Driving School FAQ
Q. Why is CGI preferred to other schools?
A. CGI MOTORSPORTS has a philosophy, ……… "SERVE TRACK TIME FAMILY STYLE - ALL YOU CAN DRIVE"……. We believe that participants in schools with limited track time tend to want to maximize their usage of the available time. This can lead to drivers on the track who may be tired, not concentrating, or not feeling well. CGI schools offer so much track time that you can go out when you're at your best. If you get tired or lose concentration, you can come in and rest knowing that there is plenty of additional time.
Q. Will the things I learn in the school help in my daily driving?
A. They certainly will! The things you learn about the behavior of your car and about its limits will provide extra knowledge to utilize in an emergency. What you learn about your environment in the car and about using your senses will help make your driving more comfortable, less stressful and minimize the near misses that occur to everyone.
Q. What are the requirements and what should I wear?
A. You must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver's license and be covered by liability insurance. Clothing should be comfortable and loose fitting. Natural materials such as wool or cotton are preferable. All participants and their guests will be required to sign waivers for the track and for the organizers. A parent or legal guardian must sign for minors under 18.
Q. Do I need a safety helmet?
A. Yes a Snell 95 or 2000 approved helmet is required.
Q. Will I hurt my car mechanically?
A. Your car will be operated at higher speeds and with greater engine revs than you would use consistently in normal driving. This does not significantly affect its life. You will be using the brakes and tires more and their life will be shorter than normal. Newer (past 20 years) vehicles, are very well designed and are very capable of being operated in the school environment without adverse effects.
Q. Must I own a "sports car" to participate?
A. No. Any safe and well maintained vehicle is acceptable (SUV's, vans and trucks are not permitted). Actually, a non-sports type car on regular street tires could provide a better learning environment.
Q. Can I damage my car such as in a crash for example?
A. This possibility always exists, even when driving on the street. There is always a danger of crashing under high-speed conditions however, Gingerman Raceway is a very safe track with good runoff areas and few solid items to hit. The primary ingredient, to having a safe, fun day is you. A proper attitude, being open to learning and to the suggestions of instructors, and being prudent will bring your car home intact. Many students have driven in many schools without incident.
Q. What kind of schedule can I expect?
A. 9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Registration 9:30 a.m. -10:00 a.m. Mandatory Drivers Meeting 10:00 a.m. - 10:20 a.m. Mandatory Novice Classroom session. Run groups start on the hour beginning with A Group and rotate every 20 minutes with B Group and C Group. There is a one-hour break for lunch at 12:00 p.m. All times listed are Eastern Time.
Q. What happens if it rains?
A. We use a rainy day as a learning experience. You drive in the rain in the real world and since adhesion is less with a wet track, you have the opportunity to learn and/or practice car control skills and test the "rain line". A school can be delayed if it's determined that the weather has created dangerous conditions.
Q. How fast can I drive?
A. That all depends upon the limits of you and your car. Novices will be closely monitored until such time that the instructor feels the student can recognize his or her limits and is willing to drive within those limits.
Q. What happens in the event of an accident?
A. Even though accidents are very rare in a school environment, they could happen if you ignore an instructor's input or overdrive your car. If you have an accident, you will be responsible for any damages not covered by the track's insurance.
Q. Can I bring a convertible?
A. Convertibles are allowed providing they have a roll bar designated by the factory as a roll bar. An after-market bar must be approved.
Q. Can I bring a guest?
A. Guests are always welcome but, they must sign all necessary waivers and conduct themselves in such a manner that promotes absolute safety.
Q. Can I give rides?
A. Only advanced students are allowed to have passengers. They are required to wear an approved helmet. Guests can obtain rides with qualified instructors when seats are available.
Q. Can I get an idea of what the track is like?
A. Yes, just click onto the Gingerman Raceway site at our links page. There you can review track maps and other information.
Q. How about lodging?
A. CGI MOTORSPORTS has arranged for special rates with Comfort Suites , South Haven, Mi. Just let them know you are a CGI Student.
Q. Can I get assistance regarding items I might need to purchase?
A. Yes, call or email us and we'll refer you to reputable sources.
Q. How much does all this fun cost?
A. All this for only $225.00.
Q. Ok, I really want to do this how do I apply?
A. Just click onto the School Application link. We can accept checks up to 2 weeks prior to the event. It's recommended that you apply early as the field is limited. This is how we can ……
"SERVE TRACK TIME FAMILY STYLE ... ALL YOU CAN DRIVE"
