[akasakaR33]

Ok guys, so here is an update.

I met today with Sunako-san and his staff to discuss the course curriculum for July 5. Gates open at the circuit at 0730 - we will all be there early, getting the cars ready (I will be posting track specific instructions on headlight taping, etc. later). Also, the local gas station doesn't open until 0900, so please fill up at the last PA/SA on the expressway before the exit

I will be sending instructions and directions to everyone later - can all participants please PM me their email addresses, if they haven't already. ALSO - VERY IMPORTANT - please email me your name, address, and what CAR you will be driving. I need this information to get us all registered in advance. Thanks.

Sunako will begin lecturing at 0900 exactly - to include safety, basic technique review, and then we will all go on the track to practice certain techniques - max accel and threshold braking and j-curve (ie trail braking into corners, etc.). His staff will be running the accel/brake section, and Sunako will be watching how well we take a hairpin turn. We will be circumventing the track at 5/10s at this time, getting a feel for the track, as well. (The quicker everyone passes this stage, the quicker we have lunch - and free lapping time!)

We then break for a review, course lecture, lunch - and then based on car, driver capacity (and desire by driver, if any) we will be split into two groups - a more advanced group, and a more beginner group. These two groups will run alternatively in 15 minute intervals (once around the track should be less than 45 seconds).

After about an hour, then Sunako will sit in the passenger seat of each car, to watch people drive. The bad news is that if Sunako is riding with you, watching how you drive, then only 2 cars can be on the track at the same time, according to the Track Rules. The good news is, this is when those of us who have expressed interest in participating in the 12 hour endurance race will be allowed to take the N1 Civic for a spin (ie me, Miguel, and Dai) - two cars max when Sunako is teaching. Everyone else can use this time to run to the nearest gas station (about 8 minutes away to refill) or review, etc.

After everyone has received in car instruction from Sunako, then we are back to back-to-back sessions, with the two groups. Sunako will drive your car during these sessions (no limit on the number of cars when he is driving per the rules) to show you the full potential of your car, as well as give analysis on how well your car is set up.

During the day, all cars will be equipped with transponder units, so you can see how your lap times improve. Also, track insurance is included in the cost.

Course closes at 4. Again, in order to maximize track time, let's make sure that everyone masters the two techniques as quickly as possible in the AM.

Also - Sunako is good friends with the editor in chief of GT-R magazine, and will try to get him to come out and do an article on us. I think we will have R32, R33, and R34 representation - if so, we will need an R35. Swiss Frank, I don't suppose you might volunteer? Sunako promises to take good care of your car...

Any questions, complaints or comments?

Aki

PS - since Yamanashi is near Mt. Fuji, there are lots of onsen in the area. Something for our Significant Others to be doing in the meanwhile?