The rule book says that it is the responsibility of the overtaking car to make a safe pass.  That is part of the story but it takes two cars to make that happen seamlessly.  This is a complicated subject but is all about risk vs. reward….  The risk is car contact and not finishing the race and the reward is well…..  I am not sure a $10 trophy counts but we all work very hard for the finishing positions we earn.  When it comes to sportsmanship, I believe there are a few guidelines. 

-      When a single overtaking car is not in the middle of a battle a little courtesy should be given to a group of cars that are being overtaken.  This is especially true when the group of cars are in the SAME class but that can be often difficult to determine in the heat of battle.  Remember that things are coming at the driver of the overtaking car a lot faster.   
-      When a single lapped car is not in the middle of a battle a little courtesy should be given to a group of car that are overtaking.   This is especially true when the group of cars are in the SAME class but that too can be difficult to determine in the heat of battle.  The lapped car should give a little bit of extra room so as to not spoil the overtaking cars chance at a good race.   

From the video I can’t say that I have an opinion as it was too difficult to determine how well presented the car was for the pass.  If he had a fender or even a bumper in your peripheral vision then maybe you should have given him the racing room.  On the bright side because of being aware and heads up driving from both parties, you didn’t need to have a long conversation with the steward of the meet about contact. 

Dave

Thanks for responding Todd.  I'm very glad to hear your explanation.  It is sometimes very difficult to tell where the line is between being a good racer and getting a bad reputation.  I'm trying hard to be a good racer. 
Also when a hand comes out of the window at 100 mph it's a little hard to tell how many fingers are extended.  I'm glad it was more that one. 

Dave I also appreciate your great insights on passing or being passed by groups.  Very helpful.

Cheers!  Rod.

 

Hi Rod   You are very welcome i am glad you posted as it would have been awful having you think i gave you the salute .You Did a great job and  did every thing right ! I love racing and would feel terrible if i was the cause of an accident ,  we all want to win but not at the risk and safety of others . I am still learning and also want to be known as a safe and courteous racer , so if i ever do something on the track that may be questionable  i hope some one will come and see me at pit 111  and  let me know so i can learn from my mistakes and become a better race driver   . I had a great weekend  and a special thx goes out to the two fellows in the bmw 's for their great bit of driving to avoid hitting me as i got  very loose in the rain at turn 3 on saturday  thx again  ! Todd # 124