Heart For Hearth 2013 - Set a Record, Win a Car! - September 22, 2013

[Cab0oze]

Have fun guys! Wish I could be there :(
... but I'm packing to head out to the swiss alps, so I'm not too upset lol

[Seshan]

What's going on, we still doing the zoom zoom?

[JPJPJP]

That's what I was wondering. Maybe they're getting the official numbers and trying to think of something cool to write? The parade lap was pretty epic!

[paulabreu]

Are they announcing the winner o f the 2014 3 today?

[RobertL]

Aw man this looks so awesome! I'm bummed I'm busy with work today

[SKyactivmanny]

Theres a mofuggin mandarin on the other side of the airport! Tm3 unite.

[Aitch]

I am wondering if this thread is open to the public or members only? It may be getting a lot of media attention. Might want to keep it PG

That was the PG version.

[JPJPJP]

Any word on the official numbers?

[sudz]

I was hearing that we were around 350

[Chrisinski]

That was fun.

[hex]

Organizers should've brought all drivers together so that they can tell everyone the rules for the parade lap. That lap was a mess.

But fun nonetheless!

Too bad we didn't break the record.

[jazzman83]

Had a great time. Person in front of me was too nervous to keep it tight otherwise a ton of fun. Bit cold

[Ravester]

Seems like more than that, but I was shivering so much, perhaps I counted twice!!

[jcutner]

Did I miss something at the "end"?
Once we all parked and went to get food
It seems like people just went back to their cars and left at 11:30ish
Was that it?
Not sure if it was just badly coordinated or organized
I thought we were supposed to gather so the aerial shots could happen
Unless I missed that

[Robjohn2010]

Who won the car?

[lcianf01]

Who won the car?

Robert something V. I think

[Jackal]

Any word on the official numbers?

354 was what I heard. I think it was $15,000 raised by our group. In total this event raised over $69,000 so great job everyone!

[Kiewan]

Today was fun. Can't wait for next year. Lucky Richard v-------- .that woman ran up last min and sniped it.

[tmpz]

I won the $200 Nextmod gift certificate :D

I'll post my dashcam clips soon.

It was fun, I met some new members and some old ones. Thanks for Ami and TM3 crew for organizing this!

[sw33tb3rry]

http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y415/aaGzz/F26CE030-6CA8-43D7-A4A6-207094644323-939-000000732C805563_zps465af7da.jpg

http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y415/aaGzz/0BC3AC0C-C86F-46DF-8AD8-87EF396BCCDF-939-000000733F36BC6B_zpsba8cc051.jpg

http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y415/aaGzz/8BB9C270-EA8B-4087-B8D5-0A52E1706560-939-000000734EA5258E_zpseffc0512.jpg

[ottoyu34]

I had a lot of fun! Thanks everyone.

[omalak]

Great event, a bit crazy at times. Unfortunate we didn't break the record. Prehaps Mazda needs to come on board earlier and possibly use their distribution list to email people.

Looking forward to next year!

[babyblue3]

This was my first TM3 event, and I had a lot of fun. Wish we could have broken the record, but there were still a lot of cars!

[Mitchell3]

Big thanks to Ami and the organizing crew for putting this together. Regardless of the record attempt failing it was way fun. Cruise was an awesome sight too once far west crew merged in with the west enders. Just a single line of Mazda lights down the 401!

The lapping was actually stressful, at least in the back.. trying to keep 1 car length while everyone speeds up and slams on their brakes.

[jaynsue13]

First time out great time. Thank god for that screaming Volunteer to keep us in line as we drove by LOL

[leungalv]

Big thanks to Ami and the organizing crew for putting this together. Regardless of the record attempt failing it was way fun. Cruise was an awesome sight too once far west crew merged in with the west enders. Just a single line of Mazda lights down the 401!

The lapping was actually stressful, at least in the back.. trying to keep 1 car length while everyone speeds up and slams on their brakes.

Was that me? Was it near the end? Sorry ... I didn't think I was slamming on the brakes ... then again, I also did only get an hour and bit sleep.

[Mitchell3]

Was that me? Was it near the end? Sorry ... I didn't think I was slamming on the brakes ... then again, I also did only get an hour and bit sleep.

No not trying to single anyone out. Just weird instructions to speed up in corners and take straights slow. It was inevitable to be hard on the brakes when leaving 1 car space.

[Zoomer Guy]

First time for me and what fun! I almost forgot - perhaps a reminder email might be a good idea. Next year we could break the record. Suggestion to organizers, to get info to drivers, why not use an FM radio signal? Can't wait for next year!

[cwp_sedan]

Did I miss something at the "end"?
Once we all parked and went to get food
It seems like people just went back to their cars and left at 11:30ish
Was that it?
Not sure if it was just badly coordinated or organized
I thought we were supposed to gather so the aerial shots could happen
Unless I missed that

A lot of people got impatient and wanted to leave. We probably could have done pictures but it was broken by that point.

It was organized in the sense that people weren't supposed to leave but we have no control over a pressuring mob lol.


Today was fun. Can't wait for next year. Lucky Richard v-------- .that woman ran up last min and sniped it.

That woman was Heather from Mazda Canada. She had all of the details regarding the contest so she made sure it was run the way it should have been.

Most of us who actually hung around were definitely hoping that those who left would be out of the running. I guess it wasn't meant to be true.


First time out great time. Thank god for that screaming Volunteer to keep us in line as we drove by LOL

There were many volunteers yelling. At one point I was yelling at everyone to keep 2 car lengths lol.

[lcianf01]

I won the $200 Nextmod gift certificate :D

I'll post my dashcam clips soon.

It was fun, I met some new members and some old ones. Thanks for Ami and TM3 crew for organizing this!

I brought you some Goodluck.

[cwp_sedan]

No not trying to single anyone out. Just weird instructions to speed up in corners and take straights slow. It was inevitable to be hard on the brakes when leaving 1 car space.

I agree. I'm not sure who those instructions originated from but I feel the helpers were just trying to keep the gaps smaller.

If everyone took a constant pace on a steady speed it would have been more uniform and steady. The speed up/slow down made it harder to keep the distance consistent.

[Thrizzl3]

well done today everyone. Even though we didn't beat the world record i did have tons of fun. stupid cold weather though. Congrats to the individual who won the 3 year lease on the mazda 3. Can't wait til next year.
S.F.W. great work man i know you barely got sleep but you tried your best to achieve a goal. $15k is alot of money raised. I would be proud of that.

I'm going back to bed.

[Stathakos]

what would have helped is if everyone had a radio. lol Even the President of Mazda Canada or whoever that was in a grey 2014 mazda 6 had a 6 car gap at one point. What should have happened was just stop everyone. Put people in groups of 2 (side by side) and just set them off two by two going like 10 or 20 km/hr bumper to bumper, no touching the brakes at all

[joetabasco]

was a great event again this year. Good to see some people I recognize as I am in Kingston and never make it to T.O. meets. I think I will organize a Kingston Pre-Meet next year to see how many people we can get from K-Town. We need to beat the record next year. I agree with everyone about the parade lap. lots of fun, but too fast. Everyone stay in 2nd gear and idle around at 10kph. that will keep everyone bunched up and not onthe brakes.

[joetabasco]

P.S. What happened to the Photoshoot?

[asyed]

Great meet guys.. was lots of fun. Even if we didnt make the record ( Which I had a feeling the moment we started the parade lap), its still an awesome site to see over 300 Mazdas ( mostly mazda3s/speed3s) in one place. And it was for a good cause too.


Also had fun cruising with the east meet.


