Cavallino Classic instruction? | FerrariChat
Buy

Cavallino Classic instruction?

Discussion in 'Tracking & Driver Education' started by open roads, Dec 21, 2010.

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.

  1. open roads

    open roads F1 Rookie

    Jan 28, 2007
    3,799
    Sarasota, Fl.
    Full Name:
    Stan
    #1 open roads, Dec 21, 2010
    I'm wondering if there is any formal effort at the Thurs and Fri GT sessions.

    I would be OK but I would like to have a guest drive and it's his first time. An instructor int he car would be my wish for him.

    I'll check w local dealerships if I don't hear from someone here.

    Do you feel the event is well run?
     
  2. gatorgreg

    gatorgreg Formula 3

    Dec 13, 2004
    1,915
    NAPLES
    #2 gatorgreg, Dec 23, 2010
    The track event isn't as organized as you think. There are different run groups but it gets very busy. They won't have a formal instructor or van rides. I don't think the dealer will help either. They will too busy with their long term clients who have multiple race cars.
    Pbir is a easy track to learn. Take a look at YouTube or vimeo or post in the Florida section for a ride.
    My advise is keep your distance at Cavallino from other cars. Many different skill levels with high horsepower vehicles on a small track. Keep your eyes open and take it slow. Watch out for the FXX drivers in GT!
    Have fun.
     
  3. ProCoach

    ProCoach F1 Veteran
    Owner

    Sep 15, 2004
    5,465
    VIR Raceway
    Full Name:
    Peter Krause
    #3 ProCoach, Dec 23, 2010
    Last edited: Dec 23, 2010
    Nope, not that I'm aware of.

    Your best bet is to hire a professional. My recommendation is FChat Sponsor, Guy Cosmo.

    You can find his site by clicking the "Sponsors" button on the top of this page or by clicking a banner on this site.

    Best of luck!
     
  4. Ney

    Ney F1 Veteran
    Silver Subscribed

    Apr 20, 2004
    7,351
    #4 Ney, Dec 23, 2010
  5. Ira Schwartz

    Ira Schwartz Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    May 20, 2003
    1,999
    Brooklandville, MD
    Full Name:
    Ira Schwartz
    #5 Ira Schwartz, Dec 23, 2010
    In all fairness, the crash you reference did not occur at Cavallino, but rather at FCA's Maranello Madness event a couple of months before. Cavallino is a great experience (this will be my 20th- I've attended every one), and I promise you'll enjoy it.
    Having said all that, there ARE a lot of folks at the Thursday/Friday track days who haven't been on-track since the preceding year's event and don't have a wealth of experience, and there ARE a lot of very fast cars in the GT group, including many Challenge cars and other race cars- speeds of 140-150 on the back straight are not uncommon. PBIR (nee Moroso) was shortened to 2 miles with the renovations, and both run groups are usually pretty crowded- not ideal for those without significant experience running in traffic. This is not the event for someone with no track experience. A novice should probably consider getting some instruction beforehand.
     
  6. open roads

    open roads F1 Rookie

    Jan 28, 2007
    3,799
    Sarasota, Fl.
    Full Name:
    Stan
    #6 open roads, Dec 23, 2010
    Thanks guys. I understand this isn't a good place for beginners and it isn't meant to be a training environment. From the sidelines in the past there has always appeared to be good communication on track in the GT class. Speaking of communications, I LOVE communicators when they work.

    I remember the thread linked above. I feel OK in a coupe (street car) but have seen enough to know it has it's dangers. I'm torn between wanting the safety of a better equipped car (perhaps a Challenge car) and the allure of vintage racing.

    Did someone say there were no riders? I'd heard in the past, no riders, then saw otherwise. I wouldn't put my newbie friend behind the wheel unless it was permitted with a qualified instructor. I won't offer my car with me in the passengers side in this case. But it would be nice to offer a ride if he wanted.

    Viewing the track online is a good idea since I've not been on it. Thanks for the line on the instructor. That's my next move.
     
  7. kevfla

    kevfla Formula 3

    Nov 20, 2003
    2,086
    Full Name:
    gone 4 good
    #7 kevfla, Dec 23, 2010
    +1 on Guy Cosmo instruction and at time other than at Cavallino.

    My observation of Cavallino and FCA track events is that the mishaps tend to happen during the lower-speed "Touring" sessions.

    Too much Red Mist from people driving over their heads. Not the time for a newbie to learn the car and the track.


    KevFla
     
  8. Ira Schwartz

    Ira Schwartz Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    May 20, 2003
    1,999
    Brooklandville, MD
    Full Name:
    Ira Schwartz
    #8 Ira Schwartz, Dec 23, 2010
    In the past passengers have been allowed in the GT run group at Cavallino, so have your friend bring a SNELL 2005 or newer helmet (or bum one from someone) and take him out for a ride.
     

Share This Page