Curbstone Legends - Spring 2018

CURBSTONE LEGENDS

MORE THAN BLACK.

IT TAKES TIME TO BUILD A LEGEND…

Welcome to the world of Curbstone. A world of ultimate driving and racing, in a gentlemanly environment and clearcut ambitions. Since Patrick Van Glabeke founded Curbstone Track Events, we have become Europe’s most important Track and Test Day organiser. But it was not all plain sailing, no legend is born in a single day. The frst years involved real pioneering work, constantly looking for the ideal formula that all Curbstone drivers felt comfortable with. However, I prefer to call our clients ‘Curbstone Friends’. The friendly ambiance on and around the circuits has always been one of our successes’ determining factors. Friendship, discipline and mutual respect are crucial for an excellent Track and Test Day. Of equal importance is the professional framework. Right from the very beginning, Curbstone placed great eforts in its services and facilities, to this day ofering added value to a track day, incorporating tyre services, comprehensive technical assistance, limited number of participants, tailored catering, … and last but not least the choice of iconic circuits. This was the moment GT drivers all over Europe had been waiting for.

Over the years, we have had the pleasure to welcome an ever-increasing number of drivers and racers at our Curbstone Track and Test Days. We opted to split the GTSport from the GT-Race sessions, allowing everyone to enjoy maximum pleasure from a Curbstone event.

For 2018 we are ofering our GT drivers an ever more extensive programme, and the positive response from our growing group of loyal Curbstone Friends stimulates us to go even further and continue to strive for perfection. With our beloved SpaFrancorchamps and Circuit Paul Ricard as mainstays, we will continue expanding our selection of F1 and GT racing circuits in Central and Southern Europe. Our focal point remains the Curbstone experience. This vital part of our DNA has been the root of

our organisation. On the one hand we have our organising team with Greta Rosada, in charge of all communication and the Spa and Test Day event coordinator, Julie Zucca who has taken on the challenge of developing our activities in France and last but not least Frederic Jonckheere who is handling the logistics and event support. On the other hand, we have a group of professional racing driver coaches to guide our drivers on the track and bring them to near on perfection.

Today Curbstone is part of a joint venture between the SRO Motorsports Group and the Royal Automobile Club of Belgium (RACB). On the one hand, this union made Curbstone become the ideal Track and Test Days for racing drivers and teams, who wish to practice and test, and, at the same time, a launch pad for ambitious drivers looking to take the next step into specifc race series.

Such as the Blancpain GT Sports Club for Bronze gentlemen drivers with a passion for GT3 cars, or professional drivers and amateurs, who want to access GT racing through the GT4 Series. On the other hand, the RACB ofers proven track day drivers the exclusive possibility of obtaining a Belgian racing licence via the RACB Racing School by testing drivers’ skills during Curbstone Track and Test Days.

Also our long-time partners Pirelli and BMW M have been key contributors to the success of Curbstone. This year we welcome Stand 21 and ETS Racing Fuels as new partners to improve the Curbstone service platform.

Going forward we have every intention of further raising our levels of service and hospitality for our Curbstone Friends. These remain our biggest motivation. Together we keep the legend alive.

Wishing you enjoyable reading and outstanding driving pleasure.

Ludovic Colman General Manager Curbstone

TRACK AND TEST DAYS

GT-SPORT + GT-RACE

Driving your GT or racing car on circuit does not get any better than this. Have fun, feel safe, discover or test your car and let Curbstone take care of everything. On average we limit the participants to 45 street-legal GT and sports cars for the GT-Sport sessions and 25 race cars for the GTRace sessions. So, nothing can come between you and your driving sensations on the track.

THE RACING CIRCUITS

Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps (BE), Circuit Zolder (BE), Circuit Paul Ricard (FR), Circuit Dijon-Prenois (FR), Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours (FR), Nordschleife (DE), Hungaroring (HU).

INCLUDED:

Live timing, Pirelli Motorsport Tyre service, ETS Racing Fuels service, technical assistance, Stand 21 race-wear service, photo service, refreshments and gourmet catering during the day, lunch and the closing champagne cocktail, accommodation/hotel service.

FIND THE FULL CURBSTONE 2018 CALENDAR ON THE BACK PAGE.

TEST DAYS

GT-RACE ONLY

Get behind the wheel of your racing car on legendary F1 and GT circuits in Europe and you will be in for one of your most intense Test Days in 2018. Total entrants are kept low (average 25 cars), so every driver can test his car’s limits in an open pit lane format.

THE RACING CIRCUITS

Autodromo Nazionale di Monza (IT), Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (ES), Circuit Paul Ricard (FR), Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli (IT), Hungaroring (HU).

INCLUDED

Live timing, Pirelli Motorsport Tyre service, ETS Racing Fuels service, technical assistance, Stand 21 race wear, photo service, refreshments and healthy catering during the day, lunch, closing champagne cocktail, accommodation/hotel service.

‘Ending a full day of racing with a cocktail in hand is the true and ultimate Curbstone Experience.’

‘Bringing the passion for driving beautiful GT cars to the track, that’s what our main task is.’

From left, Curbstone Welcome Crew Greta Rosada and Julie Zucca during a Track and Test Day at Circuit Paul Ricard.

SPA 2H & AZUR 2H

THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE THE CIRCUIT

Are you driving at Spa-Francorchamps or Circuit Paul Ricard for the first time?

Are you looking to test your new car prior to a Track and Test Day?

Do you want to go flat out on track?

Curbstone offers the 2 Hours evening session at Spa-Francorchamps and Circuit Paul Ricard.

CALENDAR 2018

2H

SPA 2H from 18:00 to 20:00 - 2-hour open pit lane AZUR 2H from 17:00 to 19:00 - 2-hour open pit lane Only GT and sports cars in perfect technical condition are accepted.

JOIN US IN 2019 AT LAKE LAPLAND... 2019 SEASON

‘ Te handling of a Porsche on ice is unlike anything else. Te same power and agility you feel on the track and yet so diferent. So challenging. And so satisfying.’

