http://www.nasaproracing.com

 

Scary since the Buttonhook doesn't look like a dangerous place. This has some of the auto-x'rs I know thinking about wearing a karting neck brace.

 

Seems like a cheap and reasonable precaution to take. Time to start shopping for a neck brace.

It's a shame it takes a death to improve safety. I guess it's impossible to think of all the ways things can go wrong.

 

We were running the track backwards (counter-clock wise), which definitely makes the track more challenging. I did not see the crash, but I was told by someone that actually saw the crash, that he didn't ever slow down before he hit the embankment. Makes one wonder if his brakes went out, if he had some medical problem, or he just completely forgot where on the track he was. It shut the track down for some time.

 

I just ran Buttonwillow a week ago, and I don't remember any "Buttonhook." Which turn is that?

 

Turn 2. It's on the E loop near the kart track. 180* decreasing radius banked sweeper.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by payneinthe
Turn 2.

 

OK, I think it's called "Off-ramp" on the course map available at their web site. The tightest turn on the course. I can see where you could get into a lot of trouble there, if you're not paying attention.
Is there any more info on what happened?

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Voodoo_S2K

 

ButtonWillow doesnt number thier turns. They all have names instead.

ButtonHook/Off Ramp has a nice straight section leading into it. In an S2k you can easily see 90 to 100mph before you start braking. The typical line thru there breaks the turn into two sections. First there is a high speed entry with a small initial turn in and then a straight line braking zone that crests a small rise. During the braking zone you cant see where on the track you'll end up. The straight line braking ends with a tight left hand trail brake to line up for the exit.