2009 IRI - Event Update

[Stu Bloom]

Originally Posted by Andy Baker

I suppose that now is as good as ever to announce this update to IRI.

Stu Bloom will be the IRI head ref. This change is planned for not only 2009, but future years also.

After 9 years of serving as IRI head ref, I am stepping back. There are a few reasons:

- I get distracted with various things during IRI and would like to help out in other areas (entertainment, expo events, fundraisers, etc.).

- I will still be serving as Chris Fultz's right hand man (Chris = big cheese, me = medium cheese). This medium cheese is a big job.

- Stu started as an IRI ref in 2002 and has steadily improved his skill and reputation as an awesome ref. He has been a division head ref during the last 2 years at the Championships... IRI is in good hands with Stu.

Probably the saddest thing to me about this is that I won't be yelled at by good friends of mine. I recall having a rousing argument with Ricky Q in 2005, while still maintaining our friendship. Even last year, there were a few calls (or no calls) that riled up a few friends... that is the kind of stuff I will miss. I truly enjoy those dynamic engagements. I never tried to make them happen, but seeing people who are passionate about this event and the competition is a good thing.

It boils down to this: Stu is an awesome ref. I am needed elsewhere at the event. I am very happy to be able to hand this off to Stu.

Sincerely,
Andy Baker

I must say ... I was very surprised when Chris and Andy asked me to take over this responsibility. I mean ... C'MON ... this is Andy's gig! I never thought I would see him step down. And you are right - them are some mighty big shoes to fill.

Well I am honored, and glad to accept the position. I'll do my best to ensure that the historically high level of officiating is maintained at IRI.

BTW, I also very much appreciate the passionate people involved in this fantastic program. And I'll be glad to pass on any yelling and/or gestures to Andy.

[wendymom]

Probably the saddest thing to me about this is that I won't be yelled at by good friends of mine. Andy Baker



We can still yell at you if it will make you feel better.

[Pat McCarthy]

I'll offer my driving services, but I think 67 has capable mentors already.

[GaryVoshol]

So for these mentor matches - who you gonna get to ref? Must be students, right? And only one non-student over-21 gets to go to the box to yell and argue (erm, question and discuss).

Stu, I think you'll be great reffing the main show. After all, you have the color-coordinated hard hat.

[Koko Ed]

Originally Posted by EricH

Nothing about experience... Just remember, I think you're eligible too, Alex.

Trust me. You don't want him touching the robot.

[Jetweb]

Darn, when your 18 the number 21 is always ruining your fun

o well, its more fun to watch notable people drive anyways

[Ricky Q.]

Originally Posted by Andy Baker

I suppose that now is as good as ever to announce this update to IRI...

Probably the saddest thing to me about this is that I won't be yelled at by good friends of mine. I recall having a rousing argument with Ricky Q in 2005, while still maintaining our friendship. Even last year, there were a few calls (or no calls) that riled up a few friends... that is the kind of stuff I will miss. I truly enjoy those dynamic engagements. I never tried to make them happen, but seeing people who are passionate about this event and the competition is a good thing.

It boils down to this: Stu is an awesome ref. I am needed elsewhere at the event. I am very happy to be able to hand this off to Stu.

Sincerely,
Andy Baker

This is a sad announcement, in my abscence from IRI the last two summers this is the thing I have missed the most.

I hope to return this year and perhaps get the opportunity to yell at a new head ref.

In all seriousness, having seen Stu ref at several events, I know he will do a great job at IRI.

Baker: I still have that signed yellow card from 2005, great memories.

[Taylor]

Originally Posted by JaneYoung

I think the mentors match should include cute older-than-average blondes
... just sayin'

Daww, Jane, you're makin me blush. But I wouldn't classify myself as "older-than-average" quite yet.

Originally Posted by IndySam

Can we say that IRI is copying the CAGE match by having Stu as head ref?

I think that's EXACTLY what he's saying. My only concern is that Stu will be too expensive come October....

[ShotgunNinja]

I have a question: Where would I go to get information on applying for my team to get into the IRI? Our main mentor wants to have some more information, and I can't find many specifics on the IRI site. (Although I haven't checked out the other IRI thread yet...)

[Ice Berg]

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/2251?

That has all the information about IRI.

[its da PAT!!!]

Originally Posted by IndySam

. I will never forget when you thought Patrick was giving you an obscene jester.

Ha I don't remember this at all