HPDE 2 ?? The Quest

[2eighTZ4me]

I've done 2 SCCA PDX events, one NASA event, a Panoz Racing track day, numerous Autocrosses (15+), and some karting events. I have my next NASA event this weekend.

 

I'm still "stuck" in HPDE 1, watching the other drivers in this class miss braking points, turn apexes, proper line etc. I am constantly stuck behind these folks that "freeze up" in a situation and do some really stupid things, not to mention neglecting point-by passing when someone is on their tail.

 

This is rather frustrating to me, as I've got a reasonable amount of seat time, know the flags, practice the proper line, am aware of other cars etc. That's why I'm faster than most folks in HPDE 1.

 

What does one need to do to move up to the next class? I can't count the PDX events in NASA, as SCCA doesn't really want to fill out a NASA logbook. Should I just sign up for HPDE 2 at the next event?

 

I've had one of the best instructors this past PDX event (John Williams) and videotaped everything and have watched it ad-nausem, taking in every detail. I'm not so sure some instructor from another state, who has maybe 1/100th the track time at Road Atlanta as John, will be of much help to me. My last instructor was half my age, and dinged me pretty hard on some things that John said I was doing well. I'm beginning to see that this is a rather subjective area.

 

So - what DOES it take to move on up? There's no place in the logbook that says "this driver is certified for HPDE 2" etc. etc.

[johnc]

Sign up for HPDE 2 and bring any event documentation from previous SCCA/Panoz/NASA events. Use John Williams as a reference. FYI... many open track organizers will not automatically bump up a participant unless asked.

[2eighTZ4me]

John - that was my gut feeling. My goal is to become an instructor and get my track days for free. I think they want you in there paying the $400+ per event, so they keep you in a class as long as they possibly can. Thanks for the tips!