Thanks everyone for showing up last night. Since the word "blast" has been used so many times to describe it, I'm trying to come up with another adjective..."Epic" maybe?!
When you get a chance, check out our website
Heart of America Z Car Club under "Racing Events...." I have posted information on driving events at Heartland Park and Mid America Motorplex (MAM).
Events such as Touring Club (HPT), Fast Fridays (MAM) and NASA (HPT and MAM) are well well and regulated. These events give you a lot of track time so you can learn the limits of your cars and yourself. These do not require roll cages, fire extinguishers, driving suits, etc. You do need a track worthy car which will be inspected for tires, brakes, no loose stuff in the car or engine compartment. You must have a track approved helmet and requirements vary by track. If you have a SA2010 Snell rated helmet you should be OK.
For novices, instructors will be provided and once he thinks you "get it" he'll let you go solo.
This is NOT racing but, rather, a "high performance driving experience" where you have restrictions on where you pass, etc. Aggressive driving such as tail gating, passing in no passing zones, etc. will get you black flagged.
I have done HPT in my 300ZX and my 350Z and have done MAM in my 350Z. HPT is a little more "technical" with some elevation changes, etc. MAM, on the other hand, is flat as a table top and has a lot of room to screw up without damaging your car.
MAM is right up I-29 in Iowa, south of Omaha. Depending on where in the metro area you live, it can be only a 2-3 hour drive.
Enjoy the Ride!