PHILIPPE DE CRAENE, PORSCHE CENTRE EAST-FLANDERS

LAPLAND ICE DRIVING

Ice drivers can’t miss out on this thrilling experience. A unique location, a marvellous selection of Porsche cars, highly skilled coaches and the renowned Curbstone hospitality…

GT-SNOW RST 4DAYS

ALL THE GOOD STUFF AND MORE.

Fly directly to Arvidsjaur, Lapland. During 4 days long tackle the ice and on the 4th day be astounded by an unforgettable AM ski-scooter tour in the Lapland woods. Enjoy our renowned hospitality in the Curbstone Winter Villa and share your experiences and highlights with other skilled ice drivers. This is the real deal.

GT-SNOW RS 3DAYS GT-SNOW S 3DAYS

ICE DRIVER, LAPLAND IS YOURS.

You really want to put yourself to the test? Looking to unleash the car’s full power letting the spikes handle it on Lake Lapland? Choose 3 days of pure ice driving sensations. Fly directly to Arvidsjaur, Lapland. Hit the ice and enjoy the ambiance in the Curbstone Winter Villa. Only for experienced ice drivers!

THIS IS HOW ICE DRIVING ALWAYS SHOULD BE LIKE.

Hit the frozen lake, feel the spikes biting in and go all the way during the Curbstone Challenge on Lake Lapland. Real ice driving gets to you like no other driving stage can do. You have to experience it to believe it. Fly directly to Arvidsjaur, Lapland. Hit the ice and enjoy the Curbstone hospitality with an exceptional lake dinner, night stage and winter ceremony.

‘ What can I say? Tere was a big three-day grin on my face. I’m still smiling when I look back on the experience.’

CURBSTONE FRIEND

‘ From the beginning I had a clear idea of what Curbstone should become. Low-profle but high quality. Track driving under the best conditions, on the best locations, in a gentlemen-atmosphere.’

The Curbstone story began shortly after Patrick Van Glabeke had purchased his first Ferrari. He was already familiar with sports cars, but the F430 was on another level of power and performance as compared to the 911 Porsches he had owned up until then. In order to learn how to fully master the car he went to the Ferrari training centre in Maranello. “I thought I was a good driver as I was clocking up 60.000 km/year at that time,” he laughs. “But when I got behind the wheel with a Ferrari instructor at my side, it soon became apparent that I was doing almost everything wrong.” Nonetheless in Italy he discovered the full driving potential of his F430 on the track. It left him hungry for more.

EVERY LEGEND STARTS WITH AN IDEA

Together with some friends, who also participated in the Ferrari courses at Fiorano, he visited various existing track days. However, on each occasion it turned out to be a disappointing experience. “Try to visualise this: we arrived at the circuit with our recent GT cars and were then obliged to drive in between cars some of which didn’t even develop half or a quarter of our horsepower. Not only was that frustrating but pretty dangerous also. The diference in speed was far too high and not all drivers behaved as they should on the track. There was a complete lack of discipline and respect among the drivers.” Aside of the track it was also a rather pitiful experience. “Looking for fuel or even having something to drink was not easy. Buying an – almost always poor– photo of yourself in your GT car at the track was an expensive joke. Not our idea of an enjoyable track day.”

FROM PASSION TO ORGANISATION.

These frst experiences awoke the entrepreneur in Patrick. “I decided to go for it on my own, and together with some Ferrari and Porsche friends, created Curbstone. Right from the outset the philosophy was

clear-cut: to rent the best circuits in Europe, accept only powerful GT cars so that the diferences in speed would remain modest, maintain a limited participation feld, focus on disciplined drivers and ensure a decent lunch at noon. The night before we dine together amongst friends, and we end the track day with a glass of champagne. And everything happens with due discretion.” It appeared to be the right formula. However, the track days needed some time to develop. “In the early days it was not a given success. During the frst years we had around ffteen participants at a track day. Not bad, but certainly not enough to break-even. It goes without saying that renting a circuit such as Spa-Francorchamps doesn’t come cheap.” His friends decided to leave the organisation but Patrick pushed ahead. “I lost money but believed in the concept and wanted to give it more time to grow.”

FROM 20 TO 300 CURBSTONE FRIENDS.

Eventually success followed. After four years the number of drivers at a Curbstone event had risen to more than sixty. Patrick: “Quite clearly one can see that there’s an audience for it. People who own a

PATRICK VAN GLABEKE CURBSTONE FOUNDER AND INSPIRER

‘ Te badge in itself doesn’t mean much for me during racing. Once your behind the wheel you don’t see much of the nice exterior design anyway.’

Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche GT car expect a certain standard. And this they discovered at Curbstone. The entire framework, taking in the technical support, tyre service and refned catering makes all the diference. Not forgetting the limited feld of participants. The same goes for the decision to introduce the diference between GT-Sport and GT-Race sessions.”

As a driver Patrick evolved over the years. “My Ferrari 430 was fantastic, but a racing car is still something else. Not only when it comes to performance. You’re also safer and have a better seating position. My frst real racing car was a Porsche GT3 Cup, an excellent machine. Today I race a Ferrari 488 GT3, a marvellous car in which I feel at ease.” After many Curbstone Track and Test Days he joined the Blancpain GT Sports Club as a racing driver with AF Corse and Rinaldi Racing, the team under whose colours he participated in the Total 24 Hours of Spa.

SUPERIOR ITALIANS, FUN BEETLES.

Although he is to be seen behind the wheel of his Ferrari 488 GT3 for track days and races he wouldn’t call himself a die-hard Ferrari fan who only drives Ferrari. “Ferrari cars are great for track racing. Technically pure jewels, and their reliability is phenomenal. But in

fun on the track. “I also compete in the VW Fun Cup. It’s an accessible formula with an entirely diferent type of car to my GT or racing cars. But it ofers a feeling of pure racing and it is budget friendly. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.”

