DRFT_Z33

If there is one planned in either oct or anytime after i would love go attend one ... i should be back from Iraq by then and have my new wheels and springs installed too ... damn i hate missing runs ... oh yeah just as long as you dont plan on the same day as D1 GP ...

kiliki76

Scott, I checked out the web site of that driving clinic. But there is no price. About how much is it? Also, it says convertables need roll bars. Is the stock Z roll bars enough?

Thanks Chris

AudioPat

Hey Chris...check the web site again...it says Registration $195

That' a small price to pay for a day at the track with instruction

Scott Webb

For anyone who is planning to attend the July 25 clinic, drive on up the night before and watch the annual Cal Club 6-Hour Enduro from 5 pm-11 pm. There's something special about watching sports cars race into the night, and there aren't many opportunities to do that so close to LA.

The race typically features a neat assortment of cars including purpose-built sports racers, exotic GT cars (a 911 GT-3 Cup won overall last year) and a variety of sedans. I'll be driving the Team Automobile Magazine Nissan 240SX, which won this race overall in 2002. Come on out and root for the Nissan team!

kiliki76

Thanks Pat.....didn't see that. You're right too, I think that's a great price.

Anybody know about my rollbar question?

Scott Webb

I remember that they've allowed a few roadsters with factory roll-over protection at previous events, but I'd recommend contacting Les Phillips (lesrace@aol.com) to get the latest information. He runs the track and the school.

Grey Matter

Is the July 25th clinic full? Also is the heat up there a factor on either the July or August dates?

Ed 718

iTrader: (32)

Pat can I go just to spectate rather than race or participate...Ed

zman23

iTrader: (31)

We can, it looks like we have to pay $10 to enter, unless theres a fee for this race that there having at night? I would say there probably is but does sound like a fun thing to do for sure!!

AudioPat

Have to check with Scott on that question Ed..I'm not involved with the Buttonwillow Racing School, although it looks like it would be fun to do..if enough people we know register for the class, I might be willing to ride up as a spectator too

Ed 718

iTrader: (32)

Sorry Pat I meant Scott for my question....I guess I'm tired..

Scott Webb

Spectators/friends/family are welcome at the clinics, although they cannot ride with students. They can, however, ride with instructors. Unfortunately, I'll likely have my van and trailer up there because of the race the night before.

I'm not sure what the fee is to spectate either day/evening, but I believe that it is $10 for a typical race day/weekend. You can get quite close to the racing action at Buttonwillow, and there's even a tower for an elevated view. There are picnic tables and permanent rest rooms, as well as a snack bar (although I don't know how late into the evening it will remain open).

Les Phillips of Buttonwillow would be able to answer questions about how many slots are left for the July 25 clinic. It is likely to be hot during the day, but the evening/night should be great for racing and watching.

Scott Webb

From Buttonwillow's Les Phillips:
=============================
Scott,

We have plenty of room and the 350Z [Roadster] is ok if it has what they describe as factory rollover protection.

Les
=============================

G35to350Z-12

I know Scott Web already posted his response from Les at Buttonwillow.

I just want to mention that I took my 2004 350Z Roadster to the May 9, 2004 Performance Driving clinic. I too sent an email to Les and he confirmed the car is fine.

Some cars like Mazda Miata do not have any roll bar and must install after-market roll bars.

Had a great time and Scott was kind enough to seek me out and give me my first ride around the track (he drove my car for a couple of laps to give me familiarization).

For anyone who is going, be sure to post your car description (if not in your avatar or signature) and let Scott or other instructors that browse the 350Z web site a chance to seek you at the track, in case you haven't met already (which was my circumstance).

If you don't have a full-face helmet, they have one to rent for about $10/day.

Bring lots of water and ice and keep hydrated throughout the day.

And take the time between your group runs to visit the skid pad. I thought it was a good experience.

The only thing that I thought they could improve upon is to announce over the loudspeakers (which they have) which group is just ending and which group will begin. I never heard a group call, so I watched carefully so as not to miss my group.

Jeff D.