First Experience - Cobra University

[Samurai]

Date/Time: 7:00am on Oct 3rd
Place: Willow Springs Raceway (Streets of Willow Springs)

First thing, I got to thank Stephen of Cobra University and his crew for giving me a wonderful day of memories. I also have to thank House of Cobra for trailering my cobra to the track for me.

I also got to admit, I think I'm now addicted. I've already spent about 6 hours looking at helmets and gloves and other paranefilia for racing. I don't think my wife is taking to kindly to me surfing so much.

Here's a short list of what I learned:
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1) Paul, the instructor, can beat me around the course in a stock Ford Festiva, easily. (This was humbling and oh so enlightening)
2) I can't drive. (At least when I first got there. I'm still can't drive, but I now know what a apex is...it's the yellow cone. I hope the next driving course uses yellow cones, otherwise I'll have to learn another color... )
3) I've learned that I can make Paul, the instructor dizzy going around the skid pad. (Going around the skid pad was a real learning experience. Especially when you "LIFT" on the throttle. It's amazing how fast the rear can come around. What really surpized me was that my reflex did try and occasionally did safe the car from spinning. )
4) I've learned the line is an ellusive thing, easily shown, but rarely remembered. (If I didn't have cones or an instructor in the car, i don't think I would know what to do)
5) Do put sun tan lotion on. (So I'm alittle red today)
6) Racing tires must be made of glue. (I watched little vintage 'Z' cars carve what looked like a right angle turn all while accelerating)
7) I've learned a whole new level of respect for the cobra and the people who drive them
8) I have enough hp...for now. (Sounds kind of funny, but up until yesterday, I though I wanted a bigger motor. Not being able to apply all of the hp sure does change your priorities. More instruction, then more hp...)
9) I should have done this 7000 miles ago. (If you haven't taken a course, please do so. It's one of the best things you can do)
10) I'm addicted, and have joined the brotherhood...

Samurai