I will try to see If I can edit the video tonight but I might have to push it to next weekend because I have alot of assignments to do for next week.



Also were the same guys who did the aerial photography last year the same as the ones doing the boom truck/aerial photography this year.... And was this for a commercial of some sorts? :P I noticed that they were making footage of the 2014 mazda3 by itself while everyone was having lunch...



Cant wait for next year. I think We should start promoting this event earlier next year ( like Mid July). I also regret not handing out enough flyers ( I still have a few left)

[marchz24]

Besides it being cold it was a good time.
Thanks to everyone who was part of it.
So why didn't we break the record?
Not enough Mazda's or was it the not being close enough during the laps?
What was the previous record?

[Twhite71]

Big thanks to Ami and the organizing crew for putting this together. Regardless of the record attempt failing it was way fun. Cruise was an awesome sight too once far west crew merged in with the west enders. Just a single line of Mazda lights down the 401!

The lapping was actually stressful, at least in the back.. trying to keep 1 car length while everyone speeds up and slams on their brakes.

+1

[S.F.W.]

P.S. What happened to the Photoshoot?
time & logistics. We ran out of time, so we could not get past the other runway. That runway was being used for the 5K On The Runway and had runners moving.

[loki]

Hammered.....


good job to all the volunteers!

And to all those that signed up and actually showed up....props

[YYZ_GUY]

Great day for my first TM3 event. A couple of pics from the Tower.

/Users/chrisstevens/Pictures/iPhoto Library.photolibrary/Masters/2013/09/22/20130922-163405/DSC_0054.JPG
/Users/chrisstevens/Pictures/iPhoto Library.photolibrary/Masters/2013/09/22/20130922-163405/DSC_0049.JPG

[greyseason]

What a great day! Thanks goes out to Ami and all the volunteers! 'Twas a early morning among the barren highway but the rolling shots were a plenty. Met a lot new people today and put some faces to names geobur :p

I really thought Mr. Wilson was going to win the car. I guess there's always next year!

To bad we didn't break the record, I could have swore it looked like 500 cars. Here's some pics I took

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/23/asubaqus.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/23/4y3eda2e.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/23/3evydaze.jpghttp://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/23/mamyda9a.jpg

[YYZ_GUY]

Total newb. Failed at posting again. Ooops.

[ValdesX]

Anyone know if they will be posting any of the professional shots from the event? I watched a guy get a real nice shot of my three. XD

[catman]

Total newb. Failed at posting again. Ooops.

Sorry this might be obvious but where are the posted winners and the official numbers? Also when the pictures go up will we be informed?

Amazing job tho to everyone who set it up well done and everyone was well behaved with the exception of a few drivers but overall amazing guys!!!!

[S.F.W.]

Sorry this might be obvious but where are the posted winners and the official numbers? Also when the pictures go up will we be informed?

Amazing job tho to everyone who set it up well done and everyone was well behaved with the exception of a few drivers but overall amazing guys!!!!

I will get the name of the name of the official grand prize winner. I have the,log books with final counts will review and post.

[Kiyomi]

imo: the parade lap was fun, but went on for too long, not to mention that keeping a 1-2 car length was near impossible when people are speeding up and slamming on their brakes.

next time, maybe take a count at the gate to see if we broke the record like some of the members i talked to today said. if not, then maybe just do the car aerial photoshoot instead. alot of people including myself are bumbed that we didnt get to do the picture like last year. overall, good time and nice to catch up with a few tm3ers. big thanks to Ami and the mod crew and staff/volunteers.

[Seshan]

Next year I think they should just spell out Zoom Zoom and not bother with the parade, some people where to worried about getting to close, (Breaking when there is still 2 cars lengths between them and the car infront of them) and the stopping then speeding up then slamming on breaks was getting annoying. Imagine with 800 people 0.0 it would be hectic. It was still fun for the first couple times around :) I really wanted to spell Zoom Zoom on the run way though :( Theres always next year :)

[peterm15]

The parade lap was part of the record. So we needed to do that.

[omalak]

Either way great event, we didn't break the record, but we can try again next year. There are definitely lessons to be learned from this event. I am sure next year will be even bigger and better.

The parade lap was a bit chaotic for sure because you didn't really know how the driver ahead of you was going to react. I myself had to accelerate then brake hard at times.

The one thing that needs fixing for sure next year is the signs the volunteers were holding on the runways, you could not see them in permanent marker, should be more visible next time.

I still had fun. Look forward to hopefully volunteering next year (if there is one)

And yes i think Mazda Canada needs to play a larger role in marketing the event (and much earlier).

[Mitchell3]

I think it would have helped if we had opened it up to all mazdas day one. A lot of owners probably dismissed it as a Mazda 3 thing early on.

Would have helped if everyone had radios but a bit unrealistic. Everyone should have gotten cruise control too :chuckle. If we do it again, I think it will run smoother.

Also want to extend thanks to those from far out as well like the Ottawa and Montreal guys. If I lived that far I know I'd think twice about coming. You guys are troopers!

[Tahna Los]

Kudos to everyone who made it. Also my first TM3 meet and I hope to do this again next year.

As for everyone who DIDN'T make it, perhaps the organizers can post a list? So we can egg their houses or their cars or something....:chuckle

Kidding really. But let's really try to break the record next year! I also heard a lot of logistical complaints which in all honesty, is part of the experience. Next year, hopefully we can make it a more organized and fun event for all involved!!!

[robl]

Big thanks to Ami and all of the TM3 folks who worked so hard on organizing this event!
Who was the Mod that I talked to several times today while in line waiting to get in and throughout the day (I was in the white Gen2 Speed with my son and daughter in the back)? I never managed to get your name in the several times that we chatted today!

I was also glad to meet a few folks, including Sebastian from Quebec.

I agree with folks mentioning the gap being a challenge, however as I'm sure most had notcied there were some no-so-confident drivers in the group this year, which I believe could have tied into the inconsistent gaps and speeds...but I think that with larger groups such as this we would run into this type of issue.
My only issue during the laps was that I wanted to go MUCH faster!!! ;-)

I see a track day coming soon.

Anyhow, thanks again to everyone on their efforts in making this a fun event!

Cheers,
Rob

[dietsprite]

Shout out to Ami and the volunteers great job !

[boo-ninja]

Big thanks to Ami and all of the TM3 folks who worked so hard on organizing this event!
Who was the Mod that I talked to several times today while in line waiting to get in and throughout the day (I was in the white Gen2 Speed with my son and daughter in the back)? I never managed to get your name in the several times that we chatted today!

I was also glad to meet a few folks, including Sebastian from Quebec.

I agree with folks mentioning the gap being a challenge, however as I'm sure most had notcied there were some no-so-confident drivers in the group this year, which I believe could have tied into the inconsistent gaps and speeds...but I think that with larger groups such as this we would run into this type of issue.
My only issue during the laps was that I wanted to go MUCH faster!!! ;-)

I see a track day coming soon.

Anyhow, thanks again to everyone on their efforts in making this a fun event!

Cheers,
Rob

I believe I was beside you, and you were talking to AITCH

[boo-ninja]

This was my first meet, although we didn't hit the record still was an awesome time. So cool to see all of the mazda's! Was really impressed with the organization of the event, always knew what was happening and where I was going! Great event with a great cause, good job to all those involved! Can't wait to see all of the pictures and videos!

[Genpu_Mz3]

real good time today! thanks for organizing this!!!

now.. wheres all the photo's? :P

[Aitch]

Big thanks to Ami and all of the TM3 folks who worked so hard on organizing this event!
Who was the Mod that I talked to several times today while in line waiting to get in and throughout the day (I was in the white Gen2 Speed with my son and daughter in the back)? I never managed to get your name in the several times that we chatted today!

