PREPARATIONS for the new motorsport season got underway as a number of race teams hit the track for the first time this year at Rockingham on Friday

Teams took full advantage of the Northamptonshire circuit’s first general test day of the new year to put cars and drivers through their early paces in readiness for another busy motor racing season.

For those who missed out on the action, Rockingham has released four more general test dates. Testing will take place on February 4, 21 as well as March 17 and 31. Places cost from just £150 including VAT per car, which includes full medical, safety and marshal cover.

Testing is for MSA and FIA Race Licence-holders driving race-prepared cars only and is ideal for those who need additional track time for set-up and preparation prior to the new racing season starting in March.

Split into open and closed-wheel sessions, testing takes place on the International Super Sportscar Circuit (ISSC) as used for all Rockingham’s race events. This combines a mixture of long straights, sweeping high-speed bends including the infamous Turn 1 on the banked-oval and a technically challenging infield section.

With 27 pit garages built to full international specification available there is plenty of space to work on cars before hitting the ISSC and the circuit is supported by world-class facilities.

These include an Indianapolis-style cold pit lane for refuelling as well as a hot pit lane, fuel station and state-of-the-art equipped medical centre. Broadband wireless internet connection and full catering are available on request.

Rockingham has made it easier for teams to reserve places through its new on-line booking system. Visit store.rockingham.co.uk and click on to the test day section to book, however for those who do not have access to the internet, bookings can still be made via the Rockingham team on 01536 270005.

For those who would like more exclusivity and track space, both semi and exclusive test days are also available upon request. Contact the Rockingham team for more information. The first semi-exclusive test day of this year is scheduled for Tuesday, February 22 at a cost of £500 plus VAT per car.