Lets face it, the year 2020 for the most part has been terrible. Almost went into World War 3, Kobe passed away, economy tanked, and the Corona Virus pandemic seem to continue on with no relief in site. New laws, and social distancing, it feels like we are living in a dystopian universe. When will things go back to normal?

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Im honestly not sure when things will go back normal, where we don’t need to wear masks, venues and resturants can be at 100% capacity, or international travel will open up. But we can adapt to the situation and make the most of it. I didn’t let the 2020 hardships get to me, I still had some goals I wanted to attain, and just pushed forward. Made some sacrifices to focus on my goals for this year.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Having recently attained my competition license, and with NASA season over this year. I was invited to track with Dog House Garage at Buttonwillow. The original plan was to track there with other drivers from Houston, Tx. Unfortunately everyone back out, but that didn’t stop me. I was going regardless, because I do it for the experience and memories. I want to improve my driver resume, and one day get paid to race.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

My friend Mike, this year, quit his job at Tesla to focus on his detailing business full time. I give him major props, fully committed with the current economy, were things are uncertain. Then recently, he bought an enclosed trailer for business to transport cars. Naturally I hit him up to transport my AE86 to California and back.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

My other friend Kevin tagged along for the journey. I was thinking of flying, but I didnt want to leave the homies. Next time, I am booking a flight, because the drive to California and back is just brutal. Nothing but endless roads, and Texas is just soo big to cross through.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

We left Wednesday morning, and about 3 hrs into the trip we heard a thud in the back of the trailer while stopping for gas. We checked on the AE86, and find out it came loose from the straps and the front bumper was damage. Mike felt very bad, but I wasn’t mad because at least it was the bumper and nothing else got damage. Bumpers are replaceable, and I can still drive with no bumper.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I posted online to see if we can maybe get a bumper on the way to California. Well, my friend Thaison was only an hour away from the gas station, and let my borrow his mint JDM front bumper. Before, the bumpers where cheap, and now people are asking 1k plus for them. I was very thankful Thaison trusted me to use his bumper. I have to look good for the photos, rep Texas, and Natsukashi Garage.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

We then continued to head to California, and making a stop at Las Cruses, NM. We arrived at midnight, and was 30F outside. Tired, and cold but the Airbnb RV we stayed kept us warm, and slept for 5 hrs before heading back on the road.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Day 2, we drove another 12hrs and made it to California! Averaged 6-8mpg, thankfully gas right now is about $2.50 per gallon average. The Airbnb we had didn’t have enough room to park the truck and trailer in the driveway. But thankfully, we had enough space to park in the street. The next day, we headed to Buttonwillow for the Dog House Garage event.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

First time at Buttonwillow, but I did watch some youtube videos so at least I know where Im going around the track. Not look like a total noob. A lot nice cars came out for the Dog House Garage track event. These are cars, with expensive parts but the drivers are still tracking them. Thats what I like about the track scene in California. People are actually tracking cars that are track modified for that purpose. In Texas, you see a lot of track inspired builds but most are hard parked. I get that side because you don’t want to ruin it by some off excursion at the track. But tracking a car is more legit to me, and more fun then just flexing in a parking lot.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I met a lot great people at Dog House and the organizers were welcoming. It was a HPDE event but had a Time Attack style to it. Some of the drivers compete in time attack and out fine tuning their cars. The track has a mix of tight 2nd gear corners to blind elevation changes, to long straights with fast sweepers. The run off here is very forgiving, but you throw a lot of dust if you do go off.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I managed a 2:14.6 at Buttonwillow. Its not the slowest, but not the fastest either. First time out and I was pleased with that time. I was 2 seconds faster then a Type R, but then again the local drivers hit sub 2 mins in their Type R too haha. I have a lot to improve as a driver, but also shows driver mod is the best mod to get faster.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Dog House Garage provided food for the drivers, and had a raffle after lunch with nice swag give aways. Im talking, ST suspension, Sparco bags, Personal wheel, gift vouchers. This is something I need to do for the Driven and Blessed driving events back home.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Shout out to Thaison for letting me borrow his rare expensive JDM bumper. I could have tracked with no bumper but, I wouldn’t get cool shots like this.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

After the Dog House Garage event, we dropped off the trailer and headed back into LA because the guys at VIS racing had an available bumper for my AE86. We met at 10pm at a restaurant parking lot to pick up the bumper. They knew I had a track event that day, and saved the last bumper for me. Super cool dudes, and now I have my own bumper!

