un-tapped potential in the driver. That will provide what is necessary to manipulate a race car instead of just driving it well. Raw God-Given talent is hard to beat, but a great work ethic and desire can go a long way to becoming the race car driver you desire to be. I provide some additional insight on what Elyshia and I have about ready to showcase at track soon, and that is the HOT LAPZ Radical Race Car experience. We will be testing the car this week to finalize the ride along program as well as this new exciting coaching-teaching tool. Check out our website at RaceTheory.Club [https://derrikecope.club/race-theory-podcast]