Driving cars the way they were meant to be driven
By Clementina Verge
SPONSORED CONTENT
Imagine escaping gridlock and driving without speed limits while maintaining control of more than 3,000 pounds of metal and hundreds of horsepower.
For 64 years, Lime Rock Park has been a world class racing facility attracting greats such as the legendary Paul Newman, NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Jeff Gordon, and owner Skip Barber, founder of the distinguished racing school bearing his name.
For car enthusiasts, the best way to enjoy this historic Salisbury venue is by being a Lime Rock Drivers Club member. Privileges include private track driving time, car control clinics, exciting spectator events and hospitality, guest services, terrific camaraderie, reciprocals at Thompson and Palmer race tracks, and perhaps the most cherished perk of all—outstanding coaching.
“It is the single most valuable thing that we offer our members,” conveys Simon Kirkby, internationally-renowned coach, and director of Lime Rock Drivers Club. “What we give to all is a methodology they can take to any race track in the world.”
Whether novices interested in defying personal limits or experienced members desiring a racing license, the coaching is customized because the best drivers are made through practice and repetition, Kirkby says.
The thrill of excessive speed is one thing. Knowing how to safely maximize performance by mastering proper techniques is another. The 1.5-mile course looks simple, but elevation changes and seven adrenaline-inducing turns are no easy feat, especially when milliseconds count. Ultimately, each lap proves an intellectual exercise rooted in passion and surprisingly rewarded by tranquility.
“No matter if they are golfers or have other interests, driving is the only thing members do where their minds never wander to clients or business or other responsibilities,” notes Kirkby. “It requires complete focus, which is great for relaxation.”
Michael Gershon, a four-year member and winner of numerous events, agrees.
“It’s my favorite place on the face of the earth,” he declares, recounting his first Lime Rock race—in pouring rain—when the adrenaline rush and third place finish proved greater than fear. The idyllic setting and supportive club atmosphere left no doubt that he wanted to become a member. “It is the most beautiful track I’ve ever been on and what I learned here has made me comfortable at every other track I’ve been to.”
The appeal has been further enhanced by a newly-paved, almost 1-mile proving grounds track used for car control, fully-paved paddocks, new restrooms, gardens, ponds, landscaping, and spectator areas canopied by beautiful shade trees.
Ultimately, Lime Rock allows drivers not only to challenge personal capabilities, but to experience a vehicle’s maximum potential, whether it is a Ferrari 488 Pista or a humble racing Spec-Miata. Featuring outstanding handling and technologies, such cars are capable of breathtaking maneuvers and fulfill their aptitude only on track, notes club administrator Jeanette Veitenheimer. Newman once declared, “The best gift you can give yourself is the gift of possibility.” Lime Rock’s lap record currently stands at 43.112 seconds. Schedule a track day and experience the possibilities once the green flag waves you through.