I was also glad to meet a few folks, including Sebastian from Quebec.

I agree with folks mentioning the gap being a challenge, however as I'm sure most had notcied there were some no-so-confident drivers in the group this year, which I believe could have tied into the inconsistent gaps and speeds...but I think that with larger groups such as this we would run into this type of issue.
My only issue during the laps was that I wanted to go MUCH faster!!! ;-)

I see a track day coming soon.

Anyhow, thanks again to everyone on their efforts in making this a fun event!

Cheers,
Rob

I suppose that was me?

[ken6214]

real good time today! thanks for organizing this!!!

now.. wheres all the photo's? :P

Some on Instagram!

[Aitch]

real good time today! thanks for organizing this!!!

now.. wheres all the photo's? :P

Started a thread here: http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=72818

[joetabasco]

time & logistics. We ran out of time, so we could not get past the other runway. That runway was being used for the 5K On The Runway and had runners moving.

I figured as much. As last year though, ran really smoothly from my point of view (mid pack).

[vinceb73]

The gang of mazda3quebec from Montreal...ad a blast...crazy day...realy happy to be part with my team and you guys to the event.

Love my day

[etno]

[QUOTE=robl;1125607]Big thanks to Ami and all of the TM3 folks who worked so hard on organizing this event!
Who was the Mod that I talked to several times today while in line waiting to get in and throughout the day (I was in the white Gen2 Speed with my son and daughter in the back)? I never managed to get your name in the several times that we chatted today!

I was also glad to meet a few folks, including Sebastian from Quebec.

I agree with folks mentioning the gap being a challenge, however as I'm sure most had notcied there were some no-so-confident drivers in the group this year, which I believe could have tied into the inconsistent gaps and speeds...but I think that with larger groups such as this we would run into this type of issue.
My only issue during the laps was that I wanted to go MUCH faster!!! ;-)

I see a track day coming soon.

Anyhow, thanks again to everyone on their efforts in making this a fun event!

Cheers,
Rob[/QUOTE)


glad to meet you too rob ,

Sebas

[SKyactivmanny]

For my first tm3 meet it was an incredible experience. Had mass amounts of fun at the premeet and at the meet it self. 10/10 will do again and we need a track day! 30km/h is wayyyy to slow.

[Robjohn2010]

Some on Instagram!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7TqvWjP2k

[Stathakos]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7TqvWjP2k

0:54 thats me with my hazards on like a retard, and I make another appearance at 3:29 LOOK AT THAT GAP LOL

[breakfasteatre]

wow, 800+ registered, 350 show up. way to go


the parade lap should have been 5 mph, slow enough to take the turns without braking.


as well, after the first lap, since it would have been pretty obvious we didnt have enough cars to get the record, we should have set the cars up for the photo

oh well, still had an awesome day, hilarious time in the car during the lap, good times all around

[Tuscani01]

Had a great time out there today! Thanks for organizing everything Ami!

Ended up winning the tinting prize from Audio Heaven. Good timing considering I was ready to get it done!

[m3rk]

I had a blast even though it was so damn cold! As mentioned by others, some things could have gone better. I really hope next year will be the year! I will definitely volunteer :)

One thing I thought of while waiting in line to get in was maybe we could have had two waiting areas to get in. For example, I don't even know how far back the line stretched down the road and we squeezed as much as possible by the entrance. Maybe we could have had a secondary waiting area at the Oshawa mall where one organizer awaits a call to give a go ahead for more people to drive down. If there were 800 cars, it could have reached down close to the 401 lol. Just something I thought of.

Nonetheless it was a great effort and experience! A big round of applause for the admins and volunteer groups!

[trulankan]

I won the $200 Nextmod gift certificate :D

I'll post my dashcam clips soon.

It was fun, I met some new members and some old ones. Thanks for Ami and TM3 crew for organizing this!

nice, congrats!

[Karmaspeed]

Props to Ami and the volunteers; If you think about it if we did have over 800 we probably wouldn't have enough room on the runways.
I say forget the record and keep it similar to what was done last year; so next year maybe do the zoom zoom again and all the participants grouped together creating the mazda M logo next to the zoom zoom.

Oh yeah I also witnessed that rx7 (red/black) spin out at the first left turn after the main straightaway. Just happy that he didn't spin into another car or worse into one of the volunteers; DUMBASS

[Bully Dog Racing]

Kudos to Ami and all those involved in putting this on.

Had a great time and am looking forward to the next one!

[jchc91]

Thank you everyone for attending the event.

It was my first big TM3 meet and I was not disappointed... Except for when people got impatient and started to leave.

It was a good success and although we did not beat the record we still raised ~$15,000 which is superbly impressive.

Thanks to the volunteers and Ami who made sure this event ran as smoothly as possible, even though there were many ups and downs. But that's just the side result of an event on such a large scale.

I hope this event will take place again next year. I will be definitely attending.

Nice meeting 07Carbon, Vincent, Trunkulan, Foxy, (I'm terrible with names, the asian guy with 07carbon and I LOL), Dave(Noob?). And some other few people I really don't remember and I feel bad about.. LOL

[Jsquared]

Great event! Well done by all volunteers. Looking forward to finding some of the footage Mazda shot yesterday.

If anyone finds it, please link us!

[r4BBiT]

Great event as expected. If we compare it to last year we at least tripled the amount of cars so the turnout was still pretty good in my eyes.

Thanks to everyone; we raised quite a bit of money :)

...

I finally caught up on my sleep :D

[FoXy]

I think the event went well but there were lots of lessons learned.

It was a LOT of hard work by Ami and the small amount of ppl who volunteered ahead of time and the volunteers at the event. I wish we could have made the record but I am not shocked at how little ppl showed up. People just suck.

I felt chaotic from the moment I got up at 5 to getting there at 6, running around like mad, and leaving there at 2. Ugh, I went home and laid in bed for an hour just to try to warm up, I was chilled throughout and was insanely tired.

Thanks Ami, You did great. I'm enjoying my new jacket :P

[Seshan]

The parade lap was part of the record. So we needed to do that.

I know, but I think it's unrealistic to get 350 cars all within 1 car length when you have a lot of nervous people, I can't even imagine doing it with 800 cars 0.0 Maybe next year instructions could be handed out on how to do the parade lap properly. Or just do a couples rounds around the track not trying to beat the record, and then set up for the Zoom Zoom shot. I still had fun though, and will be going next year :D

[asyed]

IMO I think not many people will show up if we don't try to beat the record next year.


Notice how many more members signed up this year compared to last year. Not many people are going to get up this early just to get a picture of their car.

Either we do the record or come with something more original than doing the zoom zoom thing again.

[ottoyu34]

Regarding the car length discussion:


http://youtu.be/Suugn-p5C1M

So, we just doing a 300+ cars version of this.

[greyseason]

How about if we created a thread for ideas on what to do similar/differently next year?

I think that a 10am start time will bring out the masses. Everybody was bitching about the time, but we still made it. Imagine if people could actually wake up at a normal time, get the kids, wash the car, then set a record. Also i loved the idea of spelling something and really liked the idea i heard for this year. Someone said that with 800 cars we would have the space, and its true. The only gap during the parade that was supposed to be there was the length of the straight. The rest of the space was filled with cars.

HIGHLY unlikely but how hard would it be to close a road (stevenson) for an hour or so, So that the parade lap could go through the airport, and down the street :chuckle then back. Messy i know

Anyway Ami count me in for next years volunteers. Had a blast with everybody yesterday

[robl]

Hey Foxy,

My kids (especially my daughter) love your car...it stands out in the crowd!

