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The Fray
Hey There,
So what is the Fray? The Fray is a t-jet slot car race that started in 1997 as an invitational between California clubs. Since then it has grown to be one of the biggest races anywhere. I guess last year the ECHORRS Challenge boasted a larger turnout. The Fray this year is expecting over a hundred racers, that would put it back on top. We'll see. In my mind, I wish I could attend both races, as some do. I think a little rivalry is a good thing.
So what are the rules? You can find them on the Fray homesite.
Fray cars are also known as Super Stock in other parts of the country. Here is a picture of last years finalists.
Where is it? It's at the Humbolt County Fairgrounds in Ferndale, California. This is just north of the Redwood Forrest Preserve in northern California. During the race participants have the whole fairgrounds to themselves. The town is a sleepy Victorian gem surounded by agriculture. No night life here, just racing.
How do you get there? Google earth has clear directions. Here is a shot of the actual building.
Most people that need to fly, land in Sacramento or Eureka. It's a longer drive from Sacramento, but the country is beautiful. Besides that the puddle jumper to Eureka from a major airport can be expensive.
Where do you stay? Most racers stay in Fortuna. There are a cluster of hotels that suround a great little eatery just off the 101. Last year we must of had 30 racers at the same table. What a blast!
So there is the scoop!
Let me know, Serge
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Some Fray History
Posted by tabco on Fri, 2012-01-27 09:08For some additional information on past Frays, see the HO World web site, under "archives". There are several articles available.
I am Impressed Serge!
Posted by mgbbrown on Sat, 2012-01-28 10:37Always drink upstream from the herd. -Will Rogers
Custom Controllers
Posted by Serge on Sat, 2012-01-28 13:21Here is one of the custom controllers Sparky1 made for us last year's Fray. He started out with a Parma Turbo and added a 90 ohm resistor. Although it works great on my track, it wasn't sensitive enough for the rigors of national level competition.
Sparky Turbo
Fortunately for me, I brought my Professor Motor as a back up. It was a little quirky but I can't complain.
This year I'll be trying two different resistors form BRP. I ordered a 100 ohm straight resistor and a 120 ohm "nitro". The "nitro" is very sensitive at first and accelerates quickly to top end. I'll give you guys a rundown after I try them.
So I sure some of you are asking, "Why aren't your brake wires connected Serge?"
I'm practicing without brakes. Most big races including the Fray does not allow brakes. Why? It helps even the playing field while keeping the cost down. Essentially it neutralizes the advantage of very expensive electronic controllers.
Thanks for the comment Tony. I've got a new project I just finished. I'll post later.
Later, Serge
"That's all I can stands cause I can't stands no more" Popeye the Sailor
THANKS Serge!
Posted by mgbbrown on Sat, 2012-01-28 17:03Thanks for the follow-up Serge! I am thinking that the BRP Nitro resistor added to what 1Sparky has tweeked would be a difficult to beat set-up. I look forward to hearing about it. Your trackside tray or whatever you call it is very nice! A good project indeed. I am sure it could be adapted too for a roll of tape and still fit in your pit box. You have given me an idea for a vintage one out of a gray metal compartmented tray that I recently found. Please keep us posted! God Bless! Tony mgbbrown
Always drink upstream from the herd. -Will Rogers