With the new Mine’s ECU and oil cooler, the car was in absolute tip top condition all day and didn’t miss a single heartbeat. 3rd trackday on same standard Brembo and same Continental tyres kept bank manager happy also. Despite beautiful hot weather, the tyres performed very well, even after a few laps of oversteering abuse round certain hairpins. Others were not as economical, with brand new sets of tyres going in a matter of hours. But then full on powerslides were never recommended as part of a healthier lifestyle. Full fat ain’t half tasty though.

For such a large track (Gran Turismo circuit is 3.14 miles long) it is very easy to become lost in your own little world, and unless you’re very fast or very slow, then you’re unlikely to pass another driver unless it’s in a cool down lap. Also, cone etiquette is appalling, with cones splattered everywhere, it often became a slalom course. I called the ‘cone hotline’ a few times.

This time, we placed a total of 3 cameras in the car. One externally on the front grill (which gave an awesome impression of speed) and two in the car, one facing either direction. The video’s need editing and will be available to download soon.

Meanwhile, I urge anyone who hasn’t done a trackday to give this one a go, Bedford is the best amateur circuit in the UK, with plenty of run off and great all round visibility. In the dry, it’s a total safe zone. In the wet, it’s an absolute hoot.

Bedford Autodrome is one of the largest motoring entertainment sites in the UK. It has a very large track that is split into 4 mini circuits. Our track for the day was one of the nicest, easiest tracks I have been on. A 2 km straight provided high speed thrills and also ensured many people went home with good ol’ Mr. Spongy Brake.

Fortunately, because of its set up, it is also an excellent track for amateurs. Its vast, wide run off area’s are ideal safety nets for those that require a margin for error. Of course, this also meant that there were amateurs on the track. This isn’t a bad thing altogether, but does mean that one needs to maintain a level of respect for those that haven’t had as much experience as you. This was demonstrated by a number of incidents that could well have resulted in a few shed tears.

A fantastic SIDC event, the day also included an evening BBQ, although expensive, tasted very good. Company was great again and I look forward to the next Bedford track day.

Many thanks to Josh for the fantastic quality photo’s (I have spent a fortune with that guy).

As a footnote, I took wifey out for the first time ever. After the first corner (literally) she shrieked and wanted to come back in. After two laps of absolute torture, I decided to bring the poor lass in. The colour in her face has just returned.