rate my run videos from autocross with BMWCCA.

[kimbo305]

I'm with BMWCCA, since they're one of the most active automotive clubs in the area. Today was my first autocross ever. These four videos are from my afternoon run.
In the morning, I had 5 runs all with an instructor. I started out looking ahead well, but then resorted to closing to the upcoming gate as I picked up speed. I went from 40s to under 37s. I think my car would be capable of 34-35s.

The major problem I faced was bad street tires. They gave up so early. It didn't help that I didn't set up my turns well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fogM57ZlX5Q
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19lgsVJxnSY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVuJOpwNTIU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nz-17fmgkFU

Run 2 was my best. Run 4 was my worst, with pushing off line and missing a slalom. Check out the Camaro spinning out at the start of run 4.

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[WeeAsp]

If that was your first AX, you did VERY well.

Smooth and consistent. You didn't over drive the car - which is a mistake that a lot of novices make. So, you should feel really good about it!



The one tip that I would give you, and this comes with seat time, is not to coast as much. The brakes are much better than you think. The longer you can stay in the throttle, the faster you are going to be.

However, that applys ONLY if you can be smooth with it.

Great start for you!

[slo1]

You missed all the cones?

[kimbo305]

Originally Posted by WeeAsp

The one tip that I would give you, and this comes with seat time, is not to coast as much. The brakes are much better than you think. The longer you can stay in the throttle, the faster you are going to be.

Yup. My instructor brought this up as soon as he thought I could make use of it. The Focus is an amazing car if you want to cruise/stroll through the course. It just feels so at home. But that definitely doesn't make for the best times. You have to get it uneasy with getting on the throttle or right on the brakes to shave time. I rode with a dude in an Si with Nitto almost-slick street tires, and he definitely had much better braking force. That and he didn't have ABS to avoid.

One thing I was worried about on the long straight was hitting the top of 2nd gear. I was too concentrated on the road to even see the tach, so I think I got close, but I'm not sure. My fuel pump is pretty much maxed at 7k, so I don't want to get lean by staying there too long.

Did I mention how awesome and fun it was?!