Matt Romanowski

I don't know why this video was sped up, but it's a great view of what to do at Lime Rock. Thomas Merrill has so many little things right in this. I have the data and original video and they are amazing. He put on a clinic at LRP and Laguna Seca a few weeks ago.

ProCoach

Thomas, “the Fastest Man in San Francisco,” is a longtime Skip Barber instructor and terrific coach for a variety of folks, including some in the Ferrari Challenge.

That’s got to be some pretty data, for sure! Thanks for sharing the video.

Mahler9th

I saw that on the Racer website just this morning. I am finally learning to take advantage of some of the great perspectives and info on that site. Encouraged/inspired by Marshall Pruett's involvement. MP is a true fan of the sport, and I can say I knew him when... I think he still lives very near me here in Norcal (really more likely on an airplane).

Like Peter said, my impression of Thomas is that he is an excellent and talented driver and coach. I try to send him customers whenever I can. His parents are longterm PCA folk (they were active time trialers back in the day). I will never forget my first time at Laguna in '95-- I totaled a car. That Saturday night our PCA region had a big part at the Merrill's place. It was a very memorable party. The were really gracious hosts. I have never seen chocolate covered strawberries that big. The fun I had that night helped me take my wreck with a grain of salt so I was able to jump in my other car for Sunday's sessions and time trial.

Oh and it is cool to see a really well-driven lap at LRP... the place where I first drove in anger back in 1987-1988 when I first joined PCA. No AX, no karting. Just three viewings of the Skip Barber video and then a dive into the deep end.

Great video... but I wish I could see more of his hands.

Veloce Raptor

He is a great shoe, and I've heard a very good coach too. Thanks for the video!

skxf430

Here is an even better video of Thomas at Laguna starting from 27th and going for the win.

Matt Romanowski

His drives were impressive all weekend in both LS and LRP. His data is very impressive and he was the man to beat. Too bad he didn't have a ride at Detroit as I'm sure it would have been interesting to see him drive there.

ajcjr

Says video is no longer available

ProCoach

Here's the qualy pole lap:

Matt Romanowski

Just as impressive as the lap, he was sent out at the very end of the session with just enough time to make the flyer. Notice the end of the lap is with the checker. Great job by Mike Cope to send him out at the right time, in a gap, and fantastic driving by Thomas to get it done.

Geneman

unbelievable... golf is looking better and better...

ajcjr

Wow , great driving

hf1

This was not racing -- it was clubbing baby seals. I noticed he made quite a few passes where he was not ahead at turn in. He'd have had a lifetime worth of 13's if he was doing PCA CR.

Mahler9th

Not so sure about clubbing baby seals... don't like to think about that.

That LS video seems a bit weird-- maybe fun and games with video. are afoot.

He certainly seems to understand his tires and his rig.

But I think TM could lap LS in a little red wagon faster than quite a few people with Porsche factory cars. I wouldn't be surprised if he had lapped LS in a little red wagon and a variety of other interesting conveyances, perhaps with some Skip Barber colleagues having fun.

I have a feeling that there is not one crack in the pavement there that he hasn't known, doesn't know and/or cannot anticipate.

Thanks for posting.

If I wanted to optimize my LS lapping and wanted some help, he would be a top choice. I wouldn't start with data. I'd start with video and conversation.

ProCoach

And so would he...

PGas32

Here we go...