He doesn’t see an immediate end to love for track driving amongst GT owners. “It’s true that the government isn’t a sports car’s best friend or in fact the car in general at a fscal level – to say the least. And fast driving on public roads is no longer possible as compared to 20 years ago, due to the omnipresent speed trap cameras. Nevertheless, in recent years and to this day many sports cars are being sold. It’s only at Curbstone events that GT owners are able to drive their cars to the limit without risking a fne. Racing in itself has also evolved in a big way. Some decades ago GT races were quite amateurish as compared to today’s professionalism and safety. Naturally it all costs money. For this reason, opting for a racing car is somewhat limited. However, you don’t need to register it for road-going use and as such no need to pay expensive taxes and insurances either. You take it to the track or have it delivered to the circuit after which you can start to race. I personally believe that the end of the GT and racing car era is not for tomorrow. In the future we’ll see more hybrid cars – unfortunately also on the track – similar to what we saw with the introduction of the

CURBSTONE TRACK AND TEST DAY SERVICES

COACHING

Learn from the very best Driving on a circuit for the first time? Are you an experienced driver but looking to improve your technique? At every Track and Test Day Curbstone provides a team of renowned international drivers from the world’s most celebrated Championships (F1, Blancpain GT Series, Le Mans Series, …). The multilingual Curbstone Team is at your disposal at both the GT-Sport and GT-Race sessions.

TYRES FOR THE TRACK

No Curbstone event without the Pirelli Tyre Service. Once again in 2018 our tyre partner will be present at each Curbstone Track and Test Day. Choose from a wide selection of tyres and trust Pirelli Motorsport’s technical expertise.

> P Zero Trofeo R tyres available for street-legal GT cars.

> P Zero Rain, Slick and Trofeo R tyres available for GT racing cars.

TRANSPORT

We handle your car with the greatest care

Want to have your car delivered to the racetrack flawlessly? Discover our interesting rates, covering the transport of your car(s), in addition to one set of tyres.

www.curbstone.net/en/offering/car-transport-service/

SERVICE POINT

Your car is always ready

Hit the track with a car in perfect running order. Professional technicians check and service your GT or racing car with a keen eye on every aspect to ensure a fun and assured experience.

SRO RACE CENTRE BY MMC

For your racing experiences at Circuit Paul Ricard only, Curbstone will be at your side with a superior technical assistance for your car thanks to the SRO Race Centre by MMC. The Centre offers the finest technical and logistical support, with every facility for testing, preparation and storage of road and race cars. The SRO Race Centre will be available for assistance requests at each Curbstone AZUR events at Circuit Paul Ricard.

CAR STORAGE SERVICES

• Secured car storage

• Insurance coverage

• Preparation on admission

• Monthly care

• Technical services and mechanical repair

• On-track technical assistance

TEST & DRIVING SERVICES

• Technical pit assistance during track sessions

• Privileged access to the racetrack and paddocks

• Transport services to other circuits and events

• Daily track time availability from 5pm to 7pm

• Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Super Trofeo available for track rental

TEAMS ACCOMMODATION SERVICES

• While on the way to race meetings or prior and after race events at Circuit Paul Ricard, SRO Race Centre offers teams a unique location for maintenance and rebuild of their cars.

• Storage and working space of approximately 25 m2 with air supply, electricity, high pressure water jet, air bottle compressor, access to a scissor lift, office and lounge access.

• Truck/motorhome secured parking

• Daily track time availability from 5pm to 7pm

• Tyre service

EVENTS AND MARKETING SERVICES

• Located in the heart of Circuit Paul Ricard’s paddock with a direct view of the Mistral straight, the SRO Race Centre offers two reception halls, 420 m2 and 1800 m2 with bar, lounge, cloakroom, lavatories and offices. Fully equipped with A/C and lightning and a large loading bay at the rear for catering and equipment parking.

• Available for special events, receptions, presentation or team events, the Mistrall Hall is a unique facility within Circuit Paul Ricard.

At every Curbstone event, Stand 21 will be present to provide tailor-made race wear. They address the needs of all drivers for every racing category. From vintage to top-flight race wear, Stand 21 offers you the perfect solution when looking for the best protection from fire or impacts, as also from the intense heat generated inside hot cockpits.

21 works in close collaboration with the world’s most knowledgeable medical practitioners and safety experts through the Racing Goes Safer Foundation. All hand-crafted products are produced within Stand 21’s own factories, exceeding the most rigorous safety and medical standards demanded by the FIA, SFI and the SNELL Foundation.

and

using ETS

Fuels. In order to satisfy not only high-profile teams, but also a wider audience, ETS products have been enriched with more affordable fuels such as the IRF 102 fuel, that will be available at each Curbstone event.

EVERYDAY THE EXTRA MILE

LUDOVIC COLMAN GENERAL MANAGER CURBSTONE

Ludovic Colman took over the torch from founder Patrick Van Glabeke in 2015. For Curbstone he wasn’t an unknown individual. As Motorsport and Event Manager for Pirelli Benelux he supplied tyres at the Track and Test Days. In addition, he emanates from an entrepreneurial family with a heart for racing.

Ludovic tells, “My father used to participate in competitions and desert rallies and as a youngster he often took me to the track. Hence it could be said that from a very young age I grew up in the racing world.” Patrick quickly saw that Ludovic possessed the right spirit and the necessary qualities to steer Curbstone to a higher level. Passion for racing might be one thing, but managing a high-profle company and knowing what clients might expect is equally important. Right from the beginning it was clear which lines Ludovic would follow: “Curbstone’s basic philosophy remains the same. But similar to any other organisation looking to move forward and having the ambition to go beyond our clients’ aspirations, I place a great deal of attention on innovation. With this in mind I’m centring on new services to make it even more enjoyable for our drivers. The Test Days are entirely

focussed on “Racing and High performance testing”. As such both for the racers and the teams we concentrate on providing all the services they would normally need to take on themselves; such as tyres, fuel, timekeeping (we even developed an APP), but also catering and so forth …. At our Track and Test Days we not only cater to a wider audience but also an increasing number of guests, ofering them a varied choice ranging from a Healthy Juice Bar through to having a Barista on hand and a chef preparing artisanal pancakes.”

HARD WORKING AND CREATIVE THINKING.

Today Patrick remains on hand with advice for Ludovic. Though the organisation has grown and the structure is up and running, it remains hard work. “That’s the main reason of our success until now,” Ludovic comments. “There are no wonder formulas.

