Geez guys, it's Hugh's 1st post. Probably is his real name.
Hugh,
The objective of qualifying is to set the actual grid for a race. It's the time when drivers attempt to turn their fastest lap possible to be positioned nearer the front of the pack. Usually during a qualifying run you can find a relatively open section of track free of traffic to turn some fast laps. Thus demonstrating what you and the car are capable of. Some guys (with lots of money) will put a brand new set of tires on their car for the qualification runs (often there are 2 qual. sessions). And, a brand new set on for the race.
The farther forward you are on the starting grid based upon you qualification time, the less traffic you have to deal with to get to the front of the field and place on the podium 1st, 2nd or 3rd.
This IS different from a race in that during the qual session your goal isn't to lead the field. Rather, to find a traffic free area to go for several fast laps to place yourself on the grid. During a race, it's all about 'managing' the traffic you encounter and trying to use that traffic to your advantage in maintaining a lead over the next fastest car behind you. Chances are VERY LIKELY your fastest race lap will be SLOWER then you qualification lap. Unless you're at the front of the pack starting out. This is why 'lap records' are only counted when run UNDER RACING conditions. Qual times are not considered for track lap records.
Qualification sessions are 15 or 20 minutes long. Which means, get out there and get it done while also working on car setup.
Actual races for ICSCC Championship points are 30 minute long. Which means, deal with and use traffic to your advantage, maintain your pace and drive within your capabilities to finish all the laps in the race.
HUGH - COME OUT TO THE RACE at Pacific August 1/2 and see it all happening!
Look for a black with gold numbers Formula Continental #36 and say hello