Do we ever have TM3 meets at tracks?

[KING1307]

Hey all, only joined tm3 about a month or so agao and im just wondering, if we ever have meets at tracks? I think it'd be awesome if we all went out to mosport sometime in the summer and did a few laps, had a few bbq's etc. Does this ever happen?

[iGOzoom]

Hmm I'd be interested in something like this...

[hyper7boy]

Not sure if I would throw my car on the track but I would definitely go to the meet simply to just socialize and see some MZ3's on the track..Good idea!!

[dentinger]

i'd be down for that. ive been wanting to dyno/track/drag my car this year, and see what it can do before i mod anything else on it.

[Rob23]

theres the C7 spring/fall cruises. cruise through the country roads to the track. its not just mazdas but tones of other cars, last fall we went to kawartha downs speedway.

[Donutz]

Pick a date for Track School here: http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?51383-2011-Event-Schedule

[gabbygenier]

just come to ottawa and well go to the dragstip, we did it twice last summer and this summer were talking about camping there one weekend :D

[schmat66]

id be dowwn

[Nick]

eggxactly,sign up for the ian law driving school, i think he has 4-5 days for the season. i usually go to cayuga or shannonville for the 1/4. wednesdays are the best for test and tune compared to the busy fridays at cayuga. it's a nice drive down too!

[n00bMeiSter]

As someone else posted C7 does a spring/fall tour, and I think there's usually a Cayuga day (or two) over the summer.

[Donutz]

Do you go to a skate park and stand on the side with your helmet and skateboard?

[n00bMeiSter]

Do you go to a skate park and stand on the side with your helmet and skateboard?

Sometimes.

[MajesticBlueNTO]

there are a bunch of us that go to a track for lapping.

donutz actually pasted a 2011 schedule in the tracking/handling thread.

you can find most of us at either the Ian Law or Sigma Racing Time Attack events.

as for the Ian Law events, you won't be allowed on the track for lapping unless you've taken his track school. if you don't have equivalent experience, he can (and has) denied people from partaking in the lapping.

however, it costs nothing to come along for the day and, as long as you sign the waiver and have a helmet, you can ride along in other people's cars.



if you would like to lap your car, in all honesty, if you've never been to a track school, you should take one so that you can learn how to properly lap your car (and get the most out of it) in a controlled environment.

if you're good in GT5 or Forza, you may not necessarily be good on the track... now you have 3000 lbs+ of car to toss around and there is no reset button if things go awry.



Sigma Racing welcomes all drivers to their events - beginner, novice, pro - and is a very well run event. If you are a n00b, you can usually ask someone to ride along with you and show you the lines. like stated above, you can also ask someone for a ride-along.


i encourage those that want to start tracking to do so with an open mind ...

* regardless of how good you think you are, there is always someone better
* lapping events aren't wheel-to-wheel racing and there are rules in place to make it a safe day for everyone - one of them being passing in designated zones only and only after a signal from the car being passed
* bottom line is drive within your limits/comfort zone (which will grow the more you go) and have fun


TM3 needs more drivers and less hard parkers :)

[MajesticBlueNTO]

Hey all, only joined tm3 about a month or so agao and im just wondering, if we ever have meets at tracks? I think it'd be awesome if we all went out to mosport sometime in the summer and did a few laps, had a few bbq's etc. Does this ever happen?

Mosport's GP/Big Track isn't the track to go and "do a few laps" on if you've never tracked your car before...let alone had proper instruction.

Mosport's DDT/Driver Development Track is a good track to learn on, especially for the Mazda3...however, going on the track usually requires a $150-200 (depending on organizer) entrance fee for lapping.... $300 or more if you do a school

[Fobio]

I've already talked with Ami...this is going to happen this year one way or another.

TM3/MS3 meet at the track...BBQ for spectators...some lappers and instructors will give rides. No one will be allowed to just in in and lap...but we can organize alligator/parade laps.

Stay tuned.

[Iceman_F1]

Pick a date for Track School here: http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?51383-2011-Event-Schedule

I took a quick look at that list. How would you compare HPDE - Max Performance Driving School to Ian Law?


I've already talked with Ami...this is going to happen this year one way or another.

TM3/MS3 meet at the track...BBQ for spectators...some lappers and instructors will give rides. No one will be allowed to just in in and lap...but we can organize alligator/parade laps.

Stay tuned.

This would be pretty awesome. If you are one of the lappers, I'd love to go for a ride in your car.