‘ We only work with experienced co-workers, partners and suppliers which we personally select. It’s the only way to keep everything at a high echelon while unremittingly improving... ’

VIP Track Time for Curbstone drivers only just before the start of the Total 24 Hours of Spa in 2017. Ludovic (left) is in the pit lane for a second checking point, every driver must respect safety rules.

From left, Ludovic during a Curbstone Track and Test Day at Circuit Paul Ricard in 2017 together with General Manager SRO Race Centre by MMC Olivier Lyonett and founder of Mécaniques Modernes & Classiques (MMC) Michel Mhitarian.

From left, General Manager Ludovic Colman with Curbstone coach Frederique Jonchkheere during a Track and Test Day in Spa-Francorchamps in 2016 season. Frederique is also responsible of logistics and event support for the success of Curbstone events.

‘ Arrive at the track, watch how the car is prepared and drive. But it doesn’t stop with the track. In and around the pit boxes the stress-free atmosphere is kept on a high note. ’

We remain true to Patrick’s original idea and work tirelessly to make Curbstone even more exciting for our clients. Another factor is that we only work with experienced co-workers, partners and suppliers which we personally select. It’s the only way to keep everything at a high echelon while unremittingly improving…”. Comparable to racing drivers continually perfecting their driving skills under ideal conditions on a track? “You could say that,” Ludovic laughs. “Only we don’t sit behind the wheel but dash from one event location to another to ensure that everything is perfectly organised.”

FOLLOW THE TRENDS. SET NEW STANDARDS.

The on-going development of Curbstone is defnitely not one-way trafc, Ludovic continues: “Patrick started Curbstone from a vision he shared with his initial clients, namely the numerous friends and acquaintances. The feedback was spontaneous, leading to an organically grown organisation. Today Curbstone is far bigger, but still retains that open and formal-informal atmosphere. Our drivers

freely come to us with their feedback and suggestions.” Questions or proposals independent from the regular Curbstone programme can often be realised. Ludovic explains, “Some Curbstone Friends who brought their GT cars to our Track and Test Days told us they also owned an F1 car and asked whether we could organize an event specifcally for them. We therefore put something together ofering them the opportunity to drive their F1 cars on the track, always under Curbstone’s recognised professional and afable atmosphere. In their eyes we are Europe’s sole Track and Test Day organiser they would call on to put such a thing together.” Curbstone will always remain true to the core concept whilst exploring new possibilities when it comes to services, facilities and catering. Each year the bar is being raised. As such these Track and Test Day events remain class-leaders on the European scene.

PLUG & PLAY, THE WHOLE DAY.

At the heart of Curbstone’s Track and Test Days is the Plug & Play concept. Drivers arrive at the circuit with their GT car and

can tackle the track immediately. “You can take that almost literally,” Ludovic adds. “We have a Pirelli Tyre Service waiting for them which swaps their regular tyres for Race and Track Day tyres, and store them during the entire day. Should they so wish their car can be given a full check-up at our Curbstone Service Point.” Dedicated marshalls follow the GT Sport and GT Race sessions. And one rarely sees the red fag being waved. How come? Ludovic states, “On the one hand we have the marshals keeping a watchful eye on everything, and on the other we make sure cars are ftted with a transponder, so the race control is able to monitor each car. At the start of the day should we spot something that could possibly lead to problems, we will talk to the driver. However, this is rarely the case seeing Curbstone Friends are gentlemen drivers who show respect for one another on the track. People with a limited track experience are introduced to a Curbstone coach. It works perfectly and all drivers are appreciative. On top of that per session the number of cars is kept low. That way it

remains enjoyable driving for everybody.”

THE CURBSTONE APPROACH IS UNIQUE IN EUROPE.

Arrive at the track, watch how the car is prepared and drive. But it doesn’t stop with the track. In and around the pit boxes the stress-free atmosphere is kept on a high note. “We want our drivers to be utterly happy. We welcome and host them in our VIP Hospitality/ F1 Pit Boxes which are furnished with an open-bar serving fresh drinks and gourmet snacks, the lounge and race simulator area, changing rooms and naturally our welcome desk. Two pit lane hosts are permanently in the pit lane to assist the drivers and teams in everything. As a Track and Test Day organiser in Europe this makes us unique. Thanks to our dedicated focus on high end GTs, the drivers’ safety, the cosiness of our hospitality and our general approach to facilities, at the end of the day our drivers always want to sign up for the following Track and Test Day or another Curbstone event.” says Ludovic.

LAPLAND: UNFORGETTABLE DRIVING SENSATIONS ON ICE.

Ice Driving … some say there’s nothing more exciting than that. “It was one of Patrick’s ideas,” Ludovic commented. “Once again it went according to the golden Curbstone rule: if we do it, we do it well.” A direct flight brings the small group of Ice Drivers to Arvidsjaur, in Lapland. There they experience the typical sensations that ice driving offers, with specifically prepared GT cars. Both in the Curbstone Winter Villa, and during the evenings in the Curbstone Lounge, they can relax and enjoy the reputed and pleasant Curbstone atmosphere. Ludovic comments, “Nothing is left to fate. For each car we put on to the ice, we keep one in reserve. And similar to our Track and Test Days drivers feel reassured with this turnkey formula: they merely have to sign up. Once on site the only other thing they need to do is start the car. Curbstone looks after the rest.”

General Manager Ludovic Colman (left) and Event and Logistics Coordinator Frederique Jonckheere (right) together with a Curbstone Crew member at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in 2016 while checking the good functioning of the pit lane coordination. The Curbstone Crew is composed by fixed members and they follow the entire season, wherever it requires.

From left, General Manager Ludovic Colman with Founder Curbstone Patrick Van Glabeke. Patrick is an important figure for Curbstone and his support represents a big pillar for the company.

ARRIVE & DRIVE MAKE IT EASY FOR YOURSELF TAKE OUR CAR

The ideal solution for experienced drivers who do not have their own GT or racing car, or own one but do not wish to take it to the track. With Curbstone ARRIVE & DRIVE, you can hire a Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Lamborghini, etc., for one day. You arrive, climb into the car and the finest F1 and GT Racing circuits are open to you. You can rent a car for GT-Sport or GT-Race sessions. Everything is included for your drive, with your mount in showroom condition: 315 km of driving, tyres (new set upon request), fuel, service crew, excess insurance. No hassle, just arrive and drive under the best Curbstone conditions.

