SupaTunaGT

Gran Turismo => General Gran Turismo => Topic started by: EX_stream_tuna on July 22, 2014, 12:10:28 PM

Title: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: EX_stream_tuna on July 22, 2014, 12:10:28 PM
I thought we should have a little thread in here acknowledging that one of our Tuna members and a GT Saturdays organizer is now a GT Academy NA winner and Silverstone finalist!!

Great job, man!  We're really proud of you.  I knew you had academy potential, and if given the right set of circumstances, could go really far.  I remember when I first started racing and posting here on this forum -- that I mentioned you were an "alien-human hybrid" to which you responded modestly that you were not even close to being an alien.  Well, now you've shed your human shell and shown who/what you really are :P

Your racing knowledge is probably better than most of the other competitors, besides being a very competent time trialist.  Here is where your overall strength as a driver will start to show and you'll have a chance to turn your dream into a reality.

I remember you said you have a new baby on the way.  Hopefully the two do not interfere with one another and you are able to balance family with a profession in racing!  Just make sure you honor and respect (as I'm sure you do) all of the people close to you who will make sacrifices along the way to help and allow you to pursue it.

Oh, and don't forget where you honed your skills, :D :D  If it weren't for all of the confidence boosting we helped you with by being so slow ourselves, you might have thought you didn't have a chance in hell!  just kidding...

Go represent the Tunas and GT Saturdays!!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: DaletonaDave on July 22, 2014, 03:07:45 PM
+1 ex. :)

Very nice post. You're right about not forgetting who helped him get there. We (read: I) were kinda like slightly improved AI in an online room, for Mr. guns to try to maneuver around while lapping us. :D

GO TGUNS GO!! We're all rootin' for ya!  ;D
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: BakedTuna on July 22, 2014, 03:28:46 PM
 :stoopid:

May you go far with this opportunity. May you also be relaxed enough to take it all in and enjoy and appreciate it. Kick some ass man.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: TunasalED on July 22, 2014, 05:34:00 PM
 Go get 'em tguns! So incredible to think that a video game has had such an impact on the lives of so many - in the face of every person that derides GT as "just a video game"! :P
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: xlr8life on July 22, 2014, 06:56:21 PM
So is it safe to say tguns has now made the "must start 1 lap down" list when he races with us again?  (http://i.imgur.com/LmjyBgx.gif) *of course I'm kidding......or am I? :lolz

Congrats buddy and hope you kick some azz! *Just like you kick ours!*
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: dmcallis on July 23, 2014, 09:30:59 AM
Definitely.  Good luck TGuns!.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Brindle on July 23, 2014, 10:22:26 AM
Good luck mister Guns!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: MasterGT on July 23, 2014, 02:18:57 PM
Each year's roster is always filled with amazing talent, and this year is no different. What is different this years is just many are close to us, one way or another. I'm not sure we have had an Academy quite like this one. Maybe the first one?

tguns16 is going to have to work hard, though. One of the British winners this year is ghost.  ^-^
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Boston77Bruins on July 23, 2014, 02:48:27 PM
Good luck to you sir.

I have to agree with Baked.  I hope that you can savor each moment while still kicking ass in merry old England.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: EX_stream_tuna on July 24, 2014, 08:14:27 AM
One of the British winners this year is ghost.  ^-^

GTP_GhostDriver... ahh... yea I figured he would eventually get far too.  He has been on the top of many time trials and I've raced with him once or twice.  he definitely is one of the top contenders.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Wolfpack987 on July 28, 2014, 10:39:17 AM
Good luck tguns!!!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on August 11, 2014, 08:18:41 AM
Thanks to all of you guys for the support!!! Ex pointed me in the right direction so I would see this. Thanks for that. It's awesome to see the support from all my friends and family. And as the days go by, the number of people rooting for me grows more and more.

Ex, you're right! We have a little girl due on Sep 29th! It's been a wild month trying to personally prepare for the academy, but I've also been working on the house to get everything ready for the new baby. The wife and I have had lots of talks about what could happen in the next couple weeks. Thanks to an amazing family, If I do win, My wife and kids will be taken care of just fine and I'll be able to focus on a career in racing. I don't know if you remember but before I made it to NY, I said I would probably decline the offer because of the things going on here at home. My wife has been behind me for all of this so I'm happy to say...I"M GOING TO ENGLAND BOYS!!!

THANKS AGAIN TO ALL OF YOU!!!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: EX_stream_tuna on August 11, 2014, 08:55:06 AM
you're welcome!

The things you're doing to prepare and the fact that you've got solid people behind you helping out will really make the difference.

I doubt all of the competitors have the family support and all-around good situation, so hopefully that does give you the edge you need.

Those track days you mentioned getting involved with recently are probably the best things you could have done.  You won't have as much nervousness as some others will, and all that physical training will definitely not disappoint.  (remembering GT Academy videos where fat guys are out of breath in a few seconds of activity.)

