Project Kyoko- NA’s over Morning Coffee

I spent some time with another Miata owner yesterday morning over coffee. Steve Schaeffer has done some instruction at the Nurburgring, and some teaching at some of the local performance schools in the area.  We had planned to get together and get some coffee, but the shops were so full that we ended up taking a walk around the local neighborhood.

It was super refreshing to chat with an experienced driver about how to teach driving technique to other people. I have been interested in becoming an instructor myself, although I know I need alot more seat time first. Plus, it was super nice to just walk around the neighborhood and learn new things about housing… and other local Greenlake folklore.

Steve- Showing off his adjustable Konis

After a bit of a walk/chat, Steve took some time behind the wheel of Kyoko. I think he really liked it, and I enjoyed getting a chance to watch a good driver up close.

Nürburgring Driving Academy Formula Car on track — Video

Check this out.  Andre Gülden, the chief driving instructor of the Nürburgring Driving Academy takes one of the formula cars around the North Course on a demonstration run.

I’ve been interested more in the Nurburgring, since learning about the financial struggles that the track has been facing. The Nurburgring has been under turmoil, due to some poor management decisions in the last two years.

A campaign group called, “Save the Ring” has been pushing hard to raise money to save the classic road-car track, and to also have the management replaced.

This is a cause that I support, especially because I haven’t had a chance to drive the track yet! (Outside of Gran Turismo 4)

-Save the Ring on Facebook.

F1 2011 – F1 Drivers in Road Cars on track at the Nurburgring (Red Bull, Lotus & Renault)

I have no idea which is more fun to watch. Formula 1 drivers enjoying Renault road-cars over the ‘Ring, or their passengers who eyes go wide going into some corners!

Definately an exciting video.

As a side note, I have an interesting series of posts coming soon, so look forward to see more writing from me and not just videos.

Lunch Time Video: Aston Martin- Codename: “Kermit”

Just to keep with the green theme of St. Patrick’s Day, here is a video featuring the Aston Martin Vantage endurance race car for the Nurburgring 24hr.

Just to show that the Aston Martin team have  a sense of humor, they gave the car a name. “Kermit”  Here are some videos of “Kermit” in action.

Kermit in the Pits:

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24 HOURS IN 19500 FRAMES- 24 Hours of Nurburgring

One of our favorite event of the motorsport year is the 24 Hours of Nurburgring. With the drama surrounding the ‘Ring at the moment, it’s important to reflect on what makes that space so great.

Here is just one of the reasons why we must all go to the ‘Green Hell’ once before we die.

24 HOURS IN 19500 FRAMES from tim hahne on Vimeo.