‘ Te helmet hides feelings that cannot be understood.’

AVAILABLE CARS

GT-SPORT

• Abarth AC

• Fun Cup EVO 3

• BMW M2

• BMW M4

• BMW M3 V8 Schirmer

• Audi A1 Silhouette

• Ginetta G50 GT4

• Lotus 3-11

• Porsche 911 GT3 RS

GT-RACE

• BMW M4 GT4

• Ferrari 458 Challenge

• Ferrari 488 Challenge

• Ginetta G55 GT4

• Lamborghini Huracán

Super Trofeo EVO 3

• Porsche 718 Cup

• Porsche 911 GT3 Cup

• Porsche Cayman GT4

‘Once something is a passion, the motivation is there.’

AYRTON SENNA

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER

CURBSTONE INCENTIVES

Impress your clients, business contacts, VIPs and friends with a tailor-made racing event. Rely on 9 years of Curbstone experience to ensure everything is perfectly organised according to your wishes. The biggest GT Racing platform of Europe is ready to host you and your selected guests. Offer them a track experience they won’t forget for a long time and offer them the best in hospitality, catering and ambiance.

OUR OFFER

PIT BOX AND F1 LOGE Pit box

We can build and tailor your Pit Box for your event day. Your own zone at the track. Perfect to host your business relations, co-workers, VIP’s, …

F1 Loge

Match Business with Pleasure in an unparalleled way. Choose the F1 Loge for your sales and marketing seminars. Curbstone provides the full set-up with a premium catering service in a private lunche area, infotainment infrastructure and evening cocktails or dinner possibilities.

Tailored catering

From healthy breakfast in the morning, quality drinks and snacks during the day, through to a typical Italian lunch or French gastronomy for an evening event in the F1 loges. Together with our long-time partner Global Cuisine, we can offer you the best in tailored catering.

RACING EXPERIENCES

Race cars on Track

Offer your guests an experience behind the wheel of a VW Beetle during the VW Fun Cup or in a GT3 car. This is driving under the best conditions, at the best circuits and in a most pleasant atmosphere.

Karting Grand Prix

Who doesn’t enjoy karting? With Curbstone you can offer your co-workers and business relations a great challenge at the official Spa-Francorchamps karting circuit.

Race simulator

Offer your guests the best in Sim Driving with the latest racing simulators. Go flat out in a Sim Racing Challenge or focus on Driver Training.

Circuit E-Tour

Take a tour around the track with our Track Experts on E-bikes. Look back on the track’s history and get a glimpse of the future with this E-mobility experience

WWW.CURBSTONE.NET/EN/OFFERING/CURBSTONE-INCENTIVES

Race team PJ RACING doing a sponsor incentive during a Curbstone Track and Test Day at the circuit of Spa-Francorchamps in 2017.

CURBSTONE SPECIAL REQUESTS

You have a group of people you want to bring together on the track for a special driving experience? Or you want to bring very rare or special cars to the track, maybe your own exclusive cars? Curbstone can create an experience that perfectly meets your wishes. Feel free to ask should you have something exceptional in mind.

EVENTS FOR GT OR RACE CLUBS

Get in touch with Curbstone to define the perfect event for your GT or Racing Club. Curbstone will take full care of the event’s management, logistics, insurance and catering to make the experience for all your drivers the real track pleasure it should be. You will benefit from dedicated track time, picture and film services, and much more… We will be happy to provide any extra services upon request, so start planning your personalised Curbstone event right now!

TESTS FOR F1 CARS AND OTHER RARE CARS

Curbstone offers the organization of tailored events for your F1 or collectors cars. Enjoy your car to the fullest, while we take care of safety, noise, your exclusivity on the track and any other requirements you might have. The event is always scheduled around a Curbstone Track & Test Day, so we can optimise the logistics and services.

TEST YOUR SPECIAL CARS

We offer private car collectors the possibility to test their cars during our events, with tailored track time and services. Do you own a special racing car, classic, supercar or hyper car you want to test under the best conditions? Feel free to contact us.

MARKETING RELATED EVENTS

Are you a marketing, sales or PR manager looking to organise an event for your brand or launch a specific car? We can organise this for you at one of the circuits where we will be present. This includes: Curbstone hospitality, technical assistance, catering, ideal conditions for a photo or film shoot, and more… We see no limit to helping you realize your ambitious goals.

Lotus T125 on track during a private Curbstone F1TM test session at Circuit Paul Ricard in 2017.

Ferrari LaFerrari during a Curbstone Track and Test Day in Spa-Francorchamps for a Super Car Rallye, Rallye Germania.

ITALIANS DO IT BETTER

RAF VLEUGELS BRONZE DRIVER, OWNER & MANAGER FOREST RACING

Raf Vleugels was there from the very beginning. During the 2008-2009 period, prior to Curbstone being founded, he became acquainted with Patrick Van Glabeke at track days. At that time Raf was manager of Scuderia FMA, an organisation linked to the Antwerp Ferrari and Maserati dealership of the same name. “Many FMA customers, Ferrari owners, felt restricted on public roads. Hence, we started organising track days together with British and German clubs. That’s how I got to meet Patrick Van Glabeke. He was the archetypical driver who was later to organise track days with Curbstone; a GT car owner able to drive to the track and enjoy everything he would not be capable of doing on public roads.”

‘ I’m an Italophile. Te architecture, the nature, the cuisine, the people and of course the sports cars. For me, when it comes to design and performance Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati top the board.’

FROM SCUDERIA TO FOREST

Those track days weren’t always very well organised. Patrick and Raf felt they were missing something.

“British organisations undoubtedly hold their charm, but their work is somewhat amateurish. On the other hand, their German counterparts were more profcient, seeing they made the distinction between a GT and a racing car. However, from an organisational level it was far from perfect. A pity because when one hosts a public with exclusive GT cars, they do expect a certain level of standing.” The outcome is known, Patrick founded Curbstone and, from the outset, Raf as a participant supported him with Scuderia FMA. Later the Scuderia FMA drivers moved over to Forest Racing, which to this day is present at all Curbstone’s Track and Test Days.

