Nissan provides a continental breakfast, then drivers are given an overview of the 2013 GT-R - four of which are conveniently parked next to the tent. All Black Editions.
Drivers receive their track credentials at the main tent – a tarp-covered, open-sided, Nissan emblazoned, semi-trailer flush with flat panel monitors showing GT-R videos. There is a display of NISMO parts and two arcade-size PlayStation Gran Turismo 5 games. In fact, a PS3 GT Academy winner is on-site. Drivers are informed that anyone that could beat him would be offered a racing contract on-the-spot. Nobody beats him.
Track rules are reviewed, then it was off to play and practice. The play sessions are autocross, slalom and acceleration/breaking accuracy. The practice sessions occur on the most challenging parts of the racetrack: the dreaded corkscrew and the double apex Andretti Hairpin.
Just before a catered lunch of grilled salmon, pork medallions, rice and mixed vegetables, GDZLLA is positioned for a group photo. The afternoon features additional autocross time to crown the group champion, but the real challenge is found during the full track runs. Participants initially take several laps in their own car trailing an instructor, then repeat the process in a 2013 model.
As a final thrill, drivers become captive passengers while the instructors hoon and flail in the 2013 models. Unbelievable. Better than any roller coaster. These cars can take some abuse.