First track day of the year in the books. Overall, a TON of fun pushing this car so hard on track and learning the limits of the car. Also, I'm really glad I was able to hit the track (The Ridge) last year in completely stock form to see just how different the car feels/compares after these recent modifications. Both my girlfriend and I drove and split 7 20 minute sessions in the beginner group. Given my limited experience, we handled ourselves pretty well with the rest of the pack. Our main goals were consistency, finding the line, and generally just learn the car.
As far as how the car held up, I went into this track day fully aware that the brakes were going to be the most obvious limitation. My first two sessions, I'd almost say I was too paranoid of my brakes that I wasn't nearly aggressive enough in the brake zones and thus not driving the car nearly as hard as it could be driven. By the third session, I essentially threw caution to the wind and finally got the confidence to be hard on the brakes and started seeing a TON more progression with braking later and shortening lap times. Started having LOTS of fun and getting consistent times (and honestly surprised the brakes were holding up). I continued to make sure to use each cool down lap appropriately, parking the car with no brakes, popping the hood/brake+clutch fluid cover. We made it through 6 sessions pushing the brakes hard and it wasn't until about session 5 that we were getting some bad vibration when braking, but no noticeable fade. Session 7 for our group got merged with Group B so less time for the car to cool (20 min break vs. 40 min). Immediately into turn 1 going around 110+mph and slamming on the brakes I noticed substantial brake fade. I took the remainder of the lap at 50-60%. Luckily it was the last session of the day and most drivers had gone home already, so plenty of room between each car. At Turn 13, with no cars around and a corner with loads of run-off, I applied the brakes and the pedal went completely to the floor and went off course (in the safest manner I could). Despite how safe it was, I still will never forget that moment.
So with all of that, definitely going to be upgrading the brakes sooner than I had anticipated. I know I could probably just get away with upgrading the pads, but at this point, I feel better just going straight to the Akebonos as I've been eyeing them for a while anyways. I was really hoping these two pot calipers would at least last for 3-4 track days this summer but I just don't want to attend another track day if I have any sort of doubt that my brakes are not up to the task. Next, I'd love to get a go-pro and start collecting more data/info on my driving habits to continue improving and being consistent (telemetry would be awesome but need to do some more research). Lots of fun had and despite the confidence crushing brake fade in the last session, the day went extremely well all things considered. Let the rabbit hole continue as I contemplate selling a kidney for proper big brake kit.. or a 991.2 GT3.
