For some reason, I feel the need to post this link a few more times.

http://www.rmcbmwcca.org/DrivingSchool/CCC/ccc.htm
http://www.rmcbmwcca.org/DrivingSchool/CCC/ccc.htm
http://www.rmcbmwcca.org/DrivingSchool/CCC/ccc.htm

IMHO, this is the best introduction to "really driving". Real instructors, real classroom time.

Leave the x-box and fumbling around on autocross courses for later. In my region, the BMWCCA requires you take one of their car control clinics before you get on the track. Last weekend, my instructor made the comment that "a race track is a lousy place to learn car control".

Trying to figure it out yourself, or with well-intentioned but under-qualified friends may just have you picking up bad habits.

And, the car control clinic is only $40 if I remember correctly.

Okay, I'm done now.

 

Thanks again to every one that has given advice...very helpful!! I checked out BMWCCA and I can join the the Rocky Mountain Chapter for $40.00 and then do their driving class in October for anther $40.00, a good deal. Annette- loved your post and I too want to overcome my "fear factor"! Nice to know there are others out there that are willing to admit it!! I haven't taken my mini to the mountains yet but plan to do it very soon, I can't wait to see how she handles on those mountain roads...I know no doubt she'll do great. With my mini any issues I have with driving are now blamed on the driver...never the car!!!

 

Here's where you want to start and it's right there in Denver.

http://www.coloradoscca.org/

Click on Solo2 - Autocross and their Message Board to find out more about autocross. Autocrossing is, by far, the cheapest and safest way to begin exploring the limits of your MINI. Chances are they host an "autocross" or "Novice" school. Some regions even host driver schools just for lady's. Until you can get into a driving school, just ask one of the local autocrossers if you can ride with them and if they mind riding with you. Most SCCA regions are full of helpfull people that would LOVE to get you started on the right foot.

Ignore the driving tips mentioned above. Do not atempt them on the street until you have practiced at an autocross. I'm not saying that the tips are incorrect, it's just not a good idea to suggest anything if you don't have first hand knowledge of the person current skills. Applying the gas when you feel the car getting loose can help you gain traction, it can also put you off the side of one of Colarado's considerable mountains.

Here's another link to an article about what to expect at your first autocross.

http://www.etrscca.org/soloii/handbook/handbook.htm

Good luck! You'll be amazed at how much fun autocrossing a MINI is.