RSS Share 13/10/2005
Cadwell Park...last track day of 2005

Renaultsport fans are already looking forward to next year's programme of track days after this month's event at Cadwell Park saw an end to the 2005 line up.

Waveney Croson, who bought her Clio Renaultsport 182 Trophy three months ago, only managed to attend the last two meetings and says she cannot wait for the new season. "It's brilliantly exhilarating," she said. "I think my car is fabulous - I'm amazed at it. It's so nimble and it handles so well."

But there is more to the track days than just opening the throttle according to Ms Croson, who lives in Derbyshire. "Time at the circuit isn't just going round in circles," she said. "You learn the limits of your own ability and the car's ability more and more. It doesn't help you with road craft but with car craft, like braking ability, it's invaluable. It teaches you all the stuff you wouldn't find out on the road until you needed it."

Another Renault rookie, David Smitheram, travelled from Somerset to attend the day at Cadwell - an 11-hour round trip. "I'm really trying to get my fiancé to come along," said Mr Smitheram, who recently bought his Clio Renaultsport 172 but has been a regular on other track days. "It gives you such confidence and safety on the road. You've got a better understanding of the car."

Renault UK's Brand Manager for the Small Car range, Jeremy Townsend, said 2005 has been a real success with many events sold out. "We'll be doing more of the same in 2006," he said. "Customers love it. We've had loads of very positive feedback on the community section of our forum. People say they enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the instructors on the days have praised our customers' driving."

The track day schedule will re-start in April, once the days start to get longer again and the weather is more reliable. Once dates have been set an announcement will be issued in an e-Newsletter nearer the time.