Even if you don't end up winning all of the individual disciplines at Silverstone, the serious attitude and level-head will help convince judges, I suspect ;)
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: MasterGT on August 15, 2014, 02:42:48 PM
I can't think of a nicer person to see this happen to. I am very proud of you, no matter whether you get the new career or not. I am impressed with your enthusiasm, effort and support, either way.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on August 15, 2014, 06:17:21 PM
Thanks again to all of you guys for the support! I'm sitting at the airport waiting to depart. I wish I could say I'll tell you all about the trip, but we know that's not gonna happen lol. At least not until the show is over. Thanks for all the kind words and motivation from all of you. I will give it my best and I will have a smile on my face the whole time!!

Ok, now back to waiting on a plane lol!!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on August 30, 2014, 08:02:20 PM
Hey dudes!! The trip was amazing, the cars were incredible, The challenges were exciting! Everything about the whole experience was way more than I expected. I can't wait for all of you to see this years season on TV. It's gonna be pretty cool seeing me on TV and I'm sure you all will be very pleased with the results. Thanks for all the support!!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on August 30, 2014, 08:15:37 PM
Oh and by the way, my daughter was born yesterday! Very happy that I was able to make it home in time to be a part of her life from the start!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: BakedTuna on August 30, 2014, 08:18:06 PM
Looks like no matter what the future brings it will be good things. Happy to hear the good news T.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: TheHotstepper on August 30, 2014, 09:03:37 PM
Wow... what a couple of weeks you've had! Congrats on all levels.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: EX_stream_tuna on August 30, 2014, 11:10:17 PM
Oh and by the way, my daughter was born yesterday! Very happy that I was able to make it home in time to be a part of her life from the start!

awesome!  congratulations and I'm glad the timing worked out well for you all
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: ChromeTuna on August 31, 2014, 10:27:47 AM
Great news, congrats all around!  :)
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Brindle on August 31, 2014, 10:41:09 AM
Congrats on all fronts Tguns!!!!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Wiz on August 31, 2014, 06:50:02 PM
 :stoopid: :stoopid: :stoopid: :stoopid: :stoopid:

Awesome news all around tguns.  Congrats!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Boston77Bruins on August 31, 2014, 08:20:25 PM
Congrats to you and your wife on the addition of your daughter.  Sleep will be a faint memory.

Also, I look forward to seeing you on TV this season. 

Congrats to you sir!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on September 01, 2014, 05:58:48 PM
Thanks guys!! It's been a pretty awesome few days. Just like my son, my daughter sleeps like an angel. It's amazing and completely against what babies are supposed to do, but I'm not complaining.

The TV show begins on Nov 7th at 11:30est and continues for 6 episodes. (Skipping the week of thanksgiving) I'm so excited to see it all.

Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: DudeTuna on September 01, 2014, 08:22:39 PM
Too cool, I'll be sure to set my DVR.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: BakedTuna on September 01, 2014, 09:55:51 PM
Sounds like life has got a lot in store for you Tommy no matter what Nissan ends up deciding. Good luck in all your future endeavors.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: LooneyTuna on September 02, 2014, 09:02:51 AM
Congratulations Tguns. I see you posted a picture of her.

(http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t171/bearonebay/TopGear/Stig-2010-Baby.jpg)
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on October 01, 2014, 09:17:37 PM
Hey guys. So with all this GT Academy stuff still fresh in my mind, I just wanted to let you all know about a series of Events I will be hosting. I'll just give you a link to the FaceBook post so you can all see for yourself, and you can all stay informed with the latest news. Swim Hard!

OH and...See ya on the track...thanks to the 1.13 update!!

https://www.facebook.com/events/626157787501686/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/626157787501686/)
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: BakedTuna on October 01, 2014, 10:08:43 PM
I know it's already done and we are just waiting to view the results but I am still pulling for ya, seems kinda odd to be rooting for something that has been done for a while.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on October 02, 2014, 08:08:35 PM
Ah, I'm not gonna spoil the show for anyone but I had the most fun I could've had and I am extremely happy with how everything turned out. Only one more month till the show starts! Can't wait.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on November 07, 2014, 06:49:07 PM
Ok guys, tonight is the Premier of GT Academy! Be sure to tune in to spike at 11:30est and record the show so you can go over all the details! Hope you all enjoy the show, should be amazing.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Boston77Bruins on November 07, 2014, 07:24:52 PM
I have it scheduled to record in case I miss it.  I look forward to seeing how you fella did.

I bet you are excited.  Are you having a viewing party?? 

Cheers mate.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: DudeTuna on November 07, 2014, 07:27:25 PM
I have it scheduled to record in case I miss it.  I look forward to seeing how you fella did.

I bet you are excited.  Are you having a viewing party?? 

Cheers mate.

There is a party, but I think we are too far away.

Hey guys. So with all this GT Academy stuff still fresh in my mind, I just wanted to let you all know about a series of Events I will be hosting. I'll just give you a link to the FaceBook post so you can all see for yourself, and you can all stay informed with the latest news. Swim Hard!

