Last weekend, Auto123.com writers Crash Corrigan, Lesley Wimbush and Justin Pritchard visited Mosport Park in Clarington Ontario to attend a Track Training course presented by Ian Law Racing. Each writer was set up in a 2007 model vehicle, and they've reported back on their experiences during this unique and exciting day.
Lesley Wimbush:
It doesn't get much better than this.
The clammy chill of early morning has given way to beautiful sunshine and blue skies. Finally, I can put down the self-retracting roof on my borrowed Mazda MX-5 before heading back onto the track for some quick laps.
I smile and wave at Justin Pritchard and Crash Corrigan, who've just finished their lapping session and are watching the action from pit row.
We're here for an Ian Law Track School and combined lapping day. The rolling hills and lush green grass at Mosport combined with the warm sun are inducing an infectious cheer and camaraderie amongst the participants.
The MX-5 is simply wonderful. Nimble, agile with astonishingly intuitive steering, it's a joyous extension of the driver. I found myself laughing out loud and cheering it on - convinced that the car was enjoying itself as much as I was. Catching up to a first generation MX-5 and a previous generation Miata, a spirited game of tag ensued. Like playful puppies we chased each other down hills and around tight curves - the racing line helpfully defined by cones.
There's a diverse group gathered here. The Track School is a mix of novice and experienced drivers wishing to upgrade or refresh their skills... and new owners of powerful or exotic sports cars learning how to drive them.
So aside from the ubiquitous Subaru Imprezas, there's a brace of Audis, a snarling new C6 Corvette, an open-wheel Caterham, a pair of orange Lotus Elise (Elises... Elisieum?) assorted Porsches and even a Pontiac Aztec.
Chuckling, I watch Crash in a Mazdaspeed3, follow Justin in a Chrysler 300C SRT-8 - a bright red terrier nipping at the heels of a mighty bull.
Although quite demanding and requiring intense concentration -- a track school is a valuable experience, not only for drivers interested in acquiring competition skills, but for those who simply want to discover their limits in a controlled environment and become safer drivers.
Challenging as it may be - driving a road course is also highly addictive!
Lesley Wimbush:
It doesn't get much better than this.
The clammy chill of early morning has given way to beautiful sunshine and blue skies. Finally, I can put down the self-retracting roof on my borrowed Mazda MX-5 before heading back onto the track for some quick laps.
I smile and wave at Justin Pritchard and Crash Corrigan, who've just finished their lapping session and are watching the action from pit row.
We're here for an Ian Law Track School and combined lapping day. The rolling hills and lush green grass at Mosport combined with the warm sun are inducing an infectious cheer and camaraderie amongst the participants.
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The MX-5 is simply wonderful. Nimble, agile with astonishingly intuitive steering, it's a joyous extension of the driver. I found myself laughing out loud and cheering it on - convinced that the car was enjoying itself as much as I was. Catching up to a first generation MX-5 and a previous generation Miata, a spirited game of tag ensued. Like playful puppies we chased each other down hills and around tight curves - the racing line helpfully defined by cones.
There's a diverse group gathered here. The Track School is a mix of novice and experienced drivers wishing to upgrade or refresh their skills... and new owners of powerful or exotic sports cars learning how to drive them.
So aside from the ubiquitous Subaru Imprezas, there's a brace of Audis, a snarling new C6 Corvette, an open-wheel Caterham, a pair of orange Lotus Elise (Elises... Elisieum?) assorted Porsches and even a Pontiac Aztec.
Chuckling, I watch Crash in a Mazdaspeed3, follow Justin in a Chrysler 300C SRT-8 - a bright red terrier nipping at the heels of a mighty bull.
Although quite demanding and requiring intense concentration -- a track school is a valuable experience, not only for drivers interested in acquiring competition skills, but for those who simply want to discover their limits in a controlled environment and become safer drivers.
Challenging as it may be - driving a road course is also highly addictive!