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

The next day I headed down to Streets of Willow for the Topak Racing Event. This was just coincidence. Jomar is one of the organizers for Topak Racing, and saw I was in California. He messaged me about the Streets of Willow event, and of course I’m always down for track days. Last time I was with Topak Racing was 3 yrs ago in the M3. It was good to be back.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Streets of Willow is a track suited for the lower HP cars, and abrasive to the tires. I rotated the tires after my 2nd session to even out the wear better. They tend to wear faster on the driver side then in the passenger side. The flowing corners and harsh runs off is similar style to touge canyon runs in the mountains. Very Initial D like.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

The Topak Racing track event seemed to bring out the old school Toyotas and cars out. Most of them where OG corolla guys before facebook or instagram.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

This has the original CYB fenders, with a JDM 3sge head on a Camry bottom end.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I believe the owner said it was making about 200whp on low boost. Awesome looking car.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

This track seems to give the FWD cars home advantage. I was in an intense battle with the Hondas. Its open passing in my run group, and they did pass me. I talked to drivers to find out their times today was in the sub 1 min and 30 second range.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Unfortunately couldn’t beat that time. My predictive lap timing was showing I was -0.35 second faster but I went off course on the bowl. Ended scuffing up Thaison rare bumper.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I felt super bad and pretty much the same way Mike felt when my bumper got smashed. Thankfully it was just scuffs on the bumper and few bent metal tabs for the lip. Still bummed, and that what happens when you keep going for the limit.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

After that off excursion I dialed it back and was more careful. I didn’t put my bumper on from VIS racing because I didn’t have the mounting tabs for it haha. I managed a 1:34.3 as my fastest time. Only 1.8 seconds slower in the M3 when I was out here 3 yrs ago.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Since I knew I couldn’t get into the sub 30 second range, I said to myself, might as well look good for the gram. So I just drifted to last corner on the last session. If I had more time, I think I could have broke the sub 30 mark. Another reason to come back.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

As the day came to an end, I bumped into Sung Kang! He was actually at the event driving!! He came by to say hi and complimented the 86! Nice guy and signed my friend’s trailer! I was sooo star stuck, and glad I went on this trip. I hope next year, I’ll get some wins from racing, and maybe bag some sponsors. Then maybe instruct for other organizations too. 2020 is a year to remember.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Photo Credit: Kevin, and Cali Photography.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I’ve been attending track days for some years now, and always loved it. I track once a month and was my way to destress from work and calms me down driving in city streets. I learned a lot over the years and made me a better driver at the track and street.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

This December, I saw a NASA event that had the competition eval course at Eagles Canyon Raceway. This was 3 day event, and and accelerated program to get your racing license. Not recommend for new drivers, only for HPDE4 and Time Trial drivers. The first day you get classroom time in the morning. It goes over he rules and regulations for racing, and passing. They don’t teach race craft. After the classroom, there is an 50 question exam on NASA rule book for racing. In the afternoon, you will do some practice drills and then a mock race at the end of the day.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

If you pass the test and not have any incidents by the end of the 1st day, you are well on you way to get your racing license. They will give you provincial license, and join the races for day 2 and 3. The provisional license isn’t a competition license. The provisional license allows you race in your region only. In order to attain a comp license, you need to do 4 races without incident. After each race, the race director signs your card. After 4 signatures, you get your competition license. The competition license allows you race nationally in any NASA events.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

You have to place large orange “R” markings around the car and a big orange sticker on the back to show to the other racers that you are a rookie. Once you do 8 races without incident and make sure to get the race director signatures from the 8 races. You can remove the orange markings and “R” but you are still a rookie for the 1st year.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

My AE86 wasn’t ready safety wise for wheel to wheel, but I really wanted my racing license. I went to Dennis who rents out a spec Miata for competition or HPDE. This is his website: http://www.rentalmiata.com. The car is a spec miata that is all ready for track use.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

This was my first out at this track and also driving a spec Miata. I knew my track experience will help me, and knowing your limits. Of course, I was nervous, but sometimes in order to get what you want, you have to step out your comfort zone.

Each day are set up in 4 sessions. 1st session is a warm up, 2nd is qualifying for grid. Session 3 and 4 are the races. You have one drivers meeting and that is after the qualifying. The drivers meeting talks about starting format, and other rules that might be added for the races.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I camped in the paddock located in Decatur, Tx. Every morning I woke to the frosty cold. Then the last night, it rained. Thankfully, the Miata rental was covered and stayed dry. My Roofnest tent putting in work, since I bought it. Learning from past cold experiences, I layered up in the cold, and thankfully stayed warm and dry.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I finished my 4th race, and received my competition license! I can race wheel to wheel in any NASA event, and for the most the license allows me to join other w2w events. I will be setting up the AE86 to get up to spec for wheel to wheel safety wise. 2021 will be the start of my rookie season! Hope to see y’all at the track!

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I want to thank Will for letting borrow his trailer, Dennis for letting me rent the Miata, and all my track homies for pushing and inspiring me! Special thanks to my wife, because she supports my hobby 100%.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I got to say wheel to wheel racing is next level. The adrenaline rush is nothing like I’ve experienced before. Nothing bad, all good vibes. 

