Pete,
Your story matches up to what I guessed had happened. I didn't see any fast cars coming out of 15 so I did run that line way out to the left going into 16 which I'm sure to you looked like I was opening the door for you to pass ( I would have thought the same thing). Then just as I turned in, I saw a yellow car in my rear view mirror, but I suppose it was wishful thinking that I was clear of you. It looks like (and felt like) contact was made to my inside rear tire which I'm sure trurned me right into you. Usually I have a crew guy walk the grid behind me and look for guys that might be coming through in the first lap, but I didn't have anyone with me this weekend. I see my two mistakes, and hopefully will learn from them. This is the first contact (other than bumper to bumper), I've had in 12 years driving the slowest class in the group so I hope I'm good for at least another 12 years. If we need to talk more, let's do it on the phone (my # is 813 334 3603).
I didn't see your car to see how much damage you had, but I'm glad you were able to continue.
Great job to all the drivers that avoided me sitting sidways in the middle of the track. I feel furtunate to come out of that with two flats and bent fender.
take care,
Bill