BRANDS HATCH novice track day

The throttle is still wide open as I roar past the brake board. As late as I dare I drop anchor, heel-toe down to third and, trail braking slightly, I tip my car into the corner and over the precipice that is Paddock Hill Bend. I can feel the rear start to slide... Once I have the nose pointed keenly toward the blind apex, I squeeze the throttle to its stop and power the car toward the outside rumble strips and into the mighty compression at the bottom of the hill...

I've had a lot of fun on many of Britain's roads, but taking the same car I use out there, then actually exploring the outer edge of its performance envelope on a track - continuously and without fear of having a big accident or speeding penalty - is nothing short of phenomenal. The rush and the confidence it gives can't be described. Not by me anyway.

There are a few things about track days that put off a lot of people: their car is too slow; they will be monstered off the track by experienced drivers; they might have a big crash... those things made me hesitant about trackdays as well. But after taking the plunge (literally) I can tell you there's nothing to be had but huge fun, and great stories to tell of the day. Read on...
 

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