[n00bMeiSter]

TM3 needs more drivers and less hard parkers :)

But I'm good at parking!

As for the hard part.... :No Homo Smiley




I'd be interested in doing a Beginners Track Day, as I don't have much track experience, provided the price is right.

[Donutz]

I took a quick look at that list. How would you compare HPDE - Max Performance Driving School to Ian Law?



This would be pretty awesome. If you are one of the lappers, I'd love to go for a ride in your car.

I would suggest starting with ILR. It is a smaller track, which is arguably safer; and you don't have to worry about blind corners. Also, Ian runs a tight ship, and you won't find the shinanigans that you sometimes see with other event coordinators. Ian's school is cheaper; and once you pass through his school, lapping is cheaper than MP as well.

Max Performance is on the GP track, and you will be running with some very high end, exotic cars; and some less exotic cars making respectable power. The track is challenging and speeds are much higher. I posted MP because my coworkers brother is head instructor; I plan to run a day or two with them this year so I thought I'd post up their schedule.

[Donutz]

I'd be interested in doing a Beginners Track Day, as I don't have much track experience, provided the price is right.

You don't get experience unless you go ;) Track school is worth every penny. You will have the chance to learn in a controlled environment, and you will be in a class of people who have fairly similar driving skills.

[Iceman_F1]

I would suggest starting with ILR. It is a smaller track, which is arguably safer; and you don't have to worry about blind corners. Also, Ian runs a tight ship, and you won't find the shinanigans that you sometimes see with other event coordinators. Ian's school is cheaper; and once you pass through his school, lapping is cheaper than MP as well.

Max Performance is on the GP track, and you will be running with some very high end, exotic cars; and some less exotic cars making respectable power. The track is challenging and speeds are much higher. I posted MP because my coworkers brother is head instructor; I plan to run a day or two with them this year so I thought I'd post up their schedule.

Thanks for the info. Really helpful. I know myself and 1 or 2 of my friends were going to make a serious attempt at it and we were trying to figure which would be best. ILR seems like the one to go with.

[MajesticBlueNTO]

I'd be interested in doing a Beginners Track Day, as I don't have much track experience, provided the price is right.

Sign up for the Ian Law track school at the DDT...that is a "Beginner's Track Day".

As for price, think of it this way, Driver Mod > "performance" mods. People pay more for an exhaust which yields no real performance benefit. People buy springs and think their car handles better but they've never really found the limits of their stock setup...

[Nick]

i checked out ILR's website, doesn't say anything about a helmet. i think most likely but not sure, is it mandatory? can a motorcycle helmet be used?

[Donutz]

Helmet is mandatory. Ian might have a limited number of loaners. Motorcycle helmet is acceptable at Ian's school. I belive you are required to have a SA rated helmet if you have a roll cage, but it's best to email Ian to find out.

[n00bMeiSter]

Thanks for the info. Really helpful. I know myself and 1 or 2 of my friends were going to make a serious attempt at it and we were trying to figure which would be best. ILR seems like the one to go with.

Of course, but I was talking more along the lines of doing a TM3 group thing. And maybe even seeing if we can get some sort of group rate. I like what I've read about ILR and what I've heard in person about them, so I'll probably go there if no beginners group event happens.



Sign up for the Ian Law track school at the DDT...that is a "Beginner's Track Day".

As for price, think of it this way, Driver Mod > "performance" mods. People pay more for an exhaust which yields no real performance benefit. People buy springs and think their car handles better but they've never really found the limits of their stock setup...

Of course, no doubt about it. However, in my case, I need new suspension (springs + shocks) before I can consider going to the track, as my shocks are completely dead and my springs are dying too.

[Iceman_F1]

Of course, but I was talking more along the lines of doing a TM3 group thing. And maybe even seeing if we can get some sort of group rate. I like what I've read about ILR and what I've heard in person about them, so I'll probably go there if no beginners group event happens.

That would be nice to do but if nothing happens at least I have info to pass along to my friends.

[n00bMeiSter]

That would be nice to do but if nothing happens at least I have info to pass along to my friends.

Exactly.
And if it doesn't happen, let me know when you're thinking of going, I may just come out and join you (as long as I have new suspension heh)

[Dave_The_BMXER]

If we did another ILR group rate I would probably be interested. I'm doing the SGR winter driving deal March 27th and want to do more.

Wouldn't mind hitting an auto x this year too.

[thanu31]

i would be interested in a ILR group rate too

[p-o-g-i]

If we did another ILR group rate I would probably be interested. I'm doing the SGR winter driving deal March 27th and want to do more.

