New Jersey students get an up-close lesson

Reading, Writing, & Racing
By: Thomas Chemris

Tinton Falls, NJ - The worlds of public education and racing met head on, as students from New Egypt High School moved there classroom to the IROC race shops to study practical applications of scientific concepts,

Tolerance, heat transference, aero dynamics, g-load, weight distribution and traction were all classroom lessons that the students were able to see applied in the construction of high performance race cars.

Adam Angelozzi, who Teachers high school physics, was thrilled with the opportunity.

"Anytime the kids can see how science is used outside the classroom is important," said Angelozzi. "When they can make that observation with a sport, or anything they have a connection with it becomes invaluable."

IROC shop manager, Jim Meister took students through the facility reviewing innovations in fire resistant materials, space age ceramic coatings used in engine construction, and the newest in safety innovations including seat construction, and the use of head and neck restraints.

The field trip served as an opportunity to gather information that the students will continue to study in the classroom. Data from on board telemetry systems was obtained that will help students further understand the mechanics of the race machine during on track conditions.

Jay Signore, president of IROC is supportive of education, and was enthusiastic to have the students visit. Prior to his work in motorsports, Signore taught auto mechanics at a New Jersey Vocational School.

IROC, or The International Race of Champions is motorsports all-star series. Each year the series invites drivers from various racing leagues to compete in identical cars for a four-race championship. Past Champions include Dale Earnhardt, Kevin Harvick, and Kurt Busch. Over the past twenty-six years a who's who of motorsports have graced the IROC garage, including a group of students from New Egypt High School.