The track fees are just a drop in the bucket compared to the rest of the fees associated with putting your car on the track for a regular, run-of-the-mill DE. Consider the following costs:
- Maintenance on the car (and tow vehicle/trailer)
- Oil and gas
- Tires
- Brakes
- Food and lodging
- Tolls and other travel expenses.
Granted, as an instructor, the track fees are less, but I suspect that a typical instructor (who trailers a more-expensive-to-maintain sports car) will wind up paying more for a DE event than a student.
I have gotten involved with some other clubs, and find the single day events to be a little less of a burden on my wallet - I can get up super early, drive to the event on the day of the event, and drive back home at the end of the day. (I can do this with tracks that are less than 3 hours from home, like Pocono, Monticello, and Lime Rock Park).
As an instructor, I appreciate the discount -- some clubs don't charge the instructors any fee. But the day can be a bit hectic as well - I have often had 2 students assigned to me, and there is a commitment to teach. If I have a mechanical issue with my car, that needs to wait if my student is on the grid and ready to go. Still, I find instructing a blast -- you should try it! Oh - and the trick is to be the one in control of the car, even though the steering wheel, brakes and throttle are not infront of you!
-Z-man.