Guest contributor Keith Schaefer visited Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Here’s his report:
Recently, the Pursuitist was invited by Pirelli, the official tire supplier for F1, to be a guest at the ‘First Lap Ceremony’ of Circuit of the Americas (CotA) in Austin, Texas.
At the grand opening, CotA welcomed a number of respected racers, most notably F1 racing legend, Mario Andretti. Andretti was given the honor to drive the ceremonial first lap, and went on to express his delight with the track in interviews throughout the day.
Rumors of the technicality of the new track had been raised months before its unveiling on the 21st and with each lap of the track, the rumors were proven true. After experiencing the track as a passenger in a Ferarri Challenge car and then in a 3-seater F1 car, I was impressed, but when I was invited to drive the track on my own in a brand new BMW X3, I was able to see and experience the track as only a driver can.
The track is absolutely exquisite. With highly technical turns, variations in track altitude, and plenty of room to let the engines open up, Circuit of the Americas is sure to entertain and impress all fans of Formula 1.
In just a few days, on November 16 through the 18, the Formula 1 US Grand Prix will be hosted at the newly built Circuit of the Americas (CotA). For more information, visit http://circuitoftheamericas.com/.
Disclaimer: Pirelli sponsored this event and the author was compensated for travel and meals. All opinions expressed are those of the author.
