Goodwood Trackday for Novices

[TimLambert7]

Been considering a track day at Goodwood Motor Circuit.

I've heard from several sources it's a scary track - very quick, minimal run-off and unforgiving. Those same sources told me it was a really rewarding circuit to get right and really good fun. I'd love to drive the track as I spend so much time spectating there.

Based on those reviews, I'm wondering if it's really a good venue for a relative novice?

For the record, I've got some (but not much) experience on a race track and I'd be driving my Twingo 133.

[TimLambert7]

Thanks to you both for responses.

Cpt Stirling said:

May I suggest you consider one of the Goodwood Track Days - sold as a package I believe - either 1/2 or full day - I appreciate you may already know that. Go round with an instructor initially to build your confidence, learn the track & take advantage of their knowledge. They are well menaged and the marshalls are good at dealing with 'over exuberance' shall we say. They limit the number of cars on track to about 10 at any one time and consideration is given to different levels of ability/experience. Just take it easy to start with.

I've been looking at the 'standard' track day package, half day for now. I recall it says they include tuition which will be a big bonus for me.

My thoughts are that as long as I appreciate the risks, get the instructors guidance and don't try and Senna-esque moves I should be OK?!

[TimLambert7]

T-Rev said:

Hi All, I used to run track days at Goodwood for a period of about 14 years, as well as providing instruction, participating and also running/competing in Sprints. It is without question a fantastic classic race track with all the heritage that goes with it and very well worth the experience in actually driving it. IMHO an absolute must for any motorsport enthusiast. Though as already mentioned, do take instruction and do take your time to build up your confidence and speed - I've seen far too many gung-ho drivers who thought they knew it all, only to end up in a tyre wall with a very expensive repair bill!! There is now only one gravel trap and the run off areas as mentioned should be avoided at all costs - especially on the outside of the track as you probably won't stop until you hit a very hard earth backed truck tyre wall? That said, if you're in the right frame of mind and even if you do get it wrong, you can generally keep it on the black stuff and scrub off a lot of speed without hitting anything. Please also bear in mind, Goodwood is 2.4 miles, very fast and therefore quite hard on the car in terms of brakes, tyres and even engines - of course depending on how hard its being driven. As a consequence, I used to run 15 min sessions in order to help keep everything in check as best as possible which worked very well - the point being, if you enter an open pit lane event, you need to consider the potential impact on your car of doing too many laps e.g. limit the number of laps to about 5. I'm sure you'll have a great time, so get out there and give it a go.
Best regards,
Trevor.

Thanks Trevor.

I was worrying today about the brake/tyre wear I might experience. Fortunately my Twingo only weighs just over a ton and I won't be pushing the limits of physics at every bend.

The 5 lap rule is a good one and certainly something I'll stick to.

The gung ho advice is also valuable. My car is no speed machine and I'll certainly be taking it nice and easy.

Provided I follow your advice, do you think a half-day can be undertaken without much trouble? I don't want to go on a half day and need a new set of tyres by the end...

Thanks again.

[TimLambert7]

ecsrobin said:

I think I need to join you Tim as I haven't done a track day in my civic typeS and being a regular to goodwood would like to have a plod out with similar novices in similar "low powered" cars.

I'm about 99% at the moment but I've got a half day PM on November 15th in my sights.

Can anyone tell me the format of a Goodwood track day? Open pit-lane, sessions, times of PM session etc. etc.

Thanks