Cheers,
Rob.

I think the event went well but there were lots of lessons learned.

It was a LOT of hard work by Ami and the small amount of ppl who volunteered ahead of time and the volunteers at the event. I wish we could have made the record but I am not shocked at how little ppl showed up. People just suck.

I felt chaotic from the moment I got up at 5 to getting there at 6, running around like mad, and leaving there at 2. Ugh, I went home and laid in bed for an hour just to try to warm up, I was chilled throughout and was insanely tired.

Thanks Ami, You did great. I'm enjoying my new jacket :P

[robl]

I believe I was beside you, and you were talking to AITCH

Ah cool...thanks.
And thanks for coming down from Barrie...if only all that registered had your dedication!

Cheers,
Rob.

[robl]

As long as I could fit it into my schedule I'd be good to volunteer as well next time!

Cheers,
Rob.

How about if we created a thread for ideas on what to do similar/differently next year?

I think that a 10am start time will bring out the masses. Everybody was bitching about the time, but we still made it. Imagine if people could actually wake up at a normal time, get the kids, wash the car, then set a record. Also i loved the idea of spelling something and really liked the idea i heard for this year. Someone said that with 800 cars we would have the space, and its true. The only gap during the parade that was supposed to be there was the length of the straight. The rest of the space was filled with cars.

HIGHLY unlikely but how hard would it be to close a road (stevenson) for an hour or so, So that the parade lap could go through the airport, and down the street :chuckle then back. Messy i know

Anyway Ami count me in for next years volunteers. Had a blast with everybody yesterday

[Elusivellama]

What an experience, that was a great deal of fun! Not only did I get to see a ton of awesome looking Mazdas (props to the hard core guys from Quebec, driving all the way here to the event - you guys are awesome), I got to meet up with familiar faces and catch up on things. The venue at Oshawa Airport may not appeal to some people, but I loved the wide, open space of the airport and the brisk wind that was blowing (I personally found it very calming).

Next year, I can think of a few things to better the experience:

- registration requires payment
- show up at 9:30 ~ 10am
- Oshawa Airport is barely an hour away from Toronto, and that's where the Heart for Hearth event was being held, so I think we don't really need to change the location
- if at all possible, email confirmation from all participants, maybe a dedicated email list to automatically send out reminders as the event draws near


Let's do better next year, guys. $20 is a very small amount to pay, and it goes to a good cause. The experience of showing up and participating in the parade lap (or whatever planned for next year) was already worth more than $20.

[vinceb73]

Thanks man!!! We gonna be there next year ...:)drove 1300 km its nothing for that cause



Not only did I get to see a ton of awesome looking Mazdas (props to the hard core guys from Quebec, driving all the way here to the event - you guys are awesome),

[FD22]

First of all, thanks to all that actually came out! Definitely disappointing looking at the list of people registered and seeing how many weren't crossed off :( but what can you do; in the end it's their choice.

Second of all, big shout out to Ami and the volunteers. I got a taste of the kind of work that's put in behind the scenes, and these guys work quite hard to try and have the event go along as smooth as possible. I personally had a blast volunteering on the paid line, and I'm already looking forward to doing it again next year.

Third; was great to meet a bunch of new people, and of course see some old faces as well. There's such a great group of people here; waking up at 2:30am to participate in an event like this is definitely easier when you genuinely look forward to hanging out with these people.

Fourth; there's definitely a ton of lessons learned, and I'm sure the organizational group will take note of it, and try to correct the best they can for next year. This year was so much bigger and better than last year (though still bummed out we couldn't spell anything out) and I'm sure next year will follow a similar trend. Can only get better from now on. Third time's the charm? ;)

[palvares]

Event was great however i felt Mazda Canada could have done a better job!, what was the point of handing out cards to go on the computers to register? would have been nice to have some freebies or promo shirts. overall though it was amazing to drive the parade !! it would have been nice to see the tmz hand out some awards for best car/rims/ act

[Seshan]

Event was great however i felt Mazda Canada could have done a better job!, what was the point of handing out cards to go on the computers to register? would have been nice to have some freebies or promo shirts. overall though it was amazing to drive the parade !! it would have been nice to see the tmz hand out some awards for best car/rims/ act

Register for what? Also I didn't realize we had to buy raffle tickets for the other prizes I really wanted some tints :( :P

[Mitchell3]

Oh yeah I also witnessed that rx7 (red/black) spin out at the first left turn after the main straightaway. Just happy that he didn't spin into another car or worse into one of the volunteers; DUMBASS

lol! I never realized that happened. Although in the back of my mind I figured someone would do something during the lapping..

[robl]

lol! I never realized that happened. Although in the back of my mind I figured someone would do something during the lapping..
I never saw that either and I spent most of the laps beside him...must have been at some point when he wasn't. That was quite the car, right hand drive and all!

Cheers,
Rob.

[Karmaspeed]

Event was great however i felt Mazda Canada could have done a better job!, what was the point of handing out cards to go on the computers to register? would have been nice to have some freebies or promo shirts. overall though it was amazing to drive the parade !! it would have been nice to see the tmz hand out some awards for best car/rims/ act
the card raffle was for the 3 year lease for the car participants; the computer registration was for everyone at the event so 2 cars; also this is a charity event if you want awards for cars then go to a car/tuner/import show as there are plenty of those already.

Register for what? Also I didn't realize we had to buy raffle tickets for the other prizes I really wanted some tints :( :P
I wasn't aware of the paid raffles too at first; but discovered them when they advertised them over the speaker system; if you stayed with the cars then I see why you didn't know.

[Seshan]

the card raffle was for the 3 year lease for the car participants; the computer registration was for everyone at the event so 2 cars; also this is a charity event if you want awards for cars then go to a car/tuner/import show as there are plenty of those already.

I wasn't aware of the paid raffles too at first; but discovered them when they advertised them over the speaker system; if you stayed with the cars then I see why you didn't know.

I did go back to my car for a nice 15min nap ;P Maybe that's when I missed it.

[Hyperion]

We can't do a later event the airport needs to stay open.

[greyseason]

We can't do a later event the airport needs to stay open.

By what time? We were there til 1-130 yesterday with my at still being on the runway at 1230ish. If we had everybody in rows, ready to go, and got people on the runway for 10-11 then escort the cars to a parking area. I quoted you but really only meant to ask what time the airport needs to be open by lol

[peterm15]

The airport itself was shut down.

The airspace above it was not. And that's the concern. Emergency landings can happen.

I believe it may have something to do with air regulations (FAA or equivalent)

[greyseason]

So we could technically move it to a later time? An emergency landing would happen even if we were there, if it HAD to happen

[Aitch]

By what time? We were there til 1-130 yesterday with my at still being on the runway at 1230ish. If we had everybody in rows, ready to go, and got people on the runway for 10-11 then escort the cars to a parking area. I quoted you but really only meant to ask what time the airport needs to be open by lol

I'm not 100% the best person to answer this, but here's more explanation. Last year when we were on the main runway, we only used half the width because after parking the other half is used for the 5K run. The organizers will not allow the cars to be moving around while the run is occurring in the same space.

So part 1 is that after all our driving on the runway yesterday, we had to park off in a different area as we'd take too much space on the main runway for the run to take place there. Consider we had >350 cars this year compared to <200 last year. We could have fit ~300 into that 1/2 width of runway but remember we conceivably could have gotten 800 cars yesterday - we didn't know. So the only alternative to use the main runway for us in an aerial photo would be for the 5K run to happen in a different area.

