Author: Derek Stratton

Derek Stratton
9 Sep, 2025

Rick Davies, Supertramp Co‑Founder, Dead at 81 After Cancer Battle

Rick Davies, co-founder of Supertramp, has died at 81 at his home in East Hampton after a long fight with multiple myeloma. A pianist, singer, and bandleader, he helped shape hits like Goodbye Stranger and The Logical Song, and led Supertramp through their chart-topping era with Breakfast in America. He is survived by his wife, Sue, his partner in life and the band's longtime manager.

Derek Stratton
31 Jul, 2023

Which is the best university in UK for Automotive engineering?

Revving your engines up for a career in automotive engineering, huh? Well, buckle up, because the University of Bath is where you should set your GPS! It's the Lewis Hamilton of UK universities for Automotive Engineering, consistently grabbing pole position in university rankings. With a pit crew of world-renowned faculty and cutting-edge facilities, you'll be lapping the competition in no time. So, if you've got the drive and the ambition, the University of Bath is your fast lane to success!

Derek Stratton
27 Jul, 2023

How to build your own racing simulator?

Ready to bring the thrill of the racetrack into your living room? Building a racing simulator isn't as hard as fitting into a Formula One car! You'll need a gaming PC, a steering wheel with a pedal set, and a comfortable racing seat. Other gear like a VR headset and a gear shift add to the realism. So buckle up, and let's speed into this DIY project, leaving slow internet and reality in the dust!

Derek Stratton
23 Jul, 2023

Why is car racing called 'Formula 1' and some other 'formulas'?

In my recent deep dive into the world of car racing, I discovered why it's called 'Formula 1' and how other 'formulas' fit into the mix. The 'formula' refers to the specific set of rules each car must follow, with '1' indicating it's the highest level of international racing. Other formulas, like Formula 2 and 3, also exist, each with their own set of regulations but are considered lower tiers. The numbering essentially represents the hierarchy in the racing world. So, when we talk about Formula 1, we're referring to the pinnacle of international car racing, bound by a unique set of rules.

Derek Stratton
20 Jul, 2023

What is the purpose of homologation rules in motorsport?

In a nutshell, homologation rules in motorsport act as a fairness guarantee. They stipulate that any car used in racing must be a production model that's available for purchase by the general public, ensuring that all competitors are on a level playing field. It's a way to prevent teams with bigger budgets from gaining an unfair advantage by creating bespoke racing machines. Moreover, these regulations also boost the car industry, as innovations for the race track often trickle down to the cars we drive every day. So, homologation rules are vitally important for both competitive integrity and automotive progress.

Derek Stratton
11 Jul, 2023

How much do race car drivers make?

In the exhilarating world of race car driving, earnings can vary greatly. On the low end, rookie drivers might only make around $50,000 annually, but at the other end of the spectrum, top professionals can pull in millions. Much of a driver's income also comes from sponsorships and endorsements, which can multiply their earnings significantly. The highest earners, like Formula 1 stars, can earn up to $40 million per year, not including their lucrative endorsement deals. So, while there's a broad range, it's clear that successful race car driving can be an incredibly profitable career.

Derek Stratton
5 May, 2023

What does racing line mean in Motorsports?

As a motorsports enthusiast, I've often heard the term "racing line" thrown around. It refers to the optimal path a driver should take through a corner to achieve the fastest time while preserving their tires and car. Essentially, it's all about finding the right balance between speed and smoothness while navigating turns. The racing line generally consists of entering the corner wide, hitting the apex, and exiting wide to maintain traction and speed. In short, mastering the racing line is crucial for drivers looking to shave seconds off their lap times and improve their overall performance.

Derek Stratton
17 Feb, 2023

How does a gear shifter work in motorcycle drag racing?

Motorcycle drag racing requires the use of a gear shifter to shift gears in order to maximize the speed of the bike. The gear shifter works by activating the clutch, which disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing the bike to shift gears. The rider then uses the gear shifter to select the next gear, which is then engaged by releasing the clutch. In order to make the most efficient shifts, riders must know how to time the shifts correctly and use the correct amount of throttle to match the engine speed to the transmission. This allows the bike to accelerate quickly and make the most of the available power.

Derek Stratton
16 Feb, 2023

How to start a racing career I don't have money?

Starting a racing career can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many ways to break into the racing industry without a lot of money. Begin by finding a racing school, which will help you to learn the basics of racing and give you the opportunity to gain experience. Additionally, you can take on odd jobs at the track or look for sponsorship opportunities to help fund your career. You can also look for used race cars or parts to lower costs. Finally, you can use social media to promote yourself and your racing career to attract potential sponsors. With the right attitude and hard work, starting a racing career without money is possible.