Spring Miata's at the Gap

Monday May 12th - Sunday May 18, 2008

Hosted by: Bill & Rancie Titley

Do these rules describe you? I will obey the rules of the road. I will not drive like I’m delivering a donated organ. I will not purposely scare cows. I will not make light of gravity. I will recognize speed limits as strict law and not just ballpark suggestions. If these five rules are you, then the annual spring trip to “The Dragon” will be no fun at all! For the rest of you, read on.
 It’s time for the annual Spring Miatas At The Gap May 12-18, 2008.
 The trip is all about getting to run “The Dragon” at Deal’s Gap, one of the most addictive driving roads in the country. It is known on road maps as US Highway 129. It’s the stuff of sports cars’ dreams--318 curves on an 11 mile stretch of road with no houses, businesses, side roads or driveways.
 “The Dragon” straddles the rural state line between North Carolina and Tennessee starting and/or finishing at Deal’s Gap, NC. It is known as US Highway 129 on road maps. You can hit close to 100 mph if you know the road and hang the tail out a little (or a lot.)
 It has been used for numerous commercials and at least two movies: Thunder Road and Two-Lane Blacktop. Only geezers would remember either one of these flicks. It’s just you, your Miata and a passenger along with huge elevation changes, and 318 curves. What more could any Miata gearhead ask for? (The passenger is optional. Some have been noted to practice Lamaze breathing methods during the ride.)
 Headquarters will again be at the comfortable Valley View Lodge in Townsend, Tennessee. Get your reservations in early (you can always cancel if necessary). The lodge number is: 800/292-4844 or e-mail: valleyviewtn@aol.com. Be sure to say that you are with the Miata group in Building 6 (we get group rates). For questions and additional info call Bill at 386/478-1233 (1-8-08 thru 4-17-08) or at 740/269-1723 any other time.
 Rancie and I will be arriving with the zoomstr around noon Monday, May 12 to start driving, sightseeing.
Remember, there are no set arrival or departure times, so join us at your convenience. This brings together the Ohio Northcoast and the Florida Space Coast Miata Clubs (and usually one or more other clubs) for an exciting driving adventure and Miata fellowship in the Great Smoky Mountains. Last year, we had 16 Miatas in the gathering. Hope you can join us. See you at the Gap!