Day 4 started with a plan to pick up the fuel pump and a new battery. Both Mikes woke early to heard into town. While we waited, Cathy and Theresa cooked breakfast tacos. I made sure to cover the ashes from yesterdays campfire. Along the mountain road we saw the occasional early travelers passing by.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

When the Mikes came back, we started to work on the GX. We installed the new battery and fuel pump. Pretty quick and easy with the big hole that was cut yesterday. We let the fuel pump prime and it was the moment of truth.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Gave the GX a couple of cranks, and then the sweet smooth sound of the V8 purring. I wish I got it on video because everyone was just jumping for joy. I never felt this excited and relief since I did my first motor swap. Now everyone is ready for a day of adventure.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

We all packed up and said goodbye to the campsite. This site would be something to remember.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Todays campsite route would take us to a hot spring we passed yesterday. Colorado is known for hot springs and it was something to check out while here. The water wasn’t surprising hot and was crystal clear. You could see the mineral formation where the water rain though. The dogs were being mischievous. I didn’t mind babysitting them, while the other took pictures.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

After that quick detour we continued on. The drive was about 4hrs total. From here on, its just mostly dirt roads and driving on famous mountain passes.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

The site I pinned, was near Ryan’s campsites he had marked as back ups. Today was a Friday, and the entrance to the trail was pretty packed. It felt like peak season in Colorado, but that is also why we have 4x4s. We can venture deeper into the trail to hopefully find more secluded spots that normal SUVs or cars can’t get into.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

The trail was pretty long and it was pretty packed up to the last established campsite. Then there was a rougher dirt road that said 4×4 high clearance recommended. That was a good sign, hopefully less people there.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

It got more steep and rough in certain spots. I put the Land Cruiser into 4L to decrease strain on the motor and transmission.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

We arrived to my pin location, and the whole area was generally packed. Kind of a bummer, with very limited spots. Being 5 rigs deep was another problem to make sure we had enough space. Thankfully we did find a nice big open area.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

We immediately took the spot and Branden went deeper to potentially find a better spot. Branden eventually radio in to us he found another spot, but wanted another rig to check it out. So Mike with the Tacoma went and then radioed another person to see if it was doable. Then Mike with the GX went to check it out.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

That left Ryan and me at the campsite. Nadine and Lambo went to explore around the site and found a small river just behind the bushes we parked. Then next thing I know, Branden and the Mikes came back. I was thinking the campsite wasn’t that good? But I was hyped, and I figured why not and check out the campsite that Branden found.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Sooo we did a vote on which campsite to stay in. Branden’s campsite that has more trees for shade but a tight space, or the first campsite that was spacious but no trees for shade.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

The majority vote was Branden’s campsite. We all went up there and I was kind of excited to see the new site since we can get some shade and protection from the cold winds. Well, turns out it was just a bit too small for all of our rigs to fit. Sooo back to the orignal campsite.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

By this time, we all just wanted to set up camp, but then Ryan noticed a sign. No motorized vehicles, We were in the zone where vehicles are not allowed. I get it, because with any parks you want to protect the wildlife and vegetation. Obeying the signs and not trespassing is what will keep parks open.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

1hr has passed since we arrived in the area, and no official camp yet. Then Mike saw another site that wasn’t too far, and turned out to be perfect. It had enough space for our rigs, and a fire pit with firewood left behind from previous campers.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

The view looks into the mountain valley. I can imagine already how the sunrise and sunset is gonna be. We set up camp, and had some time to explore the campsite.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Branden expoled trials with his hardtail Santa Cruz mountain bike. Cathy, Nadine, Mike with the Tacoma, and the kiddos found a nice river stream not to far where we can refill the water jugs for cleaning and showering. Mike with the Tacoma noticed a road that lead up to the river and was not occupied.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

I chilled by the fire pit and when Branden came back I rode his mountain bike around the dirt roads. Branden, Mike, Cathy, Nadine and the dogs went to hike up a trailhead, because there was a waterfall at the end of the trail.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Meanwhile, Ryan and his parents where prepping to make chicken adobo for dinner. I haven’t had that dish in a long time, and glad I was able to have it again. Better yet, in the mountain out camping. Its a one pot dish but you have to prep the food, and let it simmer for hours. I was thankful Ryan and his parents made that dish for everyone.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

While I was biking, I was really impressed the way the Santa Cruz absorbed the bumps and rocks while bombing down hills. Then the gearing to climb made it easy. But the the thin mountain air got me struggling. I did find the trail that Mike found next to stream and it was a gem. The trail that takes you there looked like a dead end unless you ventured a couple feet more past the stream crossing. The area was secluded with better views. When I got back into camp I told the boys about it and we all concluded to set up camp there tomorrow.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

With everyone back at the campsite, the chicken adobo meal was just about ready to be served. We also had rice, cooked the old fashon way, hard boil eggs, and pickled veggies on the side. We where eating good.

With everyone pretty full. We all talked about the plan for tomorrow since up to this point we kind had a plan and now its just go with the flow. Mike with the GX had to leave in couple of days because the kids had school. We decided to head to one of the famous trails tomorrow and then had back to new secret campsite we found.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

We met another camper that just need to use a bottle open for a drink. Branden was pretty impressed in the dedication, because most people would have just gotten another drink.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

Later in the night, Ryan was out taking some pretty cool night shots. While the rest went to bed, or stayed around the campfire till there was no more wood left to burn.

//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js

That night was coldest night from the trip. I think because we camped in the middle of the mountain valley, and funneled in the cold air. Nadine, and I felt the cold even even with the sleeping bag and fleece blanket. Lambo later that night was also cold, and I tucked him next to me for extra warmth.

Stay tuned and thanks for reading!