The 2008 FRD racing school season started officially February 23 -24 in Zhuhai International Circuit. FRD and 11 students kicked off the two-day racing school under less than perfect weather condition. Although the temperature was comfortable but light drizzle and rain was coming down throughout the two day. But the FRD personnel and the student's enthusiasm is more than enough to overcome this condition and consider this wet condition actually adding extra excitement to the program.
Pekka Saarinen is the lead instructor for the course. The famous Asian Formula Renault 2006 and 2007 Champion added his exceptional field experience into an already proven FRD training program. He started out the day by explaining the theories of driving and vehicle dynamics to the students before they heading out to the circuit to have a taste for the Formula Renault 2.0 vehicles.
After lunch, the actual on track practice began. They started off with some straight-line exercises such as up shifting, accelerating and most importantly, braking.
Students found it hard to believe how short the gear lever travels and how hard they needed to step on the brake pedal to slow down the formula car because it does not have any power assist mechanism for the steering and the brakes. The wet condition made these exercises even more challenging for them but unfortunately, the day had to be cut short due to the weather.
Cornering and lapping the circuit was the main theme of the second day. Under mixing sky, the group managed to complete all the items in the program. At the end of the day, all students did timed lap and they were quite happy of what they had achieved. Overall, all student left the Zhuhai International Circuit with valuable experience and memories.
FRD organizes regular training courses throughout the year. If you are interest in joining one of them, contact Jessica Mak ( Jessica@frdsports.com ) to receive details.
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