“Here we opt for comfort. We arrive at the circuit and are able to hit the track immediately. Once out of our cars we can relax and the catering is always top notch. The smooth support and hospitality provided is to say the least quite unique.”

Over recent years Curbstone evolved. In the beginning it was mainly owners of GT cars wanting to drive on tracks in and outside of Belgium, always under the best conditions. “Today you see an important fow of racing drivers from Curbstone keen on European GT racing series for example. This is why it’s ideal to have separate sessions on Track and Test Days. People, who for example, buy a new McLaren and look to exploring its potential on the track can do this during the GT-Sport sessions with,

Owner Forest Racing Raf Vleugels at the wheel of his Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo preparing for the upcoming GT-Race session during a Curbstone Track and Test Day in Spa-Francorchamps.

Raf Vleugels advising one of his race friends before going on track.

should they so wish a renowned coach. On the other hand, experienced racing drivers are able to test their cars under the best conditions during the GT-Race sessions.”

PLEASURE AND BUSINESS

For Raf a Curbstone Track and Test Day represents more than track driving. It is also a marketing and communication tool at a professional level. “I’m active in wealth management. I regularly invite customers and their co-workers at a Curbstone Track and Test Day. It always surpasses their expectations. The cars, the track, the whole atmosphere and of course a drive in a GT or race car with myself at the wheel – they just love it. It’s a bit of a Dream Factory. From a personal angle experiencing what a Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche 911 GT3 can produce on the track is something special. We also see car manufacturers such as BMW regularly inviting their clients to Curbstone events. Here they have the opportunity to become acquainted with a BMW M4 which they would be unable to experience anywhere else.”

Raf is of course also a passionate Bronze Driver who in the frst instance wants to enjoy himself at Curbstone events. After a series of GT cars, he switched to a Porsche 911 GT 3 RS. Following that he raced with one of the frst Ferrari GT3’s and is now to be seen at the wheel of a Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo. “It’s a fantastic car, especially when you see what it can do for its price. On the Monza track it’s even one second faster than the Ferrari 488 GT3, thanks to its 630 bhp. It gives you an overwhelming feeling. And with its futuristic design it looks quite distinctive.” While Raf has been racing for some years at a competitive level he now does it mainly for pleasure – similar to most members of his Forest Racing.

LA BELLA MACCHINA

It’s difcult for him to part with some cars. He still owns the Ferrari 430 GT3. “It was Ferrari’s frst GT3 series. They only built 25 of these and I have N°11.” He also owns a Ferrari 308 GTS, a 512 BB and a Maranello 550. “With the front-mounted V12 it feels somewhat heavier than for example an F355 of that same period, but it’s still a very lively and powerful car with an awesome sound – a Ferrari thoroughbred.” In Raf’s eyes Italian sports cars are still the tops. “For starters I truly love the Italian culture. The architecture, the people, the cuisine, … and of course their sports cars. The design, the tradition and the passion: you don’t fnd this with any other makes. I have now visited Ferrari’s production facilities in Maranello six times. From the moment you step into the factory you can feel the passion for La Bella Macchina. Although I have to admit that I was also extremely impressed by a visit to the McLaren headquarters. Their professionalism and level of engineering and testing there … quite unbelievable.”

On the question of how he sees car culture and racing evolving, he hesitates for a moment. “To be honest I’m a bit worried. I remember a time when vibrant driving and the freedom of your own fast car was cultivated. Today I see another mentality. In general, there’s an anti-car culture in Belgium, in contrast for example with Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy. Governments also want to phase out ICE cars. They are already systematically being banned from cities. I cannot see this trend reverting in the near future. In a manner of speaking it’s good for an organisation such as Curbstone. The lesser the possibilities people have to enjoy their sports cars on public roads, the more they will want to hit the track. And it won’t disappear. Because it’s an addictive hobby. Once you acquire a taste for the track with a GT car, you will always want to return to it.”

WITH FAST FREDDY IN THE GT3

“One of our business partners at the time was Wilink, which cooperated with Rally champion Freddy Loix.

At some day we invited them at a Curbstone event. Freddy took my clients in an Abarth for a ride while I took him for a drive in the rain. I remember him being very impressed by the braking capabilities of the GT3. Afterwards he invited me for a drive in his WRC car which was equally impressive for me.”

THE ARCHITECT OF MODERN GT RACING

Over the past 25 years SRO has specialised in the promotion and organisation of motorsport series around the world.

Inextricably linked with GT racing’s revival in the early 1990’s, currently SRO predominantly promotes series that adhere to the successful GT3 and GT4 regulations. Indeed, these rules – a common framework allowing manufacturers, teams and drivers to compete equally with one another – have helped to establish SRO as the global leader in customer GT racing.

Today, SRO’s infuence and organisation can be seen around the world. Its fagship continues to be the European-based Blancpain GT Series which features both the Sprint and Endurance Cups. Its annual highlight remains the iconic Total 24 Hours of Spa

The same Pirelli tyres and Balance of Performance parameters governing the Blancpain GT Series have also been adopted in the United States by the Pirelli World Challenge (of which SRO is a shareholder), while SRO expanded its successful platform East in 2017 by establishing the Blancpain GT Series Asia

In addition, the world’s best GT races from all four corners of the globe are brought together under the Intercontinental GT Challenge. The 2018 edition features four events – the Total 24 Hours of Spa the inaugural Suzuka 10 Hours the California 8 Hours Laguna Seca Raceway and the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour

SRO is also strong domestically. The multiclass British GT Championship, over which it has presided since 2005, pairs GT3 with GT4 machinery. The FFSA French GT Championship, for many years run by SRO, returned to the fold in 2017, and was added to the existing GT4 European Series. GT4’s incredibly successful frst season in France provided SRO with the blueprint and

From left, Raf Vleugels and GT-Sport driver Filip Beeldens chatting in the box after a GT-Sport session during a Curbstone Track and Test Day.

‘SRO understands the important role amateurs play in GT racing’s global success and sustainability.’

confdence to expand the class’ European footprint further. Three new regional series to support the fourishing GT4 class are added in 2018: GT4 Nordic European Cup, GT4 Central European Cup and GT4 Belgium Cup.

