Spring Pocono North DE Event

[MikeKling]

It’s hard to imagine a more dedicated group of people.  This year saw new leadership with our RTR track committee.  From my perspective, the event was very organized and efficiently executed.  Two members made a huge difference in my journey to become a better driver.

First, was our classroom instructor, Jim Zelinskie.  Although very new I have now attended about a dozen classes at both DE and AX.  Through all these I have seen many methods of explaining contact patches and traction circles.  These have included Power Point slides, people sitting in chairs pretending to be tires and glasses full of water.  I never really got it like I did this weekend.

After putting a chair in front of himself he leaned it backwards and pushed down. �?This is you accelerating�?, he said.  Leaning it forward, “This is you braking�?.  He then stood straight up and kicked the chair away.  “This is you coasting, on the brakes or on the gas will keep you safe�?, he ended.  That short demonstration reminded me of the old drug abuse commercial with the frying pan and the egg.  Remember?  This is your brain……..Short message, simple props, huge impression.

Most of all, I want to thank Brian Minkin, my Instructor.  I was having trouble with Turn One.  I just couldn’t seem to make the turn without scrubbing off to much speed.  Since the weather got us off to a slow start, Brian made up for lost time by inviting me to ride with him for two sessions.  After forty bone jarring minutes it started to become clear how this course worked.  Brian was satisfied with my progress enough to allow me to solo.  Even though the grandstands were empty, it felt like the eyes of the world were on me.  Brian’s confidence in my progress trumped my anxiety and I made it through my first solo session.  Got passed a few times and did some passing, not bad.

The weekend was rounded out by spending time with folks I met from last fall and sharing in their experiences and accomplishments.  I also met some great new members as well.  Here’s to a great season.  Lastly, nice T-shirt.