Bracket Racing is a math problem with two variables. You add your reaction time to the difference in your dial and actual run et.
Here is an example:
Left Lane Dials 11.80
Reaction time: .050
ET: 11.823
Total package= .050+.023=.073
Right lane dials 13.20
Reaction time .070
ET: 13.210
Total package= .070+.010=.080
In this case, left lane wins with the lowest total. Should the left lane run faster than his dial, meaning 11.79, he would automatically lose, unless the right lane broke out by more.
The reason the faster car has the advantage is simple. If I'm running 11.80 and you're dial 13.20, you have to take off first. Meaning if you redlight first, I automatically win before taking off. If I'm the faster car, I would likey dial 11.82, knowing I can run 11.80. Should we have similar reaction times I should be able to pass you and edge you out at the finish line, taking the win light. Now, knowing I can break out, if I'm running you down and can't catch you, I'm going to hit the brakes at the first cone and dump you. You'll likely be breaking out or I was VERY late at the starting line. Having these options makes it a lot easier on the faster car.
In bracket racing, having the ability to drive the finish line is everything. You combine a good finish line driver with a fast car and you have someone that will win a lot of races. It takes a long time to develop driving the finish line. I've just learned in the past 4 months how to really drive the finish line in one of my bracket cars. I now know on that car how to take .01 at the finish line, which allows you to take the win light with the least likely chance of breaking out. It's a lot easier to do that as the faster car.
Hope this helps. If you have any questions you can email me and I'll do a better job explaining.
