So this past weekend I had the pleasure of attending a track event organized by Aston Martin Beverly Hills.

We arrived at Thermal at 9:00 and we were treated to a pretty good breakfast at the track. After which, we went into doing some autocross in a v12 vantage. It was my first time in the car and oh my... Compared to my puny v8 it's pure bliss. So smooth, so much torque... Even the SS transmission, which I usually despise in my car, has been greatly improved (though still not as good as a proper DCT).









(to be continued)

 

Next up was the skid pad. I went into a Rapide S and the idea was to spin it around until you lost traction (traction aids were off), then recover it.



You can see how dirty the car was from being abused in such manner.

Well, I spun it a bit hard and poor thing lost its power steering. I think I'm becoming an expert in breaking Aston Martins!



While they were working on it, I got a new Rapide S and went at it...

















After which we went into the main track and had some practice in a Vanquish. Sorry, no photos as we both went into the car together (the instructor was outside, guiding us from the track, over radio). I do have a cool photo of some of the lineup though





Later we had a buffet lunch and went back for more auto cross and more extensive track experience (this time we were given a Rapide S). No photos, but videos might be coming up if requested ;-)

We ended doing hot laps in the Ogara GT4 car.

Later on, we went to the Ritz Carlton where we had a room, drink, on to a some delicious seafood and steak at Mastro's (all part of the package).

It was a delightful experience and major stress buster. Can't recommend it enough.

 

What a great event, it looks so much fun and nice pics! That poor Rapide S was abused so much though LOL!

 

Looks like a lot of fun! Did the serpentine belt let go on the one you broke?

 

Wow what a wonderful event. How does one get on the attendee list I wonder?

 

Yes, it was a belt. Car was up and running shortly after.

Try emailing or calling Ogara and ask to be added on the list. This was a paid event and there apparently were some open spots, so I don't think it'd be hard to get in.

 

My local dealership puts on events at least every couple months or so. The staff there keep me informed.

 

Oh wow, I will need to find a time to talk to the local dealer too then. Would love to get more involved

 

Did you mention a video? :-)

 

Some hastily edited clips

 

It does not play!
Ron

 

Just made it embed-able. Try again and/or click on the link.

 

Official video of the event:

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=295925533935571

Looks like I didn't make the cut lol