In addition, SRO’s world-renowned Balance of Performance regulations are licensed by other series running GT3 and/or GT4 machinery, such as Super GT in Japan, the Australian GT Championship, the IMSA Weathertech Sportscar Championship in the USA, the ADAC GT Masters and the VLN in Germany and the China GT Championship. SRO works also closely with the FIA when organising its prestigious Macau FIA GT World Cup race.

While Macau caters solely for professional teams and drivers, SRO also understands the important role amateurs play in GT racing’s global success and sustainability. That is why it operates the SRO Race Centre by MMC – a high-level technical centre at Circuit Paul Ricard in southern France – and Curbstone Track Events, which provide the ultimate track driving opportunities on world-renowned circuits. Many of its clients have subsequently graduated to the Blancpain GT Sports Club, the frst competitive stepping stone towards gaining the confdence and racecraft required to compete in a Pro/Am environment.

SRO Motorsports Group is chaired by company founder and CEO Stephane Ratel and has ofces in London, Paris, Liège and Hong Kong. Its dedicated team of full-time and freelance staf work with the support of numerous national sporting authorities and sanctioning bodies to ofer teams, drivers and manufacturers the world’s best professional, Pro/Am and amateur GT racing platforms.

INTERCONTINENTAL GT CHALLENGE

With interest in GT racing growing all over the world, 2016 provided the perfect opportunity for SRO Motorsports Group to introduce the Intercontinental GT Challenge.

The Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour, Total 24 Hours of Spa and Sepang 12 Hours formed the calendar for the inaugural Intercontinental GT Challenge, the firstever global GT3 Series. This new concept is aimed at manufacturers, who are encouraged to use local teams to represent them in these leading GT3 races.

The first two seasons of the Intercontinental GT Challenge proved to be successful, with Audi conquering the Manufacturers’ title both in 2016 and 2017.

Laurens Vanthoor and Markus Winkelhock respectively took the Drivers’ titles in those years.

In 2017 the California 8 Hours at the fabulous Laguna Seca circuit was added to the calendar, and 2018 will see the introduction of the Suzuka 10 Hours as the Asian round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge.

The Intercontinental GT Challenge represents the highest achievement in long-distance GT racing. By uniting these iconic events in one series, the level of racing at each round will naturally increase, creating even greater interest among fans, sponsors, media, drivers and teams alike.

CONTACTS

Sophie Peyrat sophie@sro-motorsports.com www.intercontinentalgtchallenge.com

BLANCPAIN GT SERIES

Encouraged by the success of the Blancpain Endurance Series, which after its creation in 2011 quickly became the global reference for GT racing, world-renowned Swiss watch manufacture Blancpain and the SRO Motorsports Group decided at the end of 2013 to extend their partnership to the Blancpain Sprint Series. From 2015, teams and drivers were also given the opportunity to compete for an overall Blancpain GT Series title. Varied grids were the result, with a host of respected GT teams and drivers at the start of each race. The Blancpain GT Series also saw an influx of young and talented drivers, making it a worldwide benchmark in GT3 racing.

With both the Blancpain GT Series Sprint Cup and Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup now sharing the same driver categories and points system, the ten-round Blancpain GT Series season – comprising five sprint events and five endurance events – crowns the world’s most complete GT drivers.

A Blancpain GT Series Sprint Cup event consists of two races of one hour each, while the Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup races range from three-hour events through a 1000 km race to the season highlight of the Total 24 Hours of Spa, one of the world’s leading 24-hour races.

CONTACTS

Sophie Peyrat sophie@sro-motorsports.com www.blancpain-gt-series.com

GT4 SERIES

Launched in 2006 and property of SRO Motorsports Group, the GT4 format initially grew in stature within the Dutch championship as well as in the Germanybased VLN series under the SP10 moniker.

To date, 14 cars have been homologated for GT4 action – including the Aston Martin Vantage, KTM X-Bow GT4, Nissan 370Z GT4, Maserati GranTurismo MC GT4 and Porsche 911 (997) GT4, Mercedes GT4, BMW GT4 – with other models expected in the near future.

Comprising the existing GT4 European Series, the European Cup and FFSA French GT Championship, the newlook GT4 European Series is an overall structure of regional GT racing throughout Europe. Three new regional series to support the flourishing GT4 class are added in 2018: the GT4 Nordic European Cup, the GT4 Central European Cup and the GT4 Belgium Cup.

SRO has followed the same principles that have made high-profile championships like the Blancpain GT Series so successful,

namely reduced costs, technical fairness, dynamic races featuring professional and amateur racers, convenient locations, strong media coverage, and a friendly paddock atmosphere.

CONTACTS

GT4 European Series: Max Braams max@sro-motorsports.com

FFSA French GT Championship: Patrice Goueslard patrice@sro-motorsports.com

GT4 Central European Cup: Nina Pfiffner nina@sro-motorsports.com

GT4 Nordic European Cup: Edward Sandström info@edward.nu

GT4 Belgian Cup: Pascal Witmeur pascal@sro-motorsports.com www.gt4series.com

TOTAL 24 HOURS OF SPA

Run as part of SRO-promoted championships since 2001 when it first moved over to GT competition, the Total 24 Hours of Spa became in 2011 the centerpiece of the Blancpain Endurance Series, resulting in 60-car starting grids.

The Total 24 Hours of Spa remains the blue-chip event of the Blancpain GT Series, and its status was confirmed in 2016 when it was included in the new Intercontinental GT Challenge, the first truly global GT3 championship.

The Total 24 Hours of Spa is now one of the most popular races in world motorsport with over 60,000 fans attending the grueling contest. A supreme test of man and machine on the fabled Spa-Francorchamps circuit, the Total 24 Hours of Spa is much more than just a race – it is also a festival. People from across Europe swarm to the Ardennes forest for a unique racing and party experience where the latest GT technology mixes perfectly with the annual outdoor concert and a true carnival atmosphere.

CONTACTS

Sophie Peyrat sophie@sro-motorsports.com www.24hoursofspa.com

BLANCPAIN

GT SERIES ASIA

Launched in 2017, Blancpain GT Series Asia is based on the tried and tested British GT Championship format.