Wouldn't mind hitting an auto x this year too.

Oh dang!!!! I didn't know SGR is still around?!?!?! That group has been around for a long time......

[S.F.W.]

i would be interested in a ILR group rate too

going to try and set something up for late spring/early summer/

[sp3GT]

^ I'd be interested in a ILR group rate too.

[WLS ZMZM]

As would I.. I only have very limited experience circuit racing... and I've been looking for a good course especially since I've been working on my setup!

[smitty519]

^ I'd be interested, too! Definitely lacking on track experience here

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

If we're serious about this, I have some friends in the racing field/industry that might be able to help us organize a TM3 track day/performance driving event. They can even offer track day insurance for those that want/need it.

Here is a link to the site and I'll discuss with Ami and see what we can come up with.

There are some pretty cool videos also on the main page. Enjoy.
http://www.myautomotivehookup.com/

[Fobio]

before putting my car on the track with a whole bunch of strangers with various levels of skills, capabilities and courage, let's all get together for a outdoor go-kart meet...a little taster.

if we're doing a TM3 track day, I'd be more comfortable to be on-track with ppl who are experienced, been through track school training, and know the rules.

[Iceman_F1]

before putting my car on the track with a whole bunch of strangers with various levels of skills, capabilities and courage, let's all get together for a outdoor go-kart meet...a little taster.

if we're doing a TM3 track day, I'd be more comfortable to be on-track with ppl who are experienced, been through track school training, and know the rules.

Pretty good idea!

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

before putting my car on the track with a whole bunch of strangers with various levels of skills, capabilities and courage, let's all get together for a outdoor go-kart meet...a little taster.

if we're doing a TM3 track day, I'd be more comfortable to be on-track with ppl who are experienced, been through track school training, and know the rules.

Leave this with me. I need to wait until spring and then chat with the owners to see what their plans are this year and whether they will be running the rentals etc., but there is a 1km long outdoor track in Sutton (3S Go Karts) that would be perfect for a kart meet and has space for a BBQ or ordering Pizza etc. Also a Wild Wing close by as another option.

I ran a few events last year and Ami and Ryan came out to one of them. I or they, can post up some pics/vids later.

Note to all if I do arrange this. These karts are proper 4-stroke racing karts and not like the wimpy karts at GP kartways. These karts can hit speeds of 80kmph, more if you are tiny and light. They do not have bumpers and they can flip and hurt/kill you. There are no seat belts and no roll cages. We will not tolerate any idiocy or people playing bumper karts on the track. They are also expensive machines and easy to damage. If you are a danger to yourself or others, you will be removed from racing at the discretion of the owners and/or myself. No exceptions.

[n00bMeiSter]

Leave this with me. I need to wait until spring and then chat with the owners to see what their plans are this year and whether they will be running the rentals etc., but there is a 1km long outdoor track in Sutton (3S Go Karts) that would be perfect for a kart meet and has space for a BBQ or ordering Pizza etc. Also a Wild Wing close by as another option.

I ran a few events last year and Ami and Ryan came out to one of them. I or they, can post up some pics/vids later.

Note to all if I do arrange this. These karts are proper 4-stroke racing karts and not like the wimpy karts at GP kartways. These karts can hit speeds of 80kmph, more if you are tiny and light. They do not have bumpers and they can flip and hurt/kill you. There are no seat belts and no roll cages. We will not tolerate any idiocy or people playing bumper karts on the track. They are also expensive machines and easy to damage. If you are a danger to yourself or others, you will be removed from racing at the discretion of the owners and/or myself. No exceptions.

That sounds really cool, but Sutton is quite far. :(

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

That sounds really cool, but Sutton is quite far. :(

So is Mosport and most other racing tracks... :)

Sutton is 30 minutes from Newmarket. Some beautiful scenery too in the area since it is right on the shores of Simcoe. Think of it as a day trip for karting, food and a nice scenic drive.

[Iceman_F1]

So is Mosport and most other racing tracks... :)

Sutton is 30 minutes from Newmarket. Some beautiful scenery too in the area since it is right on the shores of Simcoe. Think of it as a day trip for karting, food and a nice scenic drive.

+1 to that statement. I've driven to Shannonville for a track day once which is even farther of a drive. For a chance like that, should be well worth it! Hopefully if this pans out, I can do it...

