At least the last three threads on trackdays - I specifically recall the hot hatch day and now the Silverstone thread - have been far from reassuring

Is there a trend developing, or is this just a blip?

I ask the question because the nobs of this world are on the increase

So are trackdays

Therefore I wouldn't be surprised to see some alignment of these two facts

 

It is worrying isn't it.

And there is only so much the track day organisers can do.

But I will be sticking with the ones I know:

BaT, MSV to name 2

 

It's all about finding one or more organisers you trust and sticking with them.

The Knockhill thing was shocking and I still can't quite get my head around how it's allowed to go on, never seen anything like it even 10 years ago when trackdays were either for rich people in Ferraris or scary free-for-alls organised by small car clubs that my brother used to attend before he started racing.

The Silverstone incident is probably more common but the likes of BookaTrack would not tolerate it. When I've hired cars recently, I've spent more time around the staff and seen how closely they watch the drivers, they're constantly chattering on the radios and will pull people up on it if they're getting out of hand or heading that way. Whilst I appreciate some things will get past them and incidents can and will still happen, it's quite reassuring to know they're doing their best to prevent it.

The biggest danger on a track day should be, and usually is, yourself.

I can't see the existing good organisers lowering their standards as their businesses are built on repeat custom and good reputations, but what does worry me is if one of these muppets kills someone on a badly run day and it has repercussions for the whole industry. I can see myself doing track days for many years to come, it's my second favourite pastime, and would be more than gutted

 

I'm sure this is true

Unfortunately, once something becomes popular, all sorts of unscrupulous types will jump on the bangwagon, and they may outnumber the professional organisers

I've seen Le Mans turn into chav city in the space of five years, and although it isn't policed like a trackday, I think the comparison is fair

Or the way town centres have deteriorated with the advent of binge drinking in recent times

 

it's really the same for holiday destinations.. you need to find something that is either financially out of reach.. or doesn't have the infrastructure necessary for binge drinking..

 

Like Gambia.

Although, I don't know if they have any tracks there

 

I missed the Silverstone thread?

I can add MSE to the list - really good

 

Silverstone meet 10/10 in M&E Jo.

MSE are good also

 

Just seen it.

I've come across nobbers on track days, but only the one at Bedford (not sure who organised that one). Muppets trying to overtake on corners, overtaking on the right, etc. etc., and the marshals doing nothing about it. Mostly scooby drivers iirc but not all....

Never had a bad episode with MSE (yet!!) although I've only done 2-3 of theirs

 

Not sure I've ever seen anything particularly bad on any trackday I've attended - although they've all been Motor Sport Events or Bookatrack.

I've had a few cars spin in front of me, but nothing close to impact!

Nurburgring was a bit different, although it is a bit of a free for all, you just have to be extra aware.......... whilst trying to learn the racing line through all 176 corners