I'd tried to do a track-day at Bedford Autodrome in December 2010, but what with snow, frost and fog, it was cancelled. Bedford Autodrome is operated by Motorsport Vision and concentrates on Corporate days and track-days. They don't use the circuit for races. EVO magazine use a section of the circuit for car testing.
On the 26th February, I had another chance but when I arrived at the circuit, the clouds and damp seemed to be suggesting I might have to be careful through the day.
And so it proved. As we headed out for our familiarisation laps (compulsory at most track-days to see where the marshalls are and where the corners go!), the rain came. And came...
It was soon apparent that it was getting really wet. In fact on my first venture on the circuit, I spun at the first corner - some were so difficult, it was like being on ice. I took some tuition in the morning which really helped and as I got to know the circuit, my confidence rose.
Perhaps this was the best time for Simon and some of his family & friends to come and see me. Simon looks after Get Embroidered who have supplied the excellent teamwear I wear at circuits. Simon's support has been really appreciated.
As the track began to dry, I took Simon and his troupe on a few laps each to give them a feel of what it's like in the car. I'm told they really enjoyed it (though Simon couldn't do more than one lap for fear of being ill!!).
With just 30-40 minutes of the day left, the track was completely dry and I was able to push the car in it's Roadsport-B set-up.
Thanks to Ian 'DOPE' Davies for his help in the day. I really can't wait for the season to begin.
Another MSV circuit exposes me to Jonathan Palmer's restriction over video viewing so I'll avoid any chance of a £25,000 fine and complain about not being able to show you instead...
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