Motors and Me

Another trackday, another great sense of relief that I’ve not bankrupted myself by crashing into a Porsche. More than that, though, Donington was a great learning experience. The trackday used the National circuit, missing out the Melbourne loop. (Track map nicked from www.msportuk.com .) All other tracks I’ve driven have been fairly flat, former-airfield affairs. Well, with the exception of Rockingham, but even that was pancake-like. Donington, on the other hand, is full of swoops and sweeps just waiting to catch you out. And catch me out is exactly what they did. None moreso than Craner Curves. I’d been warned by a friend (and former racer) not to lift off at Craner Curves, as I’d soon be facing the wrong way. Well, I didn’t lift off, but I did overestimate the Mini’s ability to take corners whilst simultaneously underestimating the effect of the track’s gradient changes. Consequently, the car oversteered and lurched sideways onto the grass, collecting half a football pitch

It’s winter trackday time again and this time I’m off to Donington Park on Sunday 29th. While the prospect of Craner Curves on a wet circuit may well be one to put your heart in your mouth, I really need a wet track if I’m not to be thrashed by all-comers. Yes, I know it’s not a race, but it is bragging rights. If I can bag one Porsche and one TVR, I’ll be a happy bunny. Humbling a Noble, however, would be a new experience. I just hope the weather lends me the helping hand I’ll need.