I am thinking of signing up for this event and was wondering if anyone did already. Here's the link
http://www.cccbmwcca.org/BMW/High_Pe...ng_School.html
It would be nice to see some Mini's there....
This will be my 1st track event.... any tips as well as essentials that I need to bring with me?

 

I've done Buttonwillow in Tristan (not with the BMWCCA though), its fun. I'm thinking of trying the San Diego chapter's Buttonwillow day in September with Shawn. About the only thing you need to take with you is the MINI, a helmet and a willingness to learn.

I have some video of Buttonwillow in another thread.

Buttonwillow is a good place for your first event, there's nothing to run into.

 

Essentials to bring?

Torque wrench, tire pressure gauge, your wheel lock key, lots of H20 so you don't get dehydrated and sunscreen too, as a minimum.

Other nice to haves?
Extra pads, basic metric tool kit, extra brake fluid, extra oil, extra water (for the car), and loads of other things.

I always keep an old blanket in the trunk of the car as well... to lay down in case you'll be under the car... someone will most likely have a jack and stands you can borrow, worst case scenario.

Well, honestly for WORST case scenario you'll want to have your AAA card or whoever can provide you towing service... for those ultimate "worst case scenarios" on the track.



While Buttonwillow does have some great run-off areas, be sure to listen to the instructors when they advise you to go OFF if you think you're going to do so... especially if it's your first trip out on a track.

I did that, when at Buttonwillow, and had no issues 'cept for a bit of dirt on my ego when overcooking turn four.

However, while at Laguna few months later, I decided to try and save the car (also at turn four) and almost piled it up backwards... while driving over my limit and comfort zones.

The big gotcha at Buttonwillow will be IF you go off at the last turn before the front straight-away, stay off. People have a tendancy to try and correct/get back on-track there and end up going straight into the wall over by the pits.

Have a fun time and enjoy yourself!

 

So how was your first time? Hooked on track days now?

Matt