Track day
This article needs additional citations for verification. (July 2009) |
A track day is an organised event in which non-members are allowed to drive or ride around established
Formats
There are varying formats for the proceedings, but they usually consist of two or three groups loosely corresponding to an individual's level of
Racing schools
Track days are also often held in the guise of racing schools where the emphasis is on nurturing the finer
Benefits
As the performance of vehicles (especially in relation to motorcycles) increases, the track day can prove an invaluable means of improving the skills necessary to properly control these machines at or nearing their full potential in relative safety. It is a common feedback from track day enthusiasts that it helps them define the massive distinction between road and track riding/driving styles and as a result, through improved skill levels and attitudes, can have a positive effect on their
Open pit lane events
As riders and drivers become more secure with their abilities and the track environment they can progress to "Open-
Flags
Track day marshals will use a number of different colour flags to alert drivers and riders of potential dangers and penalties throughout the day, with each colour or combination of colours meaning something different:
- Yellow. A yellow flag means there is some kind of danger or hazard ahead, so one needs to be extra cautious and vigilant, and must not overtake another driver.
- Red. A red flag means there has been a serious incident and the track day session has been aborted; one must slow down and return to the pits (or where otherwise directed) without overtaking.
- Yellow/Red. A striped yellow and red flag means that either debris has been sighted on the track or that grip is poor, so one must take extra caution.
- Blue. A blue flag means that another vehicle wishes to overtake and one should take caution and let the other vehicle pass when it is safe to do so.
- Black. A black flag can signify one of two things: either the marshals have spotted a problem with one's vehicle (e.g. smoke, oil) or one's behaviour on the track is too aggressive and deemed to be a danger to oneself and/or others; in either case, if one is black-flagged, one must slow down and return to the pits immediately.
References
- ISBN 9781844254828.
External links
- Motorcycle schools at Curlie
- Auto racing schools at Curlie