It was a hot day with almost no clouds. I was
running with many highly modified Datsun 510s with slick tires.
In fact, I think Terence and I were the only people who did not
have any engine modification. In the first two laps, cars were
still clustered in the front such that most people in front of me
just use the brakes very gently at the end of the 170km/h+ long
straightaway which turns into a 40km/h U-turn. After the 510s
passed a high-power Mini, I backed up a bit and charged up to a
very late apex turn into the straightaway that pushed me
side-by-side with the Mini. At the end of the straight, I braked
a bit earlier than normal and tucked behind the Mini, just to see
how the Mini uses his brakes. Another late apex to the straight
again, it was a even nicer move. This time I was able to stick my
nose out a bit on the straight. I decided to outbrake the Mini,
but I didn't account for the speed boosted by late apexing off
the last turn. I had to shift into "fifth" with
170km/h+ before the rev-limiter tell me to. The braking distance
was almost down by 1/2 now and this is the 1st time I found the
brakes were really faded. I was just able to lock up the rear a
bit by gradually "flooring" the brakes and managed to
U-turn from the inside line. You know how it would happen when
you make a tight turn with the rear wheels lock up -- sideways!
Fortunately, I didn't slide too much to let the Mini pass me
back.
Next: Another Track Day