As part of this mission, I decided I needed to do a track day in it. I had previously run a couple of sessions in a friend’s Mx-5, but I had never done a full track day, nor in my own car.
I found out Chin Track Days had an HPD scheduled at Ozarks international Raceway, just two hours from me. The novice class was full when I looked at the schedule online, but with just two days before the weekend, I got the email that a spot had opened up and I decided to go. Absolutely could not be happier with that decision.
First off, the track is amazing. I had heard/read a lot about how it was dangerous, not a track for beginners, etc. But this opportunity was the one that presented itself to me, so I decided to try it. I also figured it was better to start off with a difficult track, which should make other tracks seem much easier afterward. And after all, I would have an instructor with me the entire time, so that added a nice layer of reassurance.
Very happy to report that the track is magnificent. The facilities are first rate and the track itself is challenging, interesting, and extremely rewarding when you can piece the corners together into a coherent lap. I will definitely be returning, probably later this year.
From my limited experience, Chin put on a very well structured and polished event. My instructors could not have given me a better experience.
The car itself ran absolutely flawlessly all weekend. I picked it up in March and have about 2500 miles on it currently. I drove it about 125 miles to the track, put a couple of hundred track miles on it, then drove it 125 miles home without incident.
It definitely exceeded my expectations on track. Power is enough to keep it fun and interesting, torque comes on low enough that you have flexibility with gear selection. Chassis is incredible. As a beginner, I couldn’t imagine a better car to be in. It cornered so flat, neutral, and predictably that it gave me immense confidence, despite being a novice on a very challenging track. Brakes were definitely up to the task, and I never experienced fade, despite running stock fluid. The closely spaced pedals made it quite easy and straightforward to heel-toe.
The Eagle F1 tires felt very grippy and when the grip faded, it was in a very transparent manner that made the car’s behavior predictable. Overall, very pleased with the Touring/F1 combo that I chose.
Lastly, the exhaust note and supercharger whine were a great soundtrack for the weekend.
Overall, I can’t recommend OIR and Chin highly enough, and I strongly encourage anyone who has the interest and opportunity to get their car on track. The performance is stellar and the car is an excellent teacher.
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