Part 2 is that by the time we'd done our driving around, there was not enough time to keep moving cars around and organizing an aerial photo, while the 5K run was scheduled to begin. Remember that we were still backed out on the main runway while the cars were parking, and that was just "everyone park" with no regard to spacing for an aerial photo. So truly there was no time to do an aerial photo yesterday, and for any setup >300 cars would likely have required a complete adjustment in how the two events (HFH and the 5K run) were interfaced together.

At a basic level, if you want to do our event later, the 5K run would have to start earlier. Someone has to get going early on. I don't believe that the airport is going to want to remain closed past 2-3pm as they were yesterday, they would essentially be closed the entire day at that point. That is probably the real hard limiting factor.


N.B. not singling you out by quoting you, just trying to explain this as I think a lot of people are asking the same questions.

[trulankan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7TqvWjP2k

im right at the beginning as we are leaving KC

[asyed]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7TqvWjP2k



Im the one in the grey gen 1 with the non functioning left brake light :chuckle

[Kiewan]

I never saw that either and I spent most of the laps beside him...must have been at some point when he wasn't. That was quite the car, right hand drive and all!

Cheers,
Rob.

That guy was about 3 cars up from me in the other lane. He stayed back a bit and hit the gas when he had room, he tried to drift but he just floored it while turning, then over corrected and came within 3-4 feet of a stock hatch 3 cars up. It was a snaking motion altogether, like an s-bend. Happy nothing bad came of it.

[jchc91]

What an experience, that was a great deal of fun! Not only did I get to see a ton of awesome looking Mazdas (props to the hard core guys from Quebec, driving all the way here to the event - you guys are awesome), I got to meet up with familiar faces and catch up on things. The venue at Oshawa Airport may not appeal to some people, but I loved the wide, open space of the airport and the brisk wind that was blowing (I personally found it very calming).

Next year, I can think of a few things to better the experience:

- registration requires payment
- show up at 9:30 ~ 10am
- Oshawa Airport is barely an hour away from Toronto, and that's where the Heart for Hearth event was being held, so I think we don't really need to change the location
- if at all possible, email confirmation from all participants, maybe a dedicated email list to automatically send out reminders as the event draws near


Let's do better next year, guys. $20 is a very small amount to pay, and it goes to a good cause. The experience of showing up and participating in the parade lap (or whatever planned for next year) was already worth more than $20.

I agree with some of these.

A few people after the event were trying to add to the list

For next year's registration: Pay w/ T-Shirt, Donate only, Extra t-shirt, Donate more

A Pay-To-Register should be a MUST in order to get officially registered with the attending list, no ifs, buts, or whats. By imposing a "You-Gotta-Pay" scenario, I think people will be more inclined to come since money is at hand.

Since the airport must be open most of the time, the 6-1 time slot is very reasonable, in my opinion. It will be easier to cruise down as there will virtually be no traffic around the time that people start heading out and it's still an impeccable time to leave as it is still before rush hour / busy hour.

Maybe have pacers to speed up and keep the pace steady and consistent.

All volunteers need walkie talkies :P

I think the event went well but there were lots of lessons learned.

It was a LOT of hard work by Ami and the small amount of ppl who volunteered ahead of time and the volunteers at the event. I wish we could have made the record but I am not shocked at how little ppl showed up. People just suck.

I felt chaotic from the moment I got up at 5 to getting there at 6, running around like mad, and leaving there at 2. Ugh, I went home and laid in bed for an hour just to try to warm up, I was chilled throughout and was insanely tired.

Thanks Ami, You did great. I'm enjoying my new jacket :P

I can vouch that Foxy is a force not to be triumphed with when tired and "want to get out" is the emotion in that moment.

[greyseason]

ahh makes sense. Yeah i dont think the airport wants to be closed for the entire day ( the airstrip sure did clear out fast though eh?)
I have no quams about waking up early, and with every year that we do this, its almost guarenteed to grow bigger. Almost 900 people registered this year. If each of them talks about it before it happens next year, our numbers will grow huge i think

[peterm15]

I can vouch that Foxy is a force not to be triumphed with when tired and "want to get out" is the emotion in that moment.

Just keep your head down, do as she says and no one gets hurt.

And watch where she pointing the mega phone. That thing is loud.

[greyseason]

That guy was about 3 cars up from me in the other lane. He stayed back a bit and hit the gas when he had room, he tried to drift but he just floored it while turning, then over corrected and came within 3-4 feet of a stock hatch 3 cars up. It was a snaking motion altogether, like an s-bend. Happy nothing bad came of it.

what a nozzledouche

[Aitch]

I can vouch that Foxy is a force not to be trifled with when tired and "want to get out" is the emotion in that moment.

*corrected* :)

[Mitchell3]

That guy was about 3 cars up from me in the other lane. He stayed back a bit and hit the gas when he had room, he tried to drift but he just floored it while turning, then over corrected and came within 3-4 feet of a stock hatch 3 cars up. It was a snaking motion altogether, like an s-bend. Happy nothing bad came of it.

Moves like that are probably part of the reason us in the back couldn't maintain a speed nor car distance.

[geobur]

Moves like that are probably part of the reason us in the back couldn't maintain a speed nor car distance.

ya agreed

But I also think part of the problem is if we had have maintained a specific speed in the front, by the time with everyone cruising and getting going, the cars in the front would have caught up to the cars in the back before the cars in the back had a chance to start moving because it wouldn't have rippled down to them yet.

The front kept slowing down which meant everyone behind had to tap their breaks either a little and the moment someone sees break lights they hit theirs so it ripples down again that the line is stopping...

I think there is/was easily enough room to fit 3 wide on the runways (not to mention "3" wide would be very fitting :P) and that would have given us more room between the front of the line to the back...and would even leave room for a car and a half spacing.

only problem with three wide is if you get morons like the one driving the RX7 who could have caused some serious problems.

[Aitch]

ya agreed

But I also think part of the problem is if we had have maintained a specific speed in the front, by the time with everyone cruising and getting going, the cars in the front would have caught up to the cars in the back before the cars in the back had a chance to start moving because it wouldn't have rippled down to them yet.

The front kept slowing down which meant everyone behind had to tap their breaks either a little and the moment someone sees break lights they hit theirs so it ripples down again that the line is stopping...

I think there is/was easily enough room to fit 3 wide on the runways (not to mention "3" wide would be very fitting :P) and that would have given us more room between the front of the line to the back...and would even leave room for a car and a half spacing.

only problem with three wide is if you get morons like the one driving the RX7 who could have caused some serious problems.

I wasn't anywhere close to the front, were the lead cars indeed changing speed constantly?

I assumed that it was the natural accordion effect (which you mentioned) happening further down the line as some people naturally tapped their brakes on the turns.

[mathew.poulos]

I wasn't anywhere close to the front, were the lead cars indeed changing speed constantly?

I assumed that it was the natural accordion effect (which you mentioned) happening further down the line as some people naturally tapped their brakes on the turns.

I could see the front from my spot and Ami and the Lead Car were doing a good slow pace. I think it was just some unconfident drivers. (The lady behind me was rarely at 1 car length and the car in front was speeding up and slamming there brakes.)

[Mitchell3]

I heard over the radio to do 30km/h. But that didn't mean anything where I was. You had to do what people in front of you were doing.

The front did look like they were staying consistent.

[sudz]

First of all, thanks to all that actually came out! Definitely disappointing looking at the list of people registered and seeing how many weren't crossed off :( but what can you do; in the end it's their choice.

Ban them. Ban them all.

(semi joking)

[sudz]

Moves like that are probably part of the reason us in the back couldn't maintain a speed nor car distance.

