For some background, when I first got this car January 2018, I knew I wanted to eventually do autocross, track days, overall become a better driver, etc. I did my first autocross in Nov. 2021, second in Feb. 2022, and third just before hitting the road for this trip. After doing that first autocross I made it a goal to do my first track day before I turned thirty. I can't say it was in the plans for that first track day to be in a different state, but no complaints here. I turn 30 next February, so happy to say that box is checked!

After explaining my trip to him - my dad decided he would plan a trip for himself as well, starting with him bringing his Sprinter RV up to join me for the Reunion. We would both camp trackside in the RV for the weekend before branching our separate ways. It was awesome to share this moment with him, and as a benefit he is even considering a miata of his own now!

This being my first time on a track, . I had a great instructor that was tasked with guiding myself and a fellow enthusiast in the grey turbo NB pictured. Our first two sessions we followed the instructor in his red NC, then the third and fourth session the instructor rode shotgun with me. Having him ride shotgun really helped him to point out where I have room for improvement; such as using the whole track, maintaining my own line even when there is slower traffic in front, and overall spatial awareness like trying to spot where all the marshall stations are. As a bonus, our last session had some rain coming down for a couple of laps before a black flag signaled us to come back in due to lightning in proximity. 

As the day day wrapped up, I couldn't have been happier with how my car felt and performed out there. I know I want to do more events like this in the future and progress my driving capabilities in the process.  The one negative I could point out of the day was, I was so distracted with all this that I didn't pay an ounce of attention to the rest of the event! I missed the parade laps, the car show, the car control clinic, and took no pictures of my own. Thankfully I stayed Sunday as well, however I was a little bummed to hear most of the festivities took place on Saturday only. Was a worthy trade off nonetheless.