Finally here. My first time covering the Formula One Championship and it is everything I was hoping for. Incredible facilities, and tons of stuff to look at. My head has been on a swivel since the moment I walked through the turnstile. Honestly didn’t think I’d know anybody here, but just a few minutes into my paddock walk about, I ran into two photographers I admire very much, Alex Wong and Jamey Price. Always more fun to go somewhere you know people.
Not a ton of activity on Thursdays, and no action on track. Just FIA system tests, and the teams all getting ready for the weekend. Which includes some pit stop practice, which was pretty cool to witness. Access is very limited on pit lane every day except Thursday, so today was really my only opportunity to get an up close look at the teams in action. It was also my opportunity to do a full track walk. Which I did. If you know me or have seen me, you know I carry around a considerable amount of heft…so getting around the joint wasn’t the easiest trick…but I managed ok. Just a small blister or two, and very tired legs. No big deal.
Tomorrow we have two practice sessions, so tomorrow nights post will include some insanely fast F1 cars being driven in considerable anger. Today, just a few snapshots from around this incredible facility. Hope you enjoy them.
The media center is massive. At least a dozen languages being spoken in this room, right now.
Scrutineering all day
Front Jack man for Sauber, or electronica DJ?
At the ready
Quick change
How’d you like your office to be adorned with a huge rendition of your face?
Sergio Perez
4 time World Champion, Sebastian Vettel
Turn 19
The tower
Don’t see that everyday. School bus races would be pretty cool.
Up the long straight after exiting T11
Looking over the crest back towards T9
Up the hill at T8 and T9
Dow the front stretch looking from T1
Never realized these big logos were hand painted. Always thought they were stencils.
What lucky trio will stand up here on Sunday?