OH and...See ya on the track...thanks to the 1.13 update!!

https://www.facebook.com/events/626157787501686/ (https://www.facebook.com/events/626157787501686/)
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Wiz on November 08, 2014, 01:28:52 AM
Good start Tommy!

(http://i.imgur.com/qNygqY3.gif)
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on November 08, 2014, 02:08:31 AM
Thanks for the continued support guys! It was a great night. We raised over $400 towards the Armed Forces Foundation on the first night! That's a great start. Hope you all enjoyed the show as much as I did!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on November 09, 2014, 04:41:40 PM
So here's a short update on how things went for the first three days of GT Academy (North America):


Day ONE: Jump off the plane in England and one of the judges, Rob Barff, picks me up. Apparently the whole crew was hungover from the party from the night before lol. I hopped around to a few different terminals and met up with a couple of the other guys. Then jumped in a van with my man Gonçalo Gomes who dropped us off at another terminal. Once again switching cars and hitching a ride with "The Transporter" Louise Osborne. She took a group of us to Silverstone (Don't forget your seatbelt for that one hahaha). Oh, and if you have to pee like Edgar Lau, forget about it, she's not stopping...it's only 5 more minutes hahaha.

Louise dumped us off at the Snooze Box which is where we would crash for the night. A few of us went out for a walk and checked out all the racing that was going on around us. We ate a nice dinner then called it an early night...(i couldn't sleep, too excited!)


Day TWO: Grabbed a quick breakfast at the snooze box then went for a run. We met with the production crew and did some TV related stuff with the Nismo Jukes. We were then broken up into three groups of four and went through medical checks, did some fitness tests and ran about 3.5 miles around the perimeter of the Silverstone Circuit. Ran timed hill sprints and did pushups. This day was just a baseline test for the judges to see out fitness level. It was one hell of a workout.


Day THREE: AND IT BEGINS!!
We ran the 370z around the Stowe circuit for the benchmark challenge, then we analyzed the data and took our second runs. We drove the Open wheel cars for 12 laps around Stowe and discussed the details of the Quadrathalon Challenge. Then we drove Nissan GT-R's around the Silverstone International Circuit for 3 laps. HOLY *bleep* THAT CAR IS AWESOME!!!!

Then it was time to run the Quadrathalon! I pulled the open wheel car as hard as I could. Thanks to my trainer Philippe DeRosier I was able to get a great start pulling that car and came out of the harness first. We had to run for about a mile and Nic Hammann flew by me like I was standing still...(check that boy for performance enhancers lol kidding). He was quickly out of sight and soon enough I was passed by another rival, Mark Pinnell. I was third to the Open wheelers and was able to hold that spot for the 3 laps around the wet and slippery course. I was hoping I could gain some ground once I got on the bike but Mark was pacing me pretty well, looking back and picking it up any time I gained on him. Nic was long gone! I was right on Mark's tail getting into the GT-R's but couldn't make up any ground on the wet track and I might have said a few *bleeps* in the car. It was so much fan taking part in that challenge and I'm really happy with where I finished that day.

Next week is a whole new story. Please feel free to ask any questions about what happened so far! Thanks everyone for reading!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: PeyePete on November 09, 2014, 06:00:42 PM
Well done TG.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on November 09, 2014, 06:16:54 PM
Thanks Pete, long time no see buddy. Hope all is well with Ya.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: BakedTuna on November 09, 2014, 06:39:56 PM
No cable need to figure out a different way to see.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: ChromeTuna on November 09, 2014, 08:01:47 PM
No cable need to figure out a different way to see.

http://www.spike.com/shows/nissan-gt-academy (http://www.spike.com/shows/nissan-gt-academy)

 ;)

Good job so far Tommy. Looking forward to seeing how it unfolds.
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: BakedTuna on November 09, 2014, 09:44:48 PM
No cable need to figure out a different way to see.

http://www.spike.com/shows/nissan-gt-academy (http://www.spike.com/shows/nissan-gt-academy)

 ;)

Good job so far Tommy. Looking forward to seeing how it unfolds.

TY Chrome
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: EX_stream_tuna on November 10, 2014, 12:15:16 PM
No cable need to figure out a different way to see.

http://www.spike.com/shows/nissan-gt-academy (http://www.spike.com/shows/nissan-gt-academy)

 ;)

Good job so far Tommy. Looking forward to seeing how it unfolds.

TY Chrome

 :stoopid:
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: Wiz on November 15, 2014, 09:17:21 AM
Looked like you tied for most cars passed in the passing challenge and then proceeded to get immunity... nice jorb!
Title: Re: Go Tguns, Go!!!
Post by: tguns16 on November 16, 2014, 03:41:11 PM
Thanks Wiz. This episode was fun to watch since I did pretty well that day. I put a writing up on PSN forums. I'll copy and paste it here for you guys. Thanks for the support.