Wild Bunch Race Format!
About the Wild Bunch, the format that we race under has changed substantially. The reason for this change actually came about based on the observations of a number of Wild Bunch members.
The Wild Bunch is always trying to get in more $ and runs (seat time) for our members. To do this, we had to come up with something new, some new way of running the show. The new format we decided on is called a Race within a Race, a two day affair. This new format revised the traditional ladder system and our Wild Bunch payout in a number of ways.
First, the show itself. The problem is that under the old ladder style of elimination, each time you race, the field (thus the show) is halved (16 cars, then 8, then 4, then W & RU).
We have altered this old format to provide greater spectator appeal by having all the Wild Bunch members show for each of the first three rounds (16 cars, then 16, then 16, then W & RU)! The ladder still exists inside the three 16 car rounds, but the round losers show up for what are called “grudge” rounds. Their incentive is that they get more seat time and some cash, win or lose, for each addition round. The winner and runner up still race in a fourth round for the Wild Bunch $ win, trophy and bragging rights.
Second, how the show runs. We show up on Saturday (if the track is open on Saturday) and do two scheduled time trials. Then on Sunday, we do one scheduled time trial (approximately 11:00) and then jump into elimination at 1:00. Then the full show appears again at 2:00 and at 3:00 (three full rounds, all cars) with a final by two cars at around 4:00. Because each round takes about 20 to 30 minutes, this format is very fast paced, loud, noisy and keeps the fans attention. The purpose is to not let the fans out of the stands for more that 20/35 minutes between each WB round and provide serious non-stop action for them in a tight, compact two to two and one-half hour start period. The between round times may be adjusted to allow for cooling, etc. and at the connivance of the track or WB.
The Third issue is: WB racer $ payout. We have changed our payout structure to make a statement that we have the best dollar reward in the Division. We are an open association, if your car runs the Wild Bunch E.T. number for car type you drive and pay the association fee you can race with us. We pay $1,000.00 to win and very good round money for the racers still in the ladder. The grudge racers, who lost in the first and second rounds receive $25.00 per round for their grudge round efforts. Although clearly not a fortune, this $50.00 total is more then they receive under the ladder system (the big $0) plus provides valuable seat time, tuning time, and additional show for the fans, which means additional booking for us. The Grudge rounds are a ton of fun because they are based on the old “I can beat that guy” or “I’m calling you out” theory and therefore provide some very interesting racing.
Fourth, management of the program. With the set format, except for time scheduled adjustments with the track, the Wild Bunch handles the majority of the logistical work. Getting the cars lined up, the individual rounds, and the like. Track provides the timing, starting line, and finish crews. Also, the car, driver and one pit person get in free. Camping is also free.