I signed up for a single day at Autobahn weeks ago before I ever did a track day. I was not sure if this would be something I would like so I did not want to commit a lot of money to the days. After the first day I was instantly hooked! I rode Graatan last week and was bumped to Int at the end of the day. With that said, I am signed up for ACC this weekend as a novice rider for Sunday. I recently picked up Sat and Mon in the Int group. What I like about the N level is being able to ride the track at a comfortable pace to learn it and develop RP's before picking up the pace. My question is this: Since I have not ridden this track and new to the Int group, can I get a coach to follow for a while for Sat and pick up my RP's so not to slow down or be a problem on the track for the other Int riders? I tend to be slow for a few sessions until I am comfortable with the flow of the track and have a good understanding of my RP's. And now that I am an in the Int group, can I still ride in N? I don't mind riding there since the track is new. Or even better, can I ride N on Sat-Sun then ride Int on Monday? That's what I should have asked from the start!
I would immediately bring this up to Nick Amelio at the track Saturday morning and he will have a proper plan for your situation. Our staff is there to ensure your weekend is fun and safe. They will take care of you and a coach will analyze your riding ability accordingly. We want you in the group you are both comfortable in and within your skill level.
I asked this same question, just experienced doing my first day at Barber. Every coach said, don't go back. You won't move forward if you do. At the riders meeting they said for the I group, we will take 2 laps and no one is to pass the coach's. After that the 6 foot rule is in effect. Those two slow laps at least gave me a chance to see the track before things opened up. I passed one rider who was ON the bike, several who ran off the track (so I don't count those 4) Hold the line they show you and let the faster riders pass you. No worries. If you still feel out of sorts find a coach and ask for a little more follow the leader. Road America next month I will experience this again, like you with a little apprehension. But after Barber feel a lot better about it.