Join us on May 8th for the
Lightning Lap Track Day Event on Grand Course
Fueled by Car and Driver and Kaizen Autosport
Join us on May 8th for an adrenaline-packed day at the Car and Driver Lightning Lap Track Day Event on the Grand Course at Virginia International Raceway, powered by Kaizen Autosport. This exclusive event promises an unparalleled experience tailored for motoring enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Experienced drivers get 5 HOURS of OPEN TRACK with unrestricted passing.
For the enthusiasts with little or no track experience, dive into our two-hour school led by professional coaches, designed to hone your skills and confidence on the track.
Not behind the wheel? No problem! Spectators and non-drivers can buckle up for a thrilling Hot Lap with a Pro driver and experience the rush of racing firsthand.
As the day unfolds, class winners will earn well-deserved recognition on the Car and Driver website, celebrating their triumphs. The camaraderie and sportsmanship continue beyond the track as participants gather for a private luncheon with the esteemed Car and Driver Editors and fellow drivers, sharing stories and forging lasting memories. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to be part of automotive history in the making!
Take on VIR's 4.1 Mile 24 Turn Grand Course
Car and Driver Lightning Lap Track Day Event Details
Wednesday, May 8th, from 7 am to 6 pm
Virginia International Raceway
$795 per Driver
Take on VIR's 4.1 Mile 24 Turn Grand Course. This course is a thrilling mix of challenging corners and high-speed straights. The Grand Course is only open as few times each year so don't miss this opportunity.
There are two run groups for Enthusiast Drivers with no track experience and Advanced Drivers ready to set their fastest time.
Price is $795 per driver and includes catered lunch with Car and Driver editors
EXPERIENCED GROUP will get 5 HOURS of OPEN TRACK time
with unrestricted passing limited to maximum of 40 cars
Drivers will get two 1 hour driving sessions in the morning with a 3 hours open track session in the afternoon
Experienced drivers must have at least 5 HPDE track days at any racetrack to compete.
Experienced drivers who wish to compete for the fastest lap will be categorized into one of 10 Street and Race Cars classes. The Car and Driver staff will verify classing for street cars based on the MSRP of the base car. The race car classing is determined by the entrant stating the current value of their vehicle.
Street Car Classes - LL1 Under $40k | LL2 $40k to $75k | LL3 $75k to $140k | LL4 $140k to $280k | LL5 Over $280k
Racecar Classes - Prototype: LLP1 Under 125k | LLP2 Over 125k | GT Cars LLR1 Under 65k | LLR2 65k to 125k | LLR3 Over 125k
Each class winner will receive a Certificate, Car and Driver media online recognition, and an All-Access Road and Track Subscription.
A transponder is required to run the Lightning Lap Time Trial; You can rent one from us when registering or use your own. Transponders must be AMB (Mylaps), and the number is required.
ENTHUSIAST GROUP (limited to 30 drivers maximum)
We welcome drivers who have never been on a track or have fewer than 5 High-Performance Driver Education track days to our Enthusiasts Group.
In four 30-minute driving sessions, you'll follow our professional instructors around the 4.1-mile Grand Course at high speed. As you gain experience and confidence, we will designate passing zones where point-bys will be required. This structured approach ensures a blend of excitement and safety, offering participants the ultimate racing experience within a controlled, low-risk environment.
TRACK CAR AND TRANSPONDERS RENTALS
If you prefer to rent a car for the day, we have over 15 high-performance cars available, including:
Radical SR3s, BMW M235i/240i’s, Nissan 350Z, 718 Porsche Cayman’s, Chevy Camaro SS 1LE, Ginetta G56 GTA, Audi R8 GT4, Lamborghini Super Trofeo, and McLaren 650S GT3.
Click for Rental Options
A transponder is required to run the Lightning Lap Time Trial; You can rent one from us when registering or use your own. Transponders must be AMB (Mylaps), and the number is required.
