Winter blahs? Come play at Team O'Neil Rally School

[jeffw]

Ivy and I are seriously thinking about this one... got the Blizzaks on and sharpened

You really should come...it's a blast and a huge learning opportunity!

[jeffw]

Here's Ken Block flying around the course we use:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQgmdHzq ... r_embedded

It's the only time I can get my S4 that sideways!

[breakaway500]

Interesting video.The shifter in the rwd(!)Escort is quite unique.I had to really watch a few times to see how it worked. It must also be set up sequential to work like that.I wonder if he declutches to shift?
That does look like fun... (in the summer.... )

[stevetracy]

Helmets required?

Reason I ask is my Infiniti RWD G Coupe is a blast with all Blizzaks but I have serious clearance issues with the sunroof whilst wearing a helmet in that car, to the point it just doesn't work for me. Full head contact with the roof while driving isn't fun. Leaning the seat back in an already coffin-like position makes visibility a serious challenge.

Ironically, with 4 other vehicles, all are 2WD except my truck, and the one that I would consider driving (because it meets the true Winter tire requirements) is in pieces in one of my garage bays.

I didn't see any mention on their website of helmet required for this class, but I sort of assume it would be, IDK...

[jeffw]

Helmets required?

Nope. It's all pretty low-speed, so helmets aren't required.

[Kai Noeske]

Ivy and I just signed up Those Blizzaks need a workout...!!!

[stevetracy]

Helmets required?

Nope. It's all pretty low-speed, so helmets aren't required.

Thanks, that opens up the possibility of partaking with my somewhat portly 3400 lb coupe...if I can't fix something else before then!

[JC_MS3]

Sounds interesting, but a couple of questions:

-The registration link doesn't list the early Feb session - is that closed?
-Is there more info available on what you actually cover? Is it more basic winter skills, or does it approach some rally techniques? The info on the registration page was helpful but I still was sure what to expect.

Thanks!

JC

The Audi Club will be running 3 2-day winter driving schools at Team O'Neil Rally School in 2010. Each school features classroom time, exercises and ends with 2 time-trial runs.

The winter schools are a great way to improve car control skills in a very safe environment.

Team O'Neil normally charges $395 for a 1-day school, but because the Audi Club is a non-profit organization with volunteer instructors, you can come enjoy the same facility for two days at half of Team O'Neil's normal fee.

The dates for the schools are January 23-24, February 6-7 and February 27-28. Registration is open now at: http://naaclub.motorsportreg.com/

COM instructors are welcome to come instruct (just get in touch with me so I can help you register if you haven't instructed with us before).

-jeff

[jeffw]

Sounds interesting, but a couple of questions:

-The registration link doesn't list the early Feb session - is that closed?
-Is there more info available on what you actually cover? Is it more basic winter skills, or does it approach some rally techniques? The info on the registration page was helpful but I still was sure what to expect.

The early February session got nixed due to lack of interest.

The school focuses more on basic driving skills, but can be whatever you want to make it. If you're comfortable managing oversteer/understeer you can push things a bit more. There's lots of opportunity to get sideways (and keep it sideways for a while). One of our instructors has done rallies, so he's a good resource.

If you saw the video I posted, we like to see people get that sideways (and most do!).

[StephanAlfa]

I am hoping to do this tomorrow: http://www.sykart.com/

[jeffw]

If only it was closer to Boston!

[breakaway500]

Those look like the same karts F1 indoors uses.If so,the steering sucks (I think it's right off a shopping cart.. ) and they are sloooooooooow on acceleration. Other than that,a blast!

[Spec-Al]

What a great deal - signed up for February!

Now to find out if my years of snow covered parking lot shenanigans actually taught me anything...

[JC_MS3]

Thanks for the update....probably will come late Feb. I'd rather drive my Mazdaspeed3 than my Audi - do some of the instructors have FWD experience/expertise?

[jeffw]

do some of the instructors have FWD experience/expertise?

yeah, we see plenty of FWD cars there. As long as the e-brake handle is accessible we can get you rotating on the skid pad