Which driving school is better?

11-26-2001, 08:21 PM

For my 50th (Oh my God, I can't be 50 yet!!!??) Birthday, my wife and mother-in-law gave me one of those fantasy gifts-A Three Day Racing Class with either Skip Barber at Laguna Seca or Jim Russell at Sears Point. (I live in the bay area.) My question is, what are the pros and cons of each racing course and which is "better" and why. I've read everything on their websites. I am not going to be career racer, but I'll probably race some. Any advice?

Thanks, -CKrause

89911 · 11-26-2001, 08:34 PM

I'm going to Laguna Seca in February for a Skip Barber 3 day course. I have heard positive things about the course including your ability to obtain a license for racing if interested. The price was right for that time of the year. The only other school I priced was Panoz and their prices were the same if not more.

tmctguer · tmctguer's Garage

i've heard that the skip barber school is better than bob bonderant. but i've never heard a comparison to the jim russell school.

i'm reading the book published by skip barber (lots of which is taught in his school) and i am very impressed.

Natchamp · 11-26-2001, 09:23 PM

I can't speak for the schools themselves but I've driven both tracks (Laguna b4 it was changed). Both of them are GREAT tracks you will thouroughly enjoy. Imho, Sears is the best drivers track though hands down. It has much more unique and challenging corners. If you want the ultimate school go to Winfield in France at the Paul Ricard track, that was uterly awesome.

tobluforu · tobluforu's Garage

Sears is considered one the most challenging road courses in the U.S. I would go there. Both would be a blast though

howie944 · 11-26-2001, 11:10 PM

Before going to "Sears" you might want to check the status of the upgrade they are doing. Major stuff going on at the track such as moving the drag strip away from the start/finish line of the road course. Tunnel building to remove the bridges that used to cross the track for spectators. don't know what effect it will have ont he school but the whole course may not be available. It is one of the most challenging and is going to get even better. For those of you interested: both the American LeMans Series race and the Wine Country Classic will be held in May of 2002. the Classic used to be held in May and the LeMans race in July.