There was a blue hatch behind me, with star of david (jewish) Boxing gloves hanging in his rear view mirror. actually just stopped, waited for his wife/girlfriend to run out from the Run event area, and then continued on. I was raging. He then stopped again, and then veered off to take her to the bathroom. I never knew a parade was actually another form of bathroom transportation. *facepalm*

[JPJPJP]

Although, I did keep my car 1-2 car lengths behind the 3 in front of me most of the time, I had to slam my brakes a couple of times... :loki2 The 2nd gen silver hatch had a big ass flag on the back of his car, covering his brake/tail lights... Although it did look cool when I first saw him put it on when we were in our "pre-assembly lines". I didn't think of how it would affect me when following him. It made me pissed off for most of the time when we were driving, because I didn't know when he was braking... No offense to the guy that did it.. but maybe think of yours and others safety first, before repping your country?

still had a blast at the event though! Can't wait to see what next year brings!

[jaynsue13]

There was a blue hatch behind me, with star of david (jewish) Boxing gloves hanging in his rear view mirror. actually just stopped, waited for his wife/girlfriend to run out from the Run event area, and then continued on. I was raging. He then stopped again, and then veered off to take her to the bathroom. I never knew a parade was actually another form of bathroom transportation. *facepalm*

Oh please my wife had to go pee.Did you come with your wife.Im sure if you did and she had to pee you would let her out.I found there was way to much crying and complaing.

[mathew.poulos]

Oh please my wife had to go pee.Did you come with your wife.Im sure if you did and she had to pee you would let her out.I found there was way to much crying and complaing.

rules are still rules. 1 car length was supposed to be for everyone, not just those who felt like it.

If we had the number of cars needed, and we missed the record because of people not staying close enough during the parade, would it still be no big deal?

[Nikhil Pali]

It was a great event. I enjoyed it. Thanks to everyone who made it happened and everyone who came out to support h4h.

As everyone is saying, lapping wasn't synchronized, but it was fun. There were couple of sharp turn, specially for the line that was inside the turn which was causing many people to brake-accelerate and was probable the start of ripple effect. But it was still fun and thats what matters. Next year, post a cruise speed of 10 or 15, that way no one need to brake for any turns and anyone and us standard guys won't have to shuffle between gears too many times.

Thanks again for a great sunday.

[peterm15]

and us standard guys won't have to shuffle between gears too many times.


My leg still hurts.

[Thrizzl3]

My leg still hurts.

LOL cmon..it wasn't that bad.

[Mitchell3]

rules are still rules. 1 car length was supposed to be for everyone, not just those who felt like it.

If we had the number of cars needed, and we missed the record because of people not staying close enough during the parade, would it still be no big deal?

I thought about this too, but I don't blame anyone for stopping. Especially with the amount of coffee probably consumed in order to even make it to the event :P. People probably didn't know when we were moving. I don't think I would have known either without the walkie.

[FoXy]

We should have told ppl that it was going to take a while to do the lapping, giving them time to go to the washroom. However, it wasnt THAT long so ppl were just not prepared.

I was watching from where we counted the cars and ppl were terrible drivers. There were some ppl who just couldnt seem to grasp one car length. Some were like 3 or 4, which boggled my mind. It was doomed from the get go cus we live in the GTA and we all knwo what drivers are like here.

IF there is a next year things will be different. Lsat year we didnt have the record tihng, and we didnt have to do the parade thing so this year was a learning experience.

[peterm15]

LOL cmon..it wasn't that bad.

Between the shifting and the constant walking between the tent and the runway. Ya my legs sore.

[Mitchell3]

IMO, the car lengths was stupid all together. I dont understand why that was required for the record. 2+ car lengths isnt a parade? Then what is it? Worlds slowest auto race?

[S.F.W.]

The lapping was a challenge, I was at the front of the pack and had a radio. Instructions were being received from the tower. Instructions changed constantly, first start at 10, everything is fine...then no speed up people need to get onto the runway go 20, then 30, then back to 15-20, etc.
As well, the Red 2014 Pace car didn't have a radio, and we were having trouble communicating, and staying on the same page pace wise. He needed to go a little faster than me, as the outside will be slower around the curve.
I think if we were to do this again, we would need more straight road, with fewer turns. Also more radios in our vehicles.
Another point I will agree with, is once the tower knew we were not getting the record, we should have stopped at two laps, and proceeded to the organized photo. Part of that rests on me, for not telling the airport manager of the backup plan.
Also, need to rework registration somehow. That space, one gate, two lines with 800 cars...we would have been checking in cars at 2pm.

Lots of lessons learned, but please keep the feedback coming. Perhaps someone can start a new thread for ideas for next year. That is if people really want to try this again next year.

[vinceb73]

We will be there next year for sure.

Good job to all

[Fack_Dude]

This event should be done at Mosport GP track next time. :chuckle

[Chaos]

Also, need to rework registration somehow. That space, one gate, two lines with 800 cars...we would have been checking in cars at 2pm.
Agreed! Perhaps doing initial check in as the cars come in from Stevenson rd, as they arrive, then pre-stage in the main parking, where bags could be handed out, then go through the gate to line parking.(50 at a time or something).



Perhaps someone can start a new thread for ideas for next year. That is if people really want to try this again next year.

I think everyone is on board to do it again next year! I'm in!

[jaynsue13]

I thought about this too, but I don't blame anyone for stopping. Especially with the amount of coffee probably consumed in order to even make it to the event :P. People probably didn't know when we were moving. I don't think I would have known either without the walkie.
Thank you someone out there has some compasion.My preganat wife has read your posts and feels real bad so she is sorry if that caused such a big issue but sometimes decision have to be made that may not be good for all.

[The Wolf]

Once you pay you should be able to download your pass. Display on windshield. Also would be a decent idea to stagger arrival times

[hex]

As long as this event stays as a weekend thing, i'm in for sure!

Maybe check off registrations at pre-meets, then hand out tickets to show they they 're confirmed?

[Rob23]

Lol Nice video. It seems almost identical to mine from last year. Even the same song lol



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7TqvWjP2k

[S.F.W.]

Once you pay you should be able to download your pass. Display on windshield. Also would be a decent idea to stagger arrival times
Solid idea, except what about event shirts ? Maybe post parade pickup at a table near the main stage ?
Staggering arrival I also like, but how ? Tell the East guys to arrive for 8, West for 9 ? What about the non members ?

[The Wolf]

We should have told ppl that it was going to take a while to do the lapping, giving them time to go to the washroom. However, it wasnt THAT long so ppl were just not prepared.

I was watching from where we counted the cars and ppl were terrible drivers. There were some ppl who just couldnt seem to grasp one car length. Some were like 3 or 4, which boggled my mind. It was doomed from the get go cus we live in the GTA and we all knwo what drivers are like here.

IF there is a next year things will be different. Lsat year we didnt have the record tihng, and we didnt have to do the parade thing so this year was a learning experience.

No offense but the key word in your statement is watching. You can't just expect traffic to move at a constant. If everyone at their cruise control to 30kmh, the left line would have finished about 20 car lengths ahead of the right line. Also there was no ****ing way I could go 30 past your area...

[The Wolf]

Solid idea, except what about event shirts ? Maybe post parade pickup at a table near the main stage ?
Staggering arrival I also like, but how ? Tell the East guys to arrive for 8, West for 9 ? What about the non members ?
You could include a location field in the form and your arrival time could be based on that, and printed on your pass?

[greyseason]

You could include a location field in the form and your arrival time could be based on that, and printed on your pass?

holy smart idea

[greyseason]

Soo i just made a H4H feedback thread

(http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?72825-Heart-For-Hearth-2014-Ideas-and-Feedback-Thread&p=1125916#post1125916)So post up those ideas!

