There’s something properly enjoyable about an evening track day when it’s simple and low pressure.
No trailers. No overnight stays. No massive plan. Just drive to the circuit after work, get out on track and enjoy the cars.
This one was an OpenTrack evening session at Brands Hatch on the 18th of May. Ryan was out in his Porsche Boxster, I had the Golf, and Tony came down to watch and have a catch up in the paddock. Tom and Jason were meant to come along as well but couldn’t get away from work in time — which is probably the most realistic track day issue going.
The weather was classic Brands Hatch. Dry conditions but freezing cold in the paddock with a proper wind blowing through the garages all evening. Once you were out on track though, it was spot on.
Before the event I’d fitted new rear pads to the Golf and the brakes felt brilliant all evening. Loads of confidence under braking and the car felt really solid throughout the sessions.
Naturally, after a few laps Ryan and I ended up swapping keys as well. His Boxster might not be the fastest thing in the world, but it’s a really good laugh to drive. It doesn’t understeer, the front end feels great and you can carry loads of speed through the corners. I even managed a few overtakes in it which definitely made it more entertaining.
At one point the session got stopped with a red flag while we were both driving each other’s cars, which led to a slightly awkward moment where we were both stood in the pit lane hoping the other person hadn’t launched our pride and joy into the gravel.
Thankfully, neither of us had.
That’s the beauty of these evening track days though. Drive to the circuit, spend a few hours with mates, enjoy the cars properly and then just drive home afterwards.
Simple, easy and exactly what Race Paddock is all about.