[phantomjock]

Howdy - Kross -

Wish I were going with you! Did my 2 day at Sebring just last September. It will probably be on one of the "short courses," awesome none the less.

1. Be sure and Call Ahead to the Chateau - if you are considering it. They do offer (but you need to ask for) Military Discount, and a Skip Barber Discount. So what ever fits - be sure and ask. BTW - You can get a room overlooking the "pool" that also overlooks the track (Convenient for guest/spouse/girlfriend/etc, if they want to take a layday - and still see the action.) The restaurant is so convenient the school had our lunches there too [part of the school fees (guests pay their own way)]. Some awesome restaurants downtown too. The Tireman will have the details there. (Indian was very nice, we liked it, and will return next trip.) Seems like the school staff stays at the Inn on the Lake. A bit of a drive in the morning - but an easy "commute." Good references for their restaurant too.

2. The local Race Gear shop opens early for Skippy participants - I didn't make it over - but if you could fit it in - maybe try before buy is a good a possibility. And, it is nearly next door.

3. VIDEO - DO Video. GoPro and the lipstick cameras are popular - or the Swan which is a Go-Pro knockoff. Its usually about a hundred bucks (with waterproof case, etc) so much cheaper than a GoPro. Quality is good = 1080p, but a little funky working the remote, worth a practice or 2 before you loose a video you wanted. I suppose you could use the mic to get your audio on the video - could be "enlightening," and if not, at least "entertaining!" RAM mounts do the job for securing to the roll bar. I got the one that uses hose clamps - other threads discuss here pretty well. Did I say DO Video?

4. The Skippy School is very accommodating to you having spouse/girlfriend/partner/parent there too. They'll need to sign waivers, etc - but if they shoot "film" - a real plus for you. [OOPS - dated myself there - video...] Track access is good from the Chateau - right at the hairpin. There are real good shots to be had from the backside of the "stands." Takes a bit of sleuthing around - and a long telephoto - but good overhead shots for the Autocross exercises on Day 1.

5. Other Gear Ideas - Balaclava, definitely YES. The helmets are pretty much, "well used." Suits; Many of the suits in September were pretty trashed too. Kieth was going to try and get some sent down as they were in much better shape at Road Atlanta. Many had zips that were shot, or torn - but those were my size - XL. You should start checking eBay and RacingJunk for suit bargains - before the season heats up. I scored a great deal just last month. You probably have already seen some helmets on sale. Again if you can try before buy that is a plus. That is another great thing the school gives you - you'll automatically know your helmet and suit size (Bell/Pyrotect).


Have a great time. If you don't crack you face from smiling - at least wet your pants from excitement!
Wish I was going - but I'm bound for Southeast Asia for winter.

Where you Look - Is Where you Go - so as they say; "Keep your Eyes Up!"

Cheers - Jim