[Robjohn2010]

Yeah I liked your video and wanted to give it the same feel.

[Robjohn2010]

Lol Nice video. It seems almost identical to mine from last year. Even the same song lol

Yeah I really liked your video so....

[Mr Wilson]

Thanks to Ami for all the hard work, the volunteers that helped out throughout the day (Kat is terrifying.......in a good way, oh and that looker in the yoga pants handing out shirts in the 'unpaid' line, giggity). Cheers to everyone that came out to help raise money for a good cause, Mazda Canada for coming out and a few dealers who came as well (Westowne, Probart, Whitby and a few others - I know where I'll be recommending people to go buy a car + Jeff....of course).

[Wylie]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7TqvWjP2k

Love how my car is pretty much the first thing you seen in this video :)

[asyed]

This event should be done at Mosport GP track next time. :chuckle


but then everyone will want to take each corner like the stig... :chuckle

[sw33tb3rry]

who was driving the CWP gen 2 mazda3 hatch with a gopro on the hood . You were behind a gen 2 celestial blue mazda3 sedan for a while then you left the line and jumped back in somewhere else. Please post that video would love to see it! THANKS


during the parade you exited the line to fix your gopro then got back in right behind me

[Mr Wilson]

^^^ It was one of the guys from Quebec, Speed 3 with the chrome wheels.

[jchc91]

*corrected* :)

I was hoping I used the correct word but apparently I didn't.

Alas, gratitude for your modest correction

[jchc91]

Just keep your head down, do as she says and no one gets hurt.

And watch where she pointing the mega phone. That thing is loud.

:chuckle She had too much fun with that thing, as entertaining as the megaphone really is.

[asyed]

Also


I was the guy with the gray gen 1 with the camcorder attached to a funny looking suction cup mount which was suctioned to the windshield. Im going to edit the video sometime in the coming weeks and then upload it.

[aboss]

Also


I was the guy with the gray gen 1 with the camcorder attached to a funny looking suction cup mount which was suctioned to the windshield. Im going to edit the video sometime in the coming weeks and then upload it.

Hey! I was right next to you! My girlfriend and I got a laugh out of watching you decide where to mount the camera and trying different spots before we left for the parade lap. lol. I was next to you for much of the lap, too. Excited to see the video...

[asyed]

Hey! I was right next to you! My girlfriend and I got a laugh out of watching you decide where to mount the camera and trying different spots before we left for the parade lap. lol. I was next to you for much of the lap, too. Excited to see the video...

Ahahah... ya it was hard

I had to find a spot where I could get a nice shot and but still be able to monitor my camera and make sure it doesnt fall off ( incase the suction failed).... ( expensive camera.... not so expensive suction cup mount [$40] )


It wasnt helpful also that I was doing this only a few minutes before the lap started.


And yes I think you made the video aboss (if you were the blue hatch)... i also managed to catch the speed 3 behind you giving er some more gas than needed sometimes :P

[Rob23]

Yeah I really liked your video so....

Hey Im not bashing. Its like a round two from last year. I forgot my GoPro this year so glad a new version was made.

[Crypto7]

First off, thanks to all the volunteers and organizers who made this event happen. I first heard of this event on Facebook from my dealership in London (Probart Mazda) and then noticed the flashing red bar on the Toronto Mazda 3 forums. I took interest and registered a few weeks before the event date and got a friend of mine to join as well. I share the links on Twitter and Facebook as well.

On the big day... I arrived early 6:20am with convoy with MX-5 and CX-5 from London eastbound. The driver of the CX-5 was my original meet up in London and made our way to the airport in Oshawa. The MX-5 joined around Woodstock eastbound an together we cruised on in. Arrived and told to wait for instructions for set up. Nothing too official was displayed. We followed instructions and waited.

Approximately 20 minutes later got the okay to move up to the staging area before the gates. Did so and waited some more. Noticed someone walking around introducing herself as Heather.... from Mazda Canada? Wasn't sure at first, some other volunteers appeared to have yellow T-Shirts on, okay figuring out the volunteers with what they are wearing.

Instructions then were given out using bull horn. Instructions were somewhat clear, but the options of if you are paid or not, go in the right lane, it seemed odd. I did pre-pay and was on the website as paid. Name was correct and registered so I stayed to the left behind my friend who also was paid up. When reaching the gate, gave my name, provided my drivers' license and was held up as my name was not on the list??? Checked two lists, while now I'm holding up the line. Name is not on the lists. Did you pay/register??? Ummmm yeah, my name is on the website as paid.

Meanwhile my friend is gone through no problem and now separated from me. I was recorded on pen and let in after a bit. I'm still wondering why my name was not on the list or if it was just missed. It's not an uncommon name either and I check online (when I got in parade position in the second row near the front) to the website for registered paid/unpaid participates and my name is clear as day online website. Now I have to turn on FRS radio and contact my friend to see her 10-20. Nowhere near me. I hear people complain about washroom breaks and when the parade will start? No clear answers or itinerary given by volunteers.

I was positioned on the second row about 6 cars from the front. Bull horn sounded and announcement made about getting ready for the parade. Get to vehicles and start up. Did so and Idled for over 8 minutes before shutting things down again and resetting the GoPro. Another announcement was made. Get ready, 20 seconds rolling out... more like another 5 minutes. Just seemed the instructions given to start up and go were delayed quite a bit. Seemed like the interviews at the front of the line kept dragging on. Then eventually we were off and running. Two car lengths, one car length instructions were given out. Well easier said than done. It was varied to some degree and why so many laps? Kudos to the volunteers, but the instructions given were varied and not too clear. The makeshift signs held too looked cheap, makeshift. I did see a few of these signs thrown on the lanes and grass when made the hike to the tents.

I did hear of the commotion on FRS and in person as I was near the front of the line when the running event took over the runway and that we were late for the ZOOM ZOOM picture. That in itself was confusing for many. Many now stranded in the service road, some locked in the middle and now have to walk across the lanes and uneven grass field to get to the main grandstand. People were asking each other about the photo shoot and there was not a clear communication or announcement made about what was going on.

When at the main tent reception area, people were unclear about where to drop off their ballots for the 2014 draw. There were a few other draws taking place (Mazda Canada - 2013 and Lions for various raffle draws) and there was a late announcement about where to drop off the ballots for the 2014 draw. Many people were confused where to go... "Registration tent". Well the white tent where you get the Dr. Pepper... there is registration there. No signage saying registration. Finally located the table and dropped off the ballots.

Another thing I noticed was the setup of the burger stand and washrooms with the porta potties in-between. There was a long line up for both the burgers and washrooms. Line up for the washroom was in-between the burger stand and where you got your condiments after picking up the burger. Lots of cross crossing lines that made people ask which line is for what. Burger or washroom?

Again, this is just a report to help organizers improve for next year. Kudos to those who volunteers and organized this event for such a great cause.

[aboss]

Ahahah... ya it was hard

I had to find a spot where I could get a nice shot and but still be able to monitor my camera and make sure it doesnt fall off ( incase the suction failed).... ( expensive camera.... not so expensive suction cup mount [$40] )


It wasnt helpful also that I was doing this only a few minutes before the lap started.


And yes I think you made the video aboss (if you were the blue hatch)... i also managed to catch the speed 3 behind you giving er some more gas than needed sometimes :P

Ya asyed I was the blue hatch. The dude behind me made me nervous a couple times with that gas pedal... lol. I thought I might get a speed3 in my back seat... but he was ok... I'm sure he was just trying his best to maintain the "one car length" lol.

