Wednesday we had the pleasure of checking out Orlandos newest racetrack, the Central Florida Road Course. Matt and Reg Tarleton who are overseeing this project invited us out to check out their progress and let us take a few laps in our camouflage 996tt. This freshly developed course was constructed using a large paved plot just minutes from the airport and our new office location. Using bus stops in addition to the acres of paved area on the infield, they where able to create a 1 mile circuit track with various track configuration possible. The road course width is a 30’ minimum throughout and is fenced and walled with tire barriers in impact prone areas.

Overall I was very impressed with the track layout and the facility itself. The overall pavement sections where in good shape and the newly paved sections where very smooth as well. Safety barriers were still being constructed when we visited, however much of the problem areas should be well protected by concrete and tire barriers when the facility goes live in the coming weeks. There is plenty of parking outside the gates, and the interior portions of the track are well lit allowing for night driving sessions in the blazing hot summer months we get here in Florida.

Do to insurance regulations, the course is limited to licensed professional drivers, or drivers who complete the introductory driving course offered at the track. The first such class is January 11th, and we will be attending. Future membership programs and general open days are currently being scheduled, and there is talk of many clubs renting the track out for future events. Overall the track has great potential, it’s definitely not Sebring but this track was not intended to be a comparison to larger tracks. If you’re looking to test vehicle dynamics, keep your driving fresh, or want to learn road racing techniques without traveling, this facility offers a great location to do so. The fees may sound a bit expensive, however as clubs embrace this track and sponsors come on board, you can expect private rentals and open days to become much more frequent and affordable. When you factor in traveling time, hotel costs, etc for your average track weekend, the current price doesn’t seem so bad after all. Future expansion will allow for a longer track and addition facility upgrades, so support local business and check it out.

More information can be found at the tracks website http://cfroadcourse.com/