Good write up Rob
One thing that's not been mentioned enough IMHO though is " Ring Etiquette ". Apart form the obvious vigilance, pulling over to the Right for faster machinery and watching all your mirrors like a hawk, IMHO one of the best thing to do is to leave ones "EGO" behind in the Hotel room before venturing out onto the RING and give it TOTAL, UTTER respect when driving around it. NEVER, EVER get too cocky and think you know it all (it's usually the moment when accidents happen) Even after 50 laps you're only getting to the basic grips of the place, which is constantly changing (as is it's weather) Every year they change road surface, sometimes in the most unexpected places. NEVER, EVER race others ( U can be reported for dangerous driving and arrested by the local Police who DON'T see the funny side of it). If a well driven MK2 Golf GTi shuts U down... Don't be intimidated, let him or her Go, they've probably done more laps around Green Hell then U've had hot diners. Leave/give plenty of room for Bikers and let them do their thing... Cars & Bikes just don't mix very well @ the Ring. Any computer game freaks/geeks, forget you best PS2 Ring times and start a fresh as if you've never been 'round before. DON'T ever let the Red mist fill you cabin. It'll be detrimental to your driving and could lead to an acident... and if U spot someone driving dangerously/carelessly, DON'T be shy to report it to the Main Ring office, U'll be doing everyone a favor. If you're ever unfortunate to have a mechanical brake down or be involved in an accident, however small, DO NOT attempt to drive on (even if U think U can) Get recovery and have your car inspected for any damage or fluid leaks before venturing back onto the Ring. Whatever U do at the Ring, do it with TOTAL respect for the place and others around U. It's one serious bit of tarmac that sadly takes too many lives, every year.
Apologies for sounding like a merchant of gloom but we all want to enjoy the Ring and be able go home in one piece at the end of the day with great memories. I'm no "Ring King" but I've been enjoying it now for nearly 6 years / 500+ laps, abiding by the above rules.