Sim Training for the Real-World Racer

Sim training for the real-world racer headlines this week’s Racecraft & Race Cars Roundup with advice on how you can use the sim to improve on track. I also have advice on time trials, what it’s like to drive the Ferrari 296 Challenge and more!

Racecraft Tips & Techniques

Sim Training for the Real-World Racer

In Part 1 of Ross Bentley of Speed Secrets look at sim training for real-world track drivers, he looks at the difference between what he calls “sim natives” and “sim immigrants.” Part 2 features some (but not all) basic training methods and drills Ross uses (all, and more, are available in detail in Sim Racer Academy). I should point out that I’m writing this with real-world drivers who use simulators (or should be using them) in mind. This is not aimed directly at pure sim racers (although most of it will still apply).

You can read Part 1 here and Part 2 here.

Speaking of Ross and Speed Secrets, he will be holding a two-day Masterclass on the art and science of driving in the rain on February 3rd & 6th, 2025. Registration closes on February 1st. You can get more information and register here.

Grassroots Motorsports explains how a proper game plan can help deliver time trial success. “As the discipline of time trials becomes more popular, the techniques required for success become more and more sophisticated–and also more specific to the format. So let’s discuss a few of the nuances that can lead to success a little quicker than simply mashing your foot to the firewall like you’re trying to make wine at the ren faire.” Read the full article here (subscription required).

Grassroots Motorsports also has great advice on how to go endurance racing in the United States with tips on “finding the perfect teammates, series and car.” You can read the article here (subscription required).

Samir Abid at Your Data Driven explains why fast drivers care about handling balance. “As a racer – or track driver – all you want is a fast, well balanced car, with good grip and consistency. But what if your car’s setup [link] is not well balanced, or worse, feels like it is try to kill you!?” Read the full article here.

Terence Dove explains how “should” is the life and death of the racing driver. “We all do this. We take our lap time and calculate how we SHOULD go faster next session.” Read more here.

Race Car & Series Developments

Ferrari 296 Challenge

The Drive takes a Ferrari 296 Challenge race car to the track at looks at the Ferrari Challenge series in detail as an avenue for some to serious motorsport. For additional context, I covered the Ferrari Challenge back in 2021.

While some Challenge drivers have gone on to compete in GT3 and IMSA racing, others are content staying in the one-make series, which can cost in excess of $1 million for full race support, car transport, and enough spare parts to cover typical rubbing-is-racing incidents. Marston says the Ferrari experience involves more than just sexy race hardware, with perks including dinners with acclaimed chef Massimo Bottura and hangs with Charles Leclerc. Having won the 2024 Coppa Shell North American Challenge series, Marston says he’s still aiming to complete his goal of racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. “I need to start getting into that world,” he says, “but I come back to Challenge because even though it’s a competitive atmosphere, there’s a great sense of camaraderie. It seems like a funny thing to say, but it really is kind of like a family.”

You can read the complete article here.

2025 Series News

FM4 Morocco Championship
Twoth Autosport Ligier JS P315
Sim Training for the Real-World Racer

Track Developments

Sim Training for the Real-World Racer

Investment continues in the future of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course both on- and off-track. The owner and operator of the facility, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, announced today that all phases of a series of improvements have now been completed. Highlights include the repaving of a major portion of the interior roads, an extensive update around Turn 4 including modifications to the runoff area, and the replacement of safety barriers and fencing in three areas of the track. More details can be found here.

Sim Training for the Real-World Racer

Morgan Park Raceway is currently undergoing several upgrades ahead of the 2025 racing season. Works at the Warwick, Queensland, venue include resurfacing of its ‘B track’ – one of several layouts able to be used at the versatile facility.

Other improvements include the laying of fibre optic cables, reseeding, kerb painting, new drainage (through tuns 3-6-7-10), new track lighting and power to marshalling points. More details can be found at SpeedCafe here.

Mark Boudreau
Author: Mark Boudreau

Mark is the publisher of Motorsport Prospects. As a former lawyer, he applies his legal background and research skills to assist race drivers by showcasing the resources they need to make their motorsport careers happen.

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