Yeah but just imagine if they picked one of the F1 cars to be destroyed at the end of the race! (they always pick one to destroy). I'd pay good money to see that.... :biggrin5:
They're back??? I got the following email today: For all Formula 1 fans and those who have supported the F1 Watch Parties be assured there will be a race in Austin in 2012. The official word as of this morning: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 7, 2011 Formula 1â„¢ and Circuit of The Americasâ„¢ Ready to Roll 10-Year Race Contract Brings F1â„¢ Back to the U.S. in 2012; Construction to Resume Immediately AUSTIN, Texas – December 7, 2011 – Circuit of The Americas announced today they have reached an agreement with Formula One Management that ensures the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix remains on the FIA Formula 1 World Championship race calendar. Red McCombs, chairman of McCombs Enterprises and founding partner of Circuit of The Americas stated, “Mr. Ecclestone received his check today. We want to thank the fans supporting us, the local officials and businesses that have encouraged us, the State of Texas, Circuit of The Americas’ staff and Bernie himself. I want to thank and commend Bobby Epstein for getting us across the finish line. Bobby’s perseverance and leadership kept the project on track despite unfair and unfounded criticism.†“Our investors have believed all along that this project has tremendous benefit for our region, and provides a strong economic engine for the future,†stated Epstein, founding partner of Circuit of The Americas. We remain committed to reaching our goal of being valuable community partners as we establish a platform for sports and entertainment. We’re glad that Tavo’s vision of bringing F1 to the people of Texas will become a reality.†Engineering and construction teams working on the track will resume immediately, ensuring completion for the 2012 race date. “We have a substantial number of fans who have expressed interest in buying tickets and hospitality, so today is a win for all of them as much as it is for Circuit of The Americas,†said Steve Sexton, president of Circuit of The Americas. “We encourage everyone to visit our website and register for information. Registered fans will receive the first communication regarding ticket sales plans. In a matter of weeks we will have more exciting news as we unveil our full alendar of world class events.â€
Bernie confirmed that the 2012 Austin race was a go after receiving payment, but how about after 2012? You're a shrewd dewd, Bernie.
Good smooch on the far lefts derriere!:goaljnky But there is no reason we can't be kind to the Earth whilst having a bit of fun, now is there?
All political commentary aside. Coming from a project that was focused on LEED certification for thier buildings there is a plus/minus to this. Plus: Sustainable LEED buildings really do work. They reduce waste (electricity, water, gas, etc...). In essence: They use less "stuff" and keep the monthly bills low. Minus: They are usually 30-40% more expensive to construct on the outset and depending on the size and business function of the building can add 10-20 years to the pay-back period of the initial investment. Assuming a long-term facility (30-50 years before major remodeling or reconstruction) this will make good financial sense. Otherwise it's a bit iffy.
This is certain to spell a 30-50% higher price for a ticket. What a load a crap given this facility will likely not be used on a daily basis, thereby rendering the added investment for construction to be a waste of money. Probably an environmental road block that had to be met before project approval. Afterall, this is in the middle of Nowhere, TX. Will I go, probably. :skep:
Tickets aren't going to be cheap. I'm gonna guess $700 per person for good seats. :nonod: As far as I know LEED certification is not a requirement. Often there are long-term tax incentives offered both Federally and Municipally but I don't know if those apply here or not. Austin isn't really the middle of nowhere...
Generally LEED certification is a good thing. Less energy for buildings means more energy for cars (disclaimer: getting certified is my new year's resolution). It's like spending more money for a MINI Cooper instead of just buying another Toyota Corolla. Plus in a place like Austin, it'll help with local permit approvals. And a lot of LEED buildings are able to qualify for special financing.
Special financing equates to subsidy. Those come via taxes. I know I don't need to go on. And, I've been to Austin. Very nice place.
Circuit of the Americas taking deposits to buy a seat license <rant> I HATE when venues do this. COTA (Circuit of the Americas) is taking $100 deposits that put you on a list in order of payment, to then purchase a personal seat license. With that license, said to cost from $1000 - $5000 you get the "right" to purchase tickets to all the events to be held at the facility for the next 15 years. There is no guide to what seats are where. There is no guide to what the actual tickets will cost. This is a blatant money grab. Personal Seat Licenses are a terrible thing in my book. As much as I want to go the F1 race there I fear that people like me, a real fan on a modest income, will be priced out of the possibility of going. So send in your $100 today so you can then spend another few grand in March. All this just to have the ability to buy a ticket later at a prices that have yet to be disclosed. </rant>
I share your frustration with this practice.... and once there you are treated as what you are now: a prop for the TV coverage..
yea I was reading and thought neat might have to travel to TX for some racing. I think not now, wow had my hopes up
Though obviously a money grab tactic, I agree, this step looks to me to be about the most expensive seats and aimed specifically at those with lots of cash who would buy those expensive seats anyway.
Yes, the wife and I looked at this and laughed. Made our decision easier for us. For what they're trying to charge, I can fit in a European vacation and an F1 weekend at a GP site with a bit more history to it.
I keep reading "PSL" as "PMSL", and I ain't gonna change! COTA folks are way too greedy! I'm with Jinky: Trips to other venues are looking better and better... Eager to hear about ticket prices for the New Jersey event in '13. _Dave_
Anyone that purchases a PSL at COTA without knowing what the actual ticket prices will be and without any guarantees of an F1 race past 2012 deserves to lose their $1000-$5000 investment. Premium seats on a long straight too...here they come there they go, how exciting! opcorn:
I agree, they are out of their minds. I bought grandstand #1 seats on the front straight at Montreal for this year. They are "premium" seats and were $500 each. I live in Dallas and it is probably not going to make sense for me to watch the Austin race in person.