Originally Posted by x'ed
i just figured less cars meant more runs. in any case, i would like there to be a little less traffic, so i can go slow in peace lol.
If you would like to participate in your events / sessions at a pace that would make you feel more comfortable, and less pressured with many cars behind you, then all you have to do is grid-up at the back of your group, that way you will not have anyone crawling-up your tail pipe for about 5-6 laps.
I think you might be a bit too anxious about being pressured by faster cars and more aggressive drivers. There is NO PASSING during turns in HPDE 1, the only passing allowed is on clear-open straights. And once you get a hang for the track, you'll feel like you're driving down the freeway because everyone is pretty much going the same speed you are.
To be candid with you, I find it more fun when I'm in a tight bunch of cars traveling at similar speeds, nose to tail. This might be a bad analogy, but It's kinda like playing a video game alone, or against someone else. The more, the merrier !!!
Most importantly, you have to remember, everyone in your group (HPDE 1) has basically the same anxiety and the same skill level. So, they are all out there to try to learn and become comfortable on a racetrack in a safe environment, that's why you can't just jump-in on these NASA events without being approved and or taught by a "Ride Along" instructor . You'll probably feel safer on the track at a NASA event than you will driving back home after the event.
Also, you really have to understand that this little Crossfire has some great handling characteristics and some terrific (annoying, in my opinion) ESP / ABS... It almost won't let you F-up... Hell I've had to take most of the computer system out of the car just so I can drive it like the old sportscars I'm used to...
Just participate at a level that makes you feel comfortable for the first event. Nobody is going to rag on you if you run at a slower pace, nobody is going to pat you on the back if you break the land speed record. You're there with an instructor who's sole purpose is to teach you some of the tricks of the trade and get you and your car home in one piece and have a smile on your face.
PS: Just pray to the NASA GODS that you get Miss Annie Tam as your instructor
MMZ-TimeLord will understand that statement
And we'll explain when we see you at the track.