track events in south FL?

pcoghlan · #1 (**permalink**) 02-27-2009, 03:35 AM

So with my GD about a week from being on the road I am interested in seeing if I can get it on a track anywhere.

I know the GD isn't too common here but the chassis is well suited to racing so I am keen to see what it can do.

www.xoods.com/images/frame.JPG

Being a European Cobra I will let the cat out of the bag right now and admit it is running a 383 stroker SBC. Whilst many of you will reach for the barf bag this is a fairly common combo back in the UK where it was built.

Paul

Bailey · #2 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 10:21 AM

Paul, NASA has a two day event at Sebring at the end of March. You will need a passenger side roll bar though for the instructor if you are in the novice group.
Cheers,
Richard

pcoghlan · #3 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 02:28 PM

Thanks Richard, most appreciated.

The car does has twin roll bars so unless there are other requirements I should be good to go.

Paul

Bailey · #4 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 02:35 PM

Excellent.
I know a couple of local Cobras are going, and a Jelly Bean or two.
http://www.drivenasafl.com
Cheers,
Richard

Gatorac · #5 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 05:17 PM

That's an impressive chassis.

My suggestion is Chin Motorsports. Lots more track time and handsome instructors with mad skills.

I'll be at Sebring the weekend of 4/18 with Chin.

You may also want to look at upcoming events at Homestead. It's a great track with some interesting corners.

pcoghlan · #6 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 06:18 PM

Gatorac, the GD is built specifically for circuit racing. Mine has a massive 14 miles on the clock, of which I have driven about half of a mile so I am looking to get a few miles on it in the coming weeks.

Reading the NASA regs briefly it would almost appear a full width roll bar is needed?

Oh, and yes I will indeed be in the novice group.

The thing that also concerns me is that certain things are British specs, harnesses (Willans) and seats etc. I might bring the car along to see if I can get it inspected for a subsequent event. At least I will then know if I would be allowed to participate.

Many thanks for the input.

Paul

Gatorac · #7 (**permalink**) 03-01-2009, 06:35 PM

You will have not issue with your car at a Chin event.

I think it all comes down to what your ultimate goal is. NASA gives a path to wheel to wheel racing. You are sharing your track time with a lot more people though. Chin is a little less formal. It's open track time. Some racers will come and test but for the most part it's just enthusiasts learning to drive fast, honing their skills and seeing what their car can do.

Plan on having a new addiction....

Bailey · #8 (**permalink**) 03-02-2009, 02:20 PM

Jim, based on your continual praise of Chin, I am going to join them for a year, and try to make the April weekend. Not sure if I'll have the new car by ten, (still in S.A.), but I'll find something.

Feffman · #9 (**permalink**) 03-02-2009, 02:34 PM

We (www.MVPTrackTime.com) are planning to expand to Florida (and Texas) in 2010. Hope you guys will join us then.

Mark Pfeffer

Gatorac · #10 (**permalink**) 03-02-2009, 02:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bailey

Jim, based on your continual praise of Chin, I am going to join them for a year, and try to make the April weekend. Not sure if I'll have the new car by ten, (still in S.A.), but I'll find something.

I thought that thing was supposed to be delivered by now? The waiting must be driving you crazy.

Bailey · #11 (**permalink**) 03-03-2009, 10:06 AM

Yeah, just found out this morning. She won't ship for another two weeks, so no April event for me. AARRGH