Get Ready For Track Coaching

Introduction

While High-Performance Driver Education (HPDE) events are fantastic..…If you want to speed up your learning process and develop real track pace, get a coach!

HPDE’s allow you to turn a bunch of laps but what good are laps if you are not continually developing the skills to go faster? The answer is, you are continually solidifying poor habits.

HPDE is designed to show you the safest way to learn about the capabilities of your car and improve your driving skills, to a point.

With RSPEED providing the event and Eric Sutton as your professional coach, you'll be in great hands to unlock hidden pace.

Stop turning laps and burning up your consumables only to click off the same lap times as you always do. Book your 1:1 or small group coaching session with RSPEED now.

Tired of constant LAP TRAFFIC? Book a day and experience a truly focused on-track experience!

This guide will help you prepare, maximize your time on track, and ensure a smooth post-event experience.

Before the Event

1. Vehicle Prep:

   • Tech Inspection: Ensure your car meets the requirements of an HPDE—brakes, tires, fluids, suspension, and other critical components. Many events require a pre-event tech inspection, which can be done at a trusted shop.

   • Tire Pressure and Fluids: Check tire pressure and all fluid levels (brake, oil, coolant).

   • Remove Loose Items: Clear out everything from your car’s interior and trunk to prevent items from moving during track sessions.

   • Install Tow Hook(s): Clear out everything from your car’s interior and trunk to prevent items from moving during track sessions. Tow hooks prevent the safety truck from having to pull from your wheels or anything they can get their ties around to pull you from a sand pit, grass, and mud in case of an off-track. Install your tow hooks.

2. Gear and Paperwork:

   • Helmet: Bring an approved helmet. Rentals may be available at some venues. SA2015 or better is recommended or required depending on the event.

   • Clothing: Wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a breathable cotton shirt.

   • Documents: Bring your driver's license, registration, insurance, and any forms required by the event.

3. Mental Prep:

   • Study the Track: Research the track layout and turn-by-turn guides. If the track is available, using simulators like iRacing or watching onboard videos can help you familiarize yourself with the course. This maximizes your time on track!

   • Rest and Hydrate: Get a good night’s sleep for 2+ nights before the event and stay well-hydrated.

During the Event

1. Meet with Eric Sutton:

   • Initial Briefing: Listen for the special day-of instructions and ask questions about track etiquette and goals. Track direction, run groups, schedule, and passing rules will be discussed.

   • Clear Communication: Keep communication open and share any specific concerns or areas you want to improve.

2. In-Car Sessions:

   • Warm-Up Laps: Start slowly to get a feel for the track and warm up your tires. Comfortably increment the speed up in small chunks. Making huge jumps causes discomfort and sets you backward during the learning process.

   • Focus on Technique: Work on braking positions, optimal lines, and smooth throttle control using “string theory”. Trust Eric’s feedback and focus on smooth, precise inputs.

   • Cool Down Laps: After each session, do at least one or two cool-down laps to let the brakes and engine get some fresh air without pushing. During this time, it’s very important to check your mirrors frequently for faster cars. Do not change your line at any time when a vehicle is approaching, let them go around. Signal with hazards or hand out the window with a fist in the air when entering the pits.

3. Between Sessions:

   • Check Your Car: Inspect your tire’s sidewalls/tread, brakes, and fluid levels. For some cars, at least a half-tank of fuel is required to ensure you don’t run out of fuel on track. Adjust tire pressures as needed.

   • Rehydrate and Refuel Your Body: Even in the best weather conditions, track sessions require tremendous amounts of mental and physical fueling and hydrating. Drink water and electrolytes after every session. Restroom frequency can also be a measure of hydration.

   • Reflect with Eric: Discuss the session with Eric and focus on areas for improvement.

   • Review Video or Data: Discuss the session with Eric and focus on areas for improvement. Choose one area to work from this discussion during the next session.

After the Event

1. Debrief with Eric:

   • Summary of Progress: Review your overall progress, what you did well, and what you can work on in future events. Make notes!

   • Ask for Recommendations: Get advice on further training or exercises to continue developing your skills.

2. Car Maintenance:

   • Post-Track Check-Up: Inspect for wear on tires, brakes, and any new noises. Consider the amount of time on the track, the heat, the duration of the sessions to determine when you should be replacing vehicle fluids. A good rule of thumb for oil changes is half of your typical schedule once you do a day at the track. More oil changes are expensive but they will never be detrimental.

   • Refill and Refresh: Top off any fluids used during the event and clean your car.

3. Reflect and Plan:

   • Review Videos or Data: If you recorded your sessions or used a data-logging app, review them to see where you can improve.

   • Plan the Next Event: Stay in touch with RSPEED for future events and opportunities to work with Eric Sutton again.

With this preparation, you’ll be ready to make the most of your time on the track, build your skills, and have a thrilling experience. Happy driving!

- Eric Sutton, Your Next Coach

Book With RSPEED Now.

Eric Sutton bumps up to Unlimited Class for one race from Limited Class. 3rd Place with a 2:13.9 lap time around Circuit of the Americas at Super Lap Battle 2024.

Accelerate Your Race Driving Skills with Predictive Coaching

Have you ever wondered what sets apart a good race driver from a great one? It’s not just raw talent or a powerful vehicle; it’s the dedication to continuous improvement and mastering the art of race driving. At RSpeed, we understand that getting better takes time, but it doesn’t have to take a long time. With the right approach and tools, you can accelerate your learning curve and enhance your performance on the track.

Understanding Your Vehicle's Performance

One of the key aspects of becoming a proficient race driver is understanding the nuances of your vehicle’s performance. Every car has its strengths and weaknesses, and knowing how to optimize its capabilities can make a significant difference in your lap times. At RSpeed, we provide comprehensive insights into vehicle dynamics and performance metrics that enable you to fine-tune your driving strategy

Navigating Changing Driving Conditions

Race tracks are dynamic environments where conditions can change rapidly. From varying grip levels to unexpected weather changes, adeptly navigating these conditions is crucial for maintaining control and maximizing speed. With predictive coaching from RSpeed, you’ll learn how to anticipate these changes and adapt your driving technique accordingly, ensuring a smoother and more competitive performance.

Continuous Improvement through Expert Guidance

Improving your race driving skills is an ongoing journey, and at RSpeed, we’re committed to helping you evolve as a driver.  We personalize feedback and tailor the training programs to address your specific strengths and areas for improvement. Whether you’re honing your braking technique or perfecting your cornering skills, our coaching sessions empower you to refine your driving technique and achieve faster lap times.

Take Your Driving Skills to the Next Level

Ready to accelerate your race driving skills? Visit RSpeed today and discover how our predictive coaching and expert guidance can help you achieve your goals on the track. Don’t wait to become the driver you aspire to be start your journey to speed and precision with RSpeed. Explore our coaching program and accelerate your race driving skills with RSpeed.  Contact us today and embark on your journey towards mastering the art of race driving!