My First Track Day

I never knew that you could take your own car around a race track, I only found out when a friend invited me to my first driving event (also known as an HPDE - High-Performance Driver Education).  I was pretty excited, but more than a little daunted because I had no idea what to expect.  Was I going to be too slow with race cars zooming by me left and right?

If you’re on the fence about trying out HPDE, unsure about what to expect, or just curious how it goes down, read on. 

My Car

The first doubt I had; my car is a Subaru Forrester and not a race car. Is that ok? The answer is: YES. Anything street legal is allowed other than Mini-Vans. Are sedans and coups the best option? Yes. But some SUVs work too. We have even seen 1984 Volvos on track having just as much fun!

Arriving

When you arrive at the track you’ll first be stopped at the gate to sign a waiver for the race track itself. This is separate from the club’s waiver, which you may have already signed on your cell phone - they just love collecting your autograph.

Next stop is to find a place to park your car in the paddock. People will already be parking their cars - some with trailers, some not - just pick a spot where there’s room.  Some tracks have garages and carports, but you tend to need to rent these. 

The Paddock (aka Parking Lot)

The paddock will be a flurry of activity with people pulling their cars off trailers, torquing tires, changing wheels, emptying their cars and greeting each other.  As a first timer, don’t be daunted by this - most novice drivers will be just like you - rolling up in their daily driver to see what this track driving business is all about.

The organization you’re driving with will email instructions out ahead of time, but generally in the morning you need to:

1. Register! Go to the registration desk, pick up a track map, a schedule, and numbers for your car. They’ll also be able to help you if you’re not sure what to do next.
2. Empty your car - nothing in the trunk, glove box or door pockets.  Leave your golf clubs at home!
3. Take your car to tech inspection! This is a once over, and varies by organization.  They may check your helmet, wheel torque, brake fluid moisture level, battery is secure, your car is empty, your belts are good, etc. Passing tech with a well maintained street car isn’t difficult, just remember to follow the organization’s pre-track checklist that would have been emailed in advance.
4. Go to the driver’s meeting!  This is the kick off meeting that will explain how the day will be organized, where passes will be on the track, and other logistical things. This meeting is important, so don’t miss it!
5. Meet your instructor.  This won’t be on your written schedule, but if you haven’t met them already, this is a great time to meet your instructor and have them explain how they’ll help coach you through the day. They’re a great resource - if you have any questions, are unsure about anything, feeling nervous etc, speak up - everyone is on your side and wants you to have a great day!

Classroom

HPDE is High-Performance Driver Education - you’ll be coached from the passenger seat, but also have classroom sessions where you can deep dive into topics, ask questions and understand concepts in a much lower stress environment than at 100mph on the race track.  Classroom sessions will always happen before you go out on track, so any unknowns that are gnawing at you can be clarified there. You’ll generally be given information about the flags and their meaning, how passing is handled, the track layout, and some general advice about High Performance Driving.  As the day progresses the classroom will move into more driving topics like the line, balance, car control etc.

On track

First time I went on track I was honestly worried that people would be flying by me, cutting me off in turns and all sorts of other nonsense that’s never happened.  Here are some things that I was glad to have clarified for me.

1. Drivers are grouped by skill & experience. All the drivers on the track at the same time as you have a similar level of experience, so you don’t need to be worried about being completely outclassed or being the slowest car out there.
2. People are not allowed to pass you unless you let them by! A “point-by” is a signal out of the window of your car, or using your blinker, that indicates that the driver behind may pass you.  They are only allowed to pass you when you give them this signal, and you choose which side you want them to pass you on. The choice of when and where they pass you is up to you.
3. You’re allowed to pass! This is a weird one, but speaks to my personal experience. My first ever session on track I caught up to a car in front of me, then slowed down to build up a gap, so I could drive fast again to scratch them up. Somehow with all the information I was given I hadn’t understood that if you’re faster, then you can pass.  Once you’re close enough to the car in front, they’ll signal with a point-by for you to pass. Sometimes it takes a few turns, especially in the novice group, but if you’re there, be patient and it’ll happen.
4. We know how aggressive drivers can be with each other on the highway - on the race track, there’s no aggression.  People may be faster, they may bear down on you quickly, but behind the wheel of the cars around you are like-minded people that are here having fun.  No one is going to lay on their horn or flash their lights at you because you’re in their way. No driver on the race track you’re sharing is trying to intimidate you. Don’t forget that.
5. Get a ride-along with an instructor! It’s both exhilarating and amazing to experience what a car is capable of on the race track with a capable driver. It’s a rollercoaster ride you don't want to miss. Ask your assigned instructor, or the event organizer - you’ll be glad you did.

Conclusion

High Performance Driving is extremely fun, but a little nerve wrecking for first-timers. Ask questions and try to not be too nervous.  It’s an absolute blast and we need new drivers like you to keep the sport alive, so it’s in our best interest to help you out as much as possible! Here’s a list of bullets that can be a starting point for your pre-track checklist. 

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Preparation for Yourself:

• Read the Rules: The club, driving organization, or event organizer will have guidelines and specifications, such as what you need to do with your car, what clothes you’re allowed to wear, when to arrive, etc.
• Safety Gear: Make sure you have a helmet that meets the event’s specifications.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing, pants and closed-toe shoes. Shorts are typically prohibited - check the event guidelines.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Bring plenty of water and snacks. Staying hydrated and energized is crucial for maintaining focus.

Preparation for Your Car:

• Tech Inspection: Have a qualified mechanic perform a thorough tech inspection before your HPDE day. These inspections are typically free.
• Brakes: Ensure your brake pads have plenty of life left and your brake fluid is no older than 12 months. Consider using high-performance brake fluid.
• Tires: Check that your tires are in good condition.
• Fluids: Top off all essential fluids, most importantly oil and brake fluid.

On the Track:

• Listen to Instructors: Pay close attention to the instructors. They will guide you through the basics of track driving and help you improve your skills.
• Track Etiquette: Learn and follow the track rules and flags. This ensures safety for you and others on the track.
• Pace Yourself: Start slow and gradually build up your speed as you become more comfortable. Focus on smooth and controlled driving rather than outright speed.

Mindset:

• Stay Calm: It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember that HPDEs are designed for learning. Everyone starts somewhere!
• Have Fun: Enjoy the experience and the opportunity to learn more about your car and driving skills!

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