Couldn't you just run in GTL? That is what Mike Dusold runs in with his Camaro.
Regarding tips, I don't know...I know I like to get there early enough on Friday to get my stickers and get all of that done so I can get into tech early Sat morning to get that out of the way. Be ready to run your car...a LOT... They'll split the groups up even numbered cars and odd numbers, evens start on the autox Sat morn while odds run the speed stop, after the lunch break they'll switch. Those sessions are 2 hours 15 minutes long I believe...plenty of time to get a LOT of runs in. Don't wear your stuff out early, while I like the speed stop, no sense killing your car and tires there if that is your first event of the weekend. You are well versed at track events so you know the stuff about keeping hydrated, keeping cool, and keeping safe, all of that applies here as well. Mostly, just have fun hanging with your car friends...you'll make many new ones at this event, they are all good people.
Regarding the wreck...it was a bad deal. Not much has been said publicly about it yet and I don't really want to be the first one sharing the details. I know this, I came around a corner and saw dust...then 10' tall flames...and a friend of mine climbing out and running from his burning car. It was a very sobering moment for me and I'm sure many others there.
Here's what I saw...
I'm sure more will come out about it eventually once the dust settles so to speak.