Blancpain GT Series Asia is a multi-class GT championship predominantly catering for GT3 and GT4 cars. GTC cars can also compete, as well as Invitational entries (at SRO’s discretion).

Each of the championship’s six race weekends feature two one-hour races, two 15-minute qualifying, and practice sessions. GT3 and GT4 cars compete on-track simultaneously but fight for their own class victory. There are overall GT3 and GT4 podium ceremonies, plus separate rostrums for GT3 Pro/Am and Am/Am. Points are awarded to the top-10 overall GT3 and GT4 finishers, plus those entered in Silver Cup, Pro/Am and Am/Am.

CONTACTS

Benjamin Franassovici benjamin@sro-motorsports.com www.blancpain-gt-series-asia.com

PIRELLI WORLD CHALLENGE

One of the most prominent North American auto racing series, managed by WC Vision in partnership with SRO. Each season consists of 10 rounds – 20 races per category, including Sprint (one driver per car) and SprintX (two drivers per car) for GT and GTS classes, as well as Touring Car Competition.

CONTACTS

Staci Langham slangham@wcvision.com www.world-challenge.com

BRITISH GT CHAMPIONSHIP

The British GT Championship is one of the world’s foremost domestic GT series presided by SRO. The Championship pairs GT3 and GT4 machinery. GT4’s arrival and subsequent expansion sees two classes running on the same track at once, an important aspect of GT competition that enables a driver to prepare for international endurance racing, while the option to also field GTC entries remains a possibility.

CONTACTS

Benjamin Franassovici

benjamin@sro-motorsports.com www.britishgt.com

BLANCPAIN GT SPORTS CLUB

Established in 2015, the Blancpain GT Sports Club offers Bronze drivers a chance to fight their peers for overall race wins aboard modern GT machinery while also enjoying an exclusive and friendly paddock atmosphere. This is an ideal stepping stone for gentlemen drivers new to high-end race cars, providing a bridge between club competition and professional-level racing in Europe and beyond. The Blancpain GT Sports Club acts as an official support championship to several Blancpain GT Series rounds.

CONTACTS

Maryon Kaczka maryon@sro-motorsports.com www.blancpainsportsclub.com

CURBSTONE TRACK EVENTS

Curbstone is the leading Track & Test Day organiser in Europe. It offers GT drivers, racing drivers and teams the ultimate opportunity to drive on world-renowned circuits. Curbstone offers a platform for enthusiasts who want to evolve from GT driving to racing classes like SRO’s Blancpain GT Sports Club.

DREAM LEGEND

WITH A LITTLE HELP OF ENZO FROM TO

CHRISTOPH ULRICH RACE DRIVER – OWNER PARABOLICA SPORTS

Christoph Ulrich is the owner of Swiss based Parabolica Sports. He’s always been a big devotee of GT racing and in the summer of 2015 acquired a Ferrari 458 GT2 from AF Corse. After just two tests he asked ‘how can I get into racing’?

A few months later he found himself on the grid at Misano with the Blancpain GT Sports Club competing in his first ever race.

Christoph met Patrick Van Glabeke right after he had acquired the F458 GT2. As from that moment he became a regular driver at the Curbstone Track and Test Days. “As a member of the AF Corse Racing team I was very impressed by the level of Curbstone’s professionalism. It’s a reliable organisation at an extremely high echelon and a very fair price. The staf are also highly professional and one has the feeling that they carry out more than merely their job; they also share the passion for racing. A further major advantage is the fact that Curbstone belongs to the SRO Organisation. It makes matters far easier.”

As a race driver Christoph is keen on the Track and Test Days concept, with a limited feld of participants and distinctive sessions for diferent cars and drivers. “For me

Track Days are test runs prior to an upcoming race. As such we’re testing tires, setups, etc. as lap times matter. You become easily frustrated when you are permanently stuck in trafc, however the fact that Curbstone slots GT and race cars into diferent sessions solves that issue.

As most of the professional race teams choose Curbstone Track and Test Days to carry out their testing it confrms the right approach!”

When it comes to a racing style Christoph prefers perfect, clean racing avoiding any contacts. However, this is not always possible.

“Sometimes you have to go fat out. I’m always pushing, and going hard over the curbs is not an issue. It all depends on the car and race situation. There are moments when you need to be aggressive and others where you need to remain calm. The 458 I race demands to be driven hard, whereas the 488 is totally diferent. Although I’m a disciplined driver I have to say I have always been a big fan of such drivers as Colin McRae, Jean Alesi and Nigel Mansell, who all drove more on the wild side and on the edge.”

Today Christoph drives a Ferrari 488 GT3 with no plans of switching to another make soon. “I’m 100% Ferrarista. For me there has never been a question and as long as I can, I will race with Ferrari. Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and other manufacturers might also produce pretty good cars but racing with Ferrari is a way of life! In addition, I’m in love with Italy and there is nothing more of an Italian moment in life than driving a Ferrari.” All the street and racing cars in his collection feature the prancing horse on the bonnet. These are all more recent cars but he also has some classic Ferraris on his bucket list. “Unfortunately, they’re currently not in my price league,” he laughs.

‘Enzo Ferrari once said: ‘if you can dream it, you can do it.’ Today I’m living the dream’

Christoph’s Ferrarri 458 GT3 during the Curbstone Test Day in Hungaroring in 2017, two weeks before winning the Blancpain GT Sports Club race.

GT driver Christoph Ulrich winning the 2017 Blancpain GT Sports Club Hungaroring race together with (left) Patrick Van Glabeke on second and (right) Stephen Earle on third place.

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GTS + GTR Round 14

13/06

GTS + GTR Round 15 Thursday 14/06

Round 15+ Friday 15/06

+ GTR Round 17

Round 18

+ GTR Round 19

28/07

GTS + GTR Round 20 Wednesday 08/08

GTS + GTR Round 21 & 22

+ GTR Round 23

+ GTR Round 24

- Thu 15>16/08

22/08

GTR Round 25 Monday 24/09

GTS + GTR Round 26 Friday 05/10

GTS + GTR Round 27 Thursday 18/10