ESSES OF SUMMER
Our first stop on our tour of the United States was one of my favorite race tracks in the world: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Located roughly one hour from the city of Atlanta, the 2.540 mi (4.088 km) circuit would serve as the weekend playground for JZILLA Track Days - The Esses of Summer. JZILLA played host to a sold-out weekend, with over 100 motorsport enthusiasts ranging from tuned road cars to full spec GT3 race cars. Pit lane was filled with a little bit of everything and an abundance of good vibes. Although some of our initial plans fell through, Aaron at Balls Out Track Day Hire came through with some last-minute southern kindness, allowing this graphic designer to hit the track for the first time in his life with one of their track day Miatas.
Let's pretend this is a race and I'm winning. I am.
JZILLA's dedicated and welcoming crew created a family-like atmosphere, placing a strong emphasis on safety and fun. With my new ride secured and a rental helmet from the legendary Discovery Parts, our journey began in the classroom alongside other newcomers. Instructors provided us with lessons on marshal stands, flag signaling, lead-follow etiquette, and point-by passing. After a shakedown of my new wheels for the weekend, it was time to hit the track, guided by my own dedicated instructor.
Flat out through the esses with a gear change up the hill for the left hander. One of my favourite sections of any race track.
It comes as no surprise to anyone that I am an avid sim racer. I honed my skills years ago on the Playstation and have since upgraded to a full-blown simulator, competing professionally on iRacing. To say that I know Road Atlanta is an understatement, as I have participated in three virtual Petit Le Mans races. To both my instructor's and my surprise, I was fast... maybe even a little too confident. I attacked corners with muscle memory and the biggest grin on my face. Everything translated, from the bumps to the curbing, but now with the added sensation of grip beneath me. I could feel the tires shifting under load and the weight shifting as I threw the little Miata into the esses.
The nimble little Miata made quick work of the heavier cars in my groups.
However, my overconfidence got the best of me, leading to a few mistakes regarding the rookie group etiquette. What impressed me the most was the calm and adult-like manner in which I was addressed, allowing me to bounce feedback off multiple instructors. In the afternoon, I had the pleasure of taking some instructors out for a run, which proved to be extremely helpful. I even believe they enjoyed witnessing a Kiwi learning to drive stick in a left-hand drive car—a first-time experience for me!
Pushing the exit of the final bend was a lot of fun but ultimately where I was losing all my time.
Over the course of the two days, including passenger laps and all sessions, I must have completed at least 70 laps around Road Atlanta. During breaks, I spent time in the famous Michelin tower and even made a visit across the road to Lanier Speedway (now a drift course). Joe Burris took me out for a ride in his insanely quick and stable BMW, giving me my first taste of the grip provided by Pirelli slicks. As the final cars left the pit area, this designer stuck around to watch the sunset, feeling grateful for all the new memories and friends made.
Watching the sun set on an epic first weekend in the USA.
There are numerous individuals to thank for this incredible experience, but above all, I want to express my gratitude to my host for the first leg of my trip, James Marcellana. His kindness, calm demeanor, and willingness to open up his home will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Please take a moment to follow JZILLA Track Days and Balls Out Racing on social media. These two businesses deserve immense praise for their kindness.