Brian, looking back over the thread, I can't see anyone gloating over the carnage. Nobody likes to see good components reduced to dust, or a track temporarily out of action as a result. The thread on VZi almost glorifies the failure, which I found odd ("Wow it still ran a 14.90 on two cylinders" etc) and I guess some people couldn't understand why the car continued the whole quarter under power while self-destructing. As you say, shit happens that's racing and as a (former) racer, I know how such carnage hurts, both wallet and ego. But you have no need to go on the defensive in a first posting on what is quite probably the most laid-back forum on the scene.
Regarding the blow-up, I will say this, like most things you do (and have done), when you did it, you did it in style!
Who needs a Haynes manual to see where the engine parts go?
Good luck with the rebuild and look forward to seeing the car in action.