[geobur]

FoXy was it you who convinced me to buy Girl Guide cookies near the end when I dropped off my raffle ticket for the car?

I must say the "throw in a blender with Vanilla ice cream" selling point was awesome...Thanks for the great idea... :P however now I am pretty sure I am always going to have to keep Girl Guide Cookies and vanilla ice cream in stock at my girlfriends house to keep her happy :P

[FoXy]

lol yes, that was I trying to sell you the cookies. I am also a GG leader in my spare time (my parents guilt trip me into it, but I dont mind it) and we have like 70 cases of chocolate mint GG cookies to sell.

They are delicious :P

Im addicted to mint chocolate ice cream so this is an easy way to get it lol

[geobur]

lol yes, that was I trying to sell you the cookies. I am also a GG leader in my spare time (my parents guilt trip me into it, but I dont mind it) and we have like 70 cases of chocolate mint GG cookies to sell.

They are delicious :P

Im addicted to mint chocolate ice cream so this is an easy way to get it lol

awsome...well now I know where to get GG cookies when my girlfriend runs out... :P or maybe I should just get you set up as her dealer since she lives in Ajax already, she can call you up and ask if you have a fresh shipment of the goods

haha

[FoXy]

And dont you worry... I ALWAYS have the goods ;)

[peterm15]

Foxy just became a pusher. :P

[geobur]

Foxy just became a pusher. :P

oh ya for sure...she practically forced me to buy those cookies :P it was almost emasculating

[peterm15]

oh ya for sure...she practically forced me to buy those cookies :P it was almost emasculating

Pretty sure I was sitting there when you bought them. Ya I can see that as being emasculating.

[greyseason]

Pretty sure I was sitting there when you bought them. Ya I can see that as being emasculating.
hahah poor guy

[geobur]

hahah poor guy

people aren't lying when they say don't mess with Foxy :P now I understand

[S.F.W.]

Ok..back on topic, please. Further discussion of Foxy's girl guide pushing can have it's own thread..

[asyed]

Ok..back on topic, please. Further discussion of Foxy's girl guide pushing can have it's own thread..

Lmao

[4000revs]

On the big day... I arrived early 6:20am with convoy with MX-5 and CX-5 from London eastbound. The driver of the CX-5 was my original meet up in London and made our way to the airport in Oshawa. The MX-5 joined around Woodstock eastbound an together we cruised on in.

I was using my phone as GPS, but it gave out before I hit the 401. So I was relieved when I came across you and your convoy, I was the grey Gen1 following the MX-5. Thanks for your impeccable timing, I might have been very lost if I hadn't come across you!

[silverstarmazda]

so is there a picture/thread/interview about the winner receiving the car yet?? i havnt seen anything about that yet :/ only heard the announcement and the guy not being there

[S.F.W.]

so is there a picture/thread/interview about the winner receiving the car yet?? i havnt seen anything about that yet :/ only heard the announcement and the guy not being there

I know Mazda contacted him yesterday, so stay tuned.

[Mitchell3]

I will happily take it if he does not want it :P

[Mr Wilson]

Another thing I noticed was the setup of the burger stand and washrooms with the porta potties in-between. There was a long line up for both the burgers and washrooms. Line up for the washroom was in-between the burger stand and where you got your condiments after picking up the burger. Lots of cross crossing lines that made people ask which line is for what. Burger or washroom?

The setup for the food drove my wife nuts. Get food, start left go right for patties....then cross through massive line to get condiments while mingling with the toilet folk at the back of the tent, and then cut through/move forward in the condiment tent to get to the massive line for burgers to get a drink.

Granted free food is free.

[Flunk]

That was fun, got to see some nice cars and give some money to charity (which was the point after all).

I think the big issue with the parade was the lack of explanation of the requirements (1 car length, consistent speed, no stopping, ect..) so a lot of drivers didn't know what was going on. There were times that I had to accelerate and then brake right afterwards to stay in line with the car ahead of me. We probably would have had the best chance of doing it at about 10 km/h. I also noticed that some people (seeming) had issues keeping their cars in line on corners and taking turns really wide. It did at least look like most drivers were trying to do whatever it was that we were there to do.

I'd also like to thank everyone for not making fun of my totally stock, automatic, GX. :D

[Tuscani01]

I'd also like to thank everyone for not making fun of my totally stock, automatic, GX. :D

Haha, I second that on my stock GT!

[FoXy]

Agreed, the ppl at the airport dropped the ball on the lay out.


The setup for the food drove my wife nuts. Get food, start left go right for patties....then cross through massive line to get condiments while mingling with the toilet folk at the back of the tent, and then cut through/move forward in the condiment tent to get to the massive line for burgers to get a drink.

Granted free food is free.

[Robjohn2010]

When and where do we start seeing the official photos from the boom truck and chopper?

[asyed]

When and where do we start seeing the official photos from the boom truck and chopper?

THIS ALL MY THIS!

[S.F.W.]

Does anyone have GoPro or other footage from the event ? Production team is asking me, so they can put together a final edit. Please pm me, and I will provide upload instructions.

[vinceb73]

Still waiting for our footage..one guys is supposed to transfer that

[asyed]

Does anyone have GoPro or other footage from the event ? Production team is asking me, so they can put together a final edit. Please pm me, and I will provide upload instructions.


Ideally I want to make my own video but have no problem in uploading the footage of the parade lap ( one lap only before my camcorder to phone function starting acting up) But I will probably upload the other footage as part of the 8 min long video ive put together....



Also im assuming some credit will be given in the video? I dont like giving my footage ( no matter how good or bad) to someone I dont know without making sure they will acknowledge in the video description or something that they didnt film said video clip....

Ive already had one of my videos stolen off youtube and put on streetfire before...

[Jsquared]

Does anyone have GoPro or other footage from the event ? Production team is asking me, so they can put together a final edit. Please pm me, and I will provide upload instructions.

I have gopro footage I can send your way or upload to a site. I think I was rolling for all laps. I had the camera I my passeenger door for a lap and roof for a few laps

I'll pm ya

[trulankan]

i have a couple of small videos from inside my car, not the best but i can upload. im in the process of uploading all my pics lol

[jazzman83]

Does anybody have any footage of the event?

[hex]

Does anybody have any footage of the event?

There's a photo dump in the multimedia section. Search.

[Fobio]

What's the plan this year?

http://jalopnik.com/seventh-heaven-1580564227

http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--mX8iOnyO--/c_fit,fl_progressive,q_80,w_636/oblorznp7vi3rllhve5s.jpg

[FD22]

What's the plan this year?

+1

Been waiting on details for this year! Very excited. I know it's stressful as hell in terms of planning and whatnot, but this must keep happening!

EDIT: should've mentioned, I'm of course down to help out again this year. Was a blast helping out last year

[greyseason]

Agreed!!
As always Ami, im down to help volunteer/get things ready

[jchc91]

Down to help again

[S.F.W.]

Still up in the air about plans for 2014. Was really hoping to do another record attempt for the parade, but after meeting with City of Oshawa and Region of Durham, it's simply not feasible.
If people are interested in doing it again, we can, date would be Saturday Sep. 20th.

Spelling only event - like it was in 2012.

I need to see enthusiasm, ideas, and a lot of help.
Need help tweaking the registration site
check in process - there were ideas to change this...
designing print and electronic marketing items..

Someone find the discussion of suggestions, let's start a new thread, and tag people.

[peterm15]

I have lots of time on my hands to help. Anything you want at any time (with notice) I'm good.

[loki]

ok this thread is locked

someone will have to start a new thread to get the ideas going