Update -
So I thought it cast nice before, but now it casts really well. I followed whrlpool's advice on starting with the guides up and following the line and it allowed me to make a few small tweaks that made a noticeable difference (for the better) in the casting.
So although I James did provide a guide chart, it wasn't absolute - I'll post it below.
And then per James -
"Here's a chart, I think the 8' rod spacing with 10 guides is better...the first 5 guides from the tip will be the same, just move the next 5 guides a little closer together. 2/0-2/0-2/0-2/0-1/0-1/0-1/0-1-2-#8 or #9 stripper. This is for Pac Bay. Snake brand 1/0 are the same as Pac Bay 2/0. Put the curve of the rod up...put the guides on the down side, its ok to turn the tip side to side to make it look as straight as possible. Grip should be 6" I prefer downlock and shorten the seat to 3 1/4" to 3 5/8" just long enough so your reels all fit. 3 thin coats of thread master, 5-6 coats min wax spar."
so I initially followed the spacing of the 8ft, which lead to the stripping guide being very close to the grip. Funny thing is is that when I followed Whrlpool's method, I ended up with the stripping guide at the exact same placement as the 7'9ft spacing chart, with a blend of spacing between the 2 suggested charts.
My spacing, in case anyone ever finds it useful is -
4 5/8
10 1/8
15 7/8
22 3/8
28 7/8
36
43 1/2
52 1/8
60 5/8
69 3/4
Thank you all again for the input, I cant wait to get this wrapped and out on the water.