[n00bMeiSter]

So is Mosport and most other racing tracks... :)

Sutton is 30 minutes from Newmarket. Some beautiful scenery too in the area since it is right on the shores of Simcoe. Think of it as a day trip for karting, food and a nice scenic drive.

Oh, Sutton! Sorry, my bad, I was thinking of Sudbury LOL.

I retrack my earlier statements, Sutton is fine by me!

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

As promised, here are some of the vids taken from last year's kart event at the track in Sutton. This should give you all a better idea and feel of the track and these karts. We usually run an experienced group and then a less experienced/inexperienced group. This is done for fairness, safety and also allows a rest in between races for each group. It also allows for the resting group to take pictures and watch the racing while they trash talk each other. :)

Enjoy.

A nice little battle for 2nd place in the experienced group.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSoHMs2XaCI

Experienced group again and mostly of me. The kart I was in didn't have any brakes as the throttle stuck open in the previous race and the guy driving it blew the lines trying to stop it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzHVgYfDxXE

The less experienced group. That's Ami in the blue suit and black kart and that's Ryan in the red suit and blue kart. The guy in the white kart was in a full race modded 4-stroke kart with soft racing compounds so he had a huge advantage in power and grip over the other rental karts. You can see the speed difference down the end of the straight. Listen for the backfiring right at the end of the video as everyone lifts off the throttle at the end of the straight. LOL.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckLAh-4bfuY

Less experienced group again. Nice battle for positioning. Ryan is at the beginning of the video kicking ass and my friend Kathy passes Ami and another guy to battle for position.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXMGFNHWndo

[Iceman_F1]

That looks like a ton of fun!

[schmat66]

kinda like the goodwood league i was in

[Mr Fatty]

I'd go to Shannonville, but i'd bring the Civic, not the 3

[Hyperion]

Looks like so much fun.

[n00bMeiSter]

So is it only 4 people on the track at a time?

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

So is it only 4 people on the track at a time?

No. Usually we have 5-6 karts per group and we usually run a series of 3 races per group. These videos were all of the final race for each group. Typically, we keep one kart idle in the pits as a spare in case something happens. Unfortunately, there were a few accidents on the day and 1 kart ended up with a cracked chassis and was out of commission. Then another one was damaged beyond immediate repair. The kart I was driving had no brakes because the throttle stuck open and totalled the brake lines when the guy tried to stop it. We had to pull a race kart into the group just so we had enough karts to proceed. I think there were 5 in the experienced group and 5 in the other group by the end. My wife had a bad shoulder that she hurt from karting earlier in the season and missed the final race, so she took video instead. Otherwise, she would have been out there riding on my ass all day long and likely beating me. I prefer it the other way around frankly... :)

[shu5892001]

i would be interested in a ILR group rate too

+1

Interested in everything discussed in this thread lol

[Donutz]

Check the Car Control School thread; there are lists going for Car Control School and Track School, so go sign up!

[BMWWW]

Start small, aim high.

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Low cost (nil for spectators), PLETHORA of different cars, great people, endless supply of ride-alongs.
Autox school: no doubt less than $300

:headbang

[n00bMeiSter]

Low cost (nil for spectators), PLETHORA of different cars, great people, endless supply of ride-alongs.
Autox school: no doubt less than $300

:headbang

How would auto-x school be cheaper than car control school? Don't you need to learn a lot of the same things, but just how to use them on different types of terrain?

[Donutz]

Have a read: http://www.casc.on.ca/forums/ This might help you understand the differences in the sports. That in turn might answer the questions you have about the costs of various levels of performance driving schools.

There are a number of factors to consider that impact cost including where the event is held, what the cost of insurance is for the event coordinator, the tools and props used by the school, if the school is subsidised by sponsors, and the reputation of the school / instructors.

[n00bMeiSter]

Have a read: http://www.casc.on.ca/forums/ This might help you understand the differences in the sports. That in turn might answer the questions you have about the costs of various levels of performance driving schools.

There are a number of factors to consider that impact cost including where the event is held, what the cost of insurance is for the event coordinator, the tools and props used by the school, if the school is subsidised by sponsors, and the reputation of the school / instructors.

Ah, cool. Thanks Donutz! I will definitely have a read through those forums.

[Zoom Zoom Boy]

Thought I'd post up this video also. The previous vids from karting were non-shifting 4-stroke karts.

Here is my friend Juliana doing a few laps on the same track configuration in a 125CC shifter kart like the one pictured in my Avatar. Quite a difference in speed, especially down the straights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJqdSFr5Gxw