Drivers School (long)

["Blair Daggett" <bhdkixx@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello All.
Over the years, I've read countless submissions from the bubbas, and before
that the elders, about how the best improvement to your car's performance
will come from improving the person behind the wheel. I want to add my voice
to the crowd! I enrolled in the BMW CCC school this past weekend at the 2.56
km Atlantic Motorsport Park in Nova Scotia and it's the best return on
investment I've ever made on car improvements! The school was hosted by
George Garner, President of the Bluenose chapter. We had 38 vehicles, from
hot 911 Porches, (the local chapter of their club)a couple of e30 M3's, one
'98 M3, one M Roadster, a host of various 3's, one 740il, a nice 540 i and
numerous other brands. Chief classroom instructor was Paul Fagen.  My
instructor was Derek Lugar, owner of Vantage Motors, a VW dealer in nearby
Truro, NS. Hold the flames, he owns one of the e30 M3's!
I've been a race fan all my life. I certainly didn't consider myself a pro,
but really thought I knew how to drive. First time out on the track was a
very good lesson in humility! But by the end of the second day, the 5 (known
as the big comfy couch) was flying down the back stretch!  We started with
slalom, and threshold braking on the straights to keep speeds down.  We even
took a couple of runs on the go-cart track in mid-field (the big seven had
fun there!)  We took a run with the instructors driving their own cars and I
had a ride in the M3.  Gives you something to aim for!  In between sessions
was spent in the classroom learning about car dynamics, and doing Q+A's.
On the way home, I realized I'm a better, safer driver. I'm also hooked. I
look forward to next year, and invite all you down east for a great time.
Thanks to all the volunteers who helped.
Another thing I'd like to mention is that the emphasis of these schools (or
at least this one) is on safety.  After reading recent reports about rolled
M3's, etc. I was very nervous first out. We did have three offs, but all
were minor, with slight wheel rash on the new M3 the only damage.  It's
about keeping the shiny side up, and the BMW CCC has never had a two car
accident. Now, going fast does have it's risks.  But you are taught how to
keep it safe, and speeds only increase as your skill permits. I heartily
recommend a school to all.
Regards,
Blair Daggett
'90 535i, sharked (big comfy couch)
BMW CCC
BMW CCA
PS In Nova Scotia, the brew of choice is Moosehead. They were one of the
sponsors, and hosted a reception at their brewery after the event. Couldn't
go but picked up a case to take home. burrrp!

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