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track days

Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve always wanted to get out on a race circuit but didn’t know how to go about it, what you need is a track day. These are days where you can take your own road-going car or bike around a track and really find out what it’s like to push it to the limit. If you have never driven or ridden on a track day before then this guide is for you! We are aiming to make it easy to book onto a day and to make the day really enjoyable once you get here.

Rockingham > Track Days > Beginners' Track Day Guide

Beginners' track day guide


What is a track day?

A track day is an event at which you can drive/ride your own vehicle on track, with no speed restrictions. It's the one place you can test your vehicle to the limit without having to worry about speed cameras and the range of dangers faced on public roads.

Your first priority is to book a day where you are going to feel comfortable with the level of track time you are getting. Check out the links below for a full explanation of open pit lane, sessions, taster days and also some of our most frequently asked questions.
Open Pit Lane
If you want to go out on track whenever you choose, then an open pit lane day is for you. It simply means the track is open all day - apart from a lunch break - and you can drive as much as you like. If you want to run for lap after lap, you can - or if you want to do a few laps, come into the pits and change your setup then go back out again - this day allows you to do so. Remember driving on circuit takes a lot of concentration so it is important to manage your time sensibly.
Sessions

Days which run in sessions absolutely guarantee a set amount of track time where you have a window - or session, usually 20 or 30 minutes - out on track with drivers/riders of similar experience. If you want to measure your performance against your others and work to a structured timetable, then this type of day is best for you. You'll be divided into groups - usually novice, intermediate and expert - and then head out on track within your group.
Instruction

It’s well worth investing in a session with an instructor, even if you are an extremely experienced rider or driver. The instructor can help calm your nerves, explain track etiquette if you didn’t catch all of it at the briefing and guide you around the track making sure you don’t make any embarassing faux pas, such as missing the pit lane entry!

FAQ's
Q. With an Open Pit Lane how much time will I get on track?
A. 09:00 - 17:00 with one hour lunch break. Between November and February due to daylight hours track activity finishes at dusk.

Q. It's my first track day, can I get some tuition?
A. Yes tuition is available from our professional ARDS instructors for £20. They will also be on hand throughout the day to offer free advice.

Q. What grade of fuel can I get at the venue?
A. Our on-site fuel station sells diesel, unleaded and super unleaded.

Q. What is the difference between open pit lane and sessions?
A. Sessions means that drivers will be split into two groups and will go out on track for timed sessions (usually 20 or 30 minutes). The advantage of this is faster and slower drivers can be separated to allow drivers to maximize their potential. Open pit lane allows drivers to go out on track as and when they please (provided the on track capacity has not been reached) allowing maximum track time all day.

Q. Am I allowed a passenger or spectators?
A. Yes spectators are welcome, as well as passengers. Passengers must sign an indemnity form before getting in the car.

Q. Am I allowed an additional driver?
A. Yes you are allowed one additional driver at no extra cost, however, there is a charge of £25 per person thereafter.

Q. Can I film my track day?
A. If you would like to film your day the camera must be securely fixed within the car and a filming indemnity form must be signed - these are available on request. No handheld cameras are permitted.

Q. What do I need to wear?
A. Helmets must be worn. We advise you to wear long sleeved tops, trousers and we advise sensible shoes or trainers. Shorts are not permitted.

Q. What do I need to bring?
A. You NEED to bring both parts your full driving licence. If you have a helmet which complies with MSA/ACU regulations you should bring it along, if not one can be hired for a charge of £20.

Q. How can I guarantee a garage?
A. Garages are provided on a first-come-first-serve basis which can be reserved in advance for £25

Q. Are there noise restrictions?
A. Yes, all cars must pass a static test of 98db; noise will be monitored throughout the day.

Q. Will weather affect the track day?
A. Extreme weather conditions could result in the track layout being altered. In the unlikely event of the day being cancelled we will refund you or reschedule you onto another track day.

Q. What if I have to cancel?
A. You can cancel up to seven days prior to the event, or you can change to a different date.

 

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