Track Insights: Circuit Track
Featuring Pro Driver Nicky Hays
This month’s Track Insights spotlights Southern California pro driver Nicky Hays, who recently spent time testing here on Buttonwillow’s Circuit Track. Hays, a 24-year-old racer from Huntington Beach with starts in Lamborghini Super Trofeo and upcoming season in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, shared his thoughts and insights on what makes the new layout both demanding and rewarding.
“The Circuit gives us something in SoCal where you have a really high-end facility that’s central to both NorCal and SoCal,” says Hays. “It’s something new and fresh, and it’s really good for pro racing in terms of testing and development. It’s something we definitely needed.”
The Challenges ⏱️
When asked what makes the Circuit Track particularly tricky, Hays pointed to the opening and mid-lap sections.
“Turn 1 is tricky. It’s one of those corners that makes you always think you could have braked later – until you miss the apex,” he explains. “Turn 8 is a tricky double apex that gets really tight at the end. You really have to commit to the entry.”
Pro Tip 💡
For drivers looking to test at Buttonwillow, Hays emphasizes precision and rhythm to his fellow pros.
“At the Circuit, I’d tell someone to focus on keeping your roll speed up,” he advises.
The Fun Factor 🎯
Hays also noted that the Circuit Track’s design rewards smooth, confident driving.
“I like the cambered corners. Turn 5 is definitely the highlight of the track,” he explains.
Circuit vs Classic ⚖️
Having logged laps on both layouts, Hays was quick to compare the feel and flow of each.
“The Circuit is perfectly smooth and fresh surface means it has more grip than the Classic Track,” Hays goes on to say. “There are also more mid- to high-speed sweeping corners at the Circuit.”
As Buttonwillow continues to evolve with new amenities and expanded facilities, Hays says he’s excited to see what’s next.
“I’m a big fan,” he says. “It’s something we really needed for pro-level testing and development here in SoCal.”
Driver Perspective & Experience
“The content in this article is based on the personal opinions and experiences of the driver featured. Every vehicle, whether car or motorcycle, behaves differently based on setup, conditions, and rider/driver capability. The techniques, preferences, and perspectives shared here are possibilities to consider and not universal truths. Results may vary based on experience level and equipment, and drivers should always apply proper safety practices.”
With ongoing upgrades including new garages, paved RV spots, a restaurant, viewing center, and a future motorsports museum, the transformation of The Circuit Track into a world class racetrack venue is already underway. We want to thank Nicky for his time and responses and providing us with great feedback on our new Circuit Track. We hope to see him and all of our readers at one of the many upcoming events as well as our final Open Track Day on November 14th!