Fast Lap with Billy Johnson: Laguna Seca
By Billy Johnson
Be sure to check out the rest of Billy's track tutorials
Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, previously known simply as “Laguna Seca” was built in 1957 on the land of Fort Ord; which was a maneuvering area and artillery target range for the US Army. World-renowned (by the help of Playstation video games for the younger generation), the track has hosted Champ Car, ALMS, Grand-Am, Moto GP, World Superbike, Formula 5000, Trans-Am, Can Am, and has been the site for several very memorable races. In 1988 the track was increased to its current 2.238 mile, 11-turn configuration with 300 feet of elevation change and the world-famous “Corkscrew” Turn 8.
In recent years, the walls have been pushed back in Turns 1, 6, the “Rahal Straight”, and turn 9 with significantly more run off room and a more gradual crest approaching the Corkscrew. New FIA curbing was introduced as well as giant red “bread boxes” at every apex to deter drivers from straight-lining corners and dropping tires in the dirt.
With a billiard smooth and a notoriously slick racing surface, Laguna Seca has become world famous for its signature “Corkscrew” and a configuration that makes for exciting racing. After driving many of the tracks in North America, I would have to call Laguna Seca my home track and one of my personal favorites.
While not I behind the wheel, this is an excellent video of Jeff Tyler turning a lap of Laguna Seca behind the wheel of the HP Autowerks E90 335i
