The F-Type R is mostly reserved for ‘pure pleasure’ driving – and I find myself enjoying it all the more since my Dynamic Handling Masterclass. I really appreciated your explanations, the level of detail, and relevance to my vehicle’s performance. You’ve certainly heightened my appreciation of the balance of the vehicle, the loading on the tyres, and how to gain the most feedback – in practice, opening the envelope of both performance and safety. Of course, with this I’ve also developed more confidence – in myself making accurate and timely inputs, and also in the knowledge that Jaguar’s technical wizardry (DSC / Torque Vectoring) are waiting discreetly to assist should things get a little too exciting! It was great to explore the capability of the Jag’s protective systems, and to get a feel for just ‘how’ provoking I need to be to exceed the levels of grip and road holding available, even in the wet.

I’d come to you with some apprehension about wet/greasy roads, having recently bought the car with legal but very worn rear tyres. New tyres for my session with you, and the space and time to explore the limits have really sorted that out. I honestly thought that trail braking with the left foot was going to be a stretch too far on the day, but wow it just seemed to fall into place – I can only attribute that to the confidence you inspired in me as the day progressed. Lastly – you highlighted the importance and advantage of good planning. Having that longer view, using the side windows where necessary to see the road ahead, looking through bends and linked sections to find the apex early, allows for a smoother, flowing drive – through early gear selection, minimal changes to steering input, and timely throttle. Using balance to enhance grip and performance – like magic!

Overall it’s a very rewarding feeling, knowing much more about what ‘good’ looks and feels like now, to be able to drive a section of road just how I want to – accurately, smooth and safe, and occasionally fast of course! You’ll remember my initial objectives were to explore both the car’s and my own limits, learning more about us both to allow me to get the most from our time together: job done!

I really appreciate your feedback notes, which I’ve copied for easy reference and now keep in the car! Thanks again Ivan.

M. Baillie