For verification of the issues caused by that wonky controller*, I tried a different one (Logitech Dual-Shock) which has much better potentiometers, and immediately did a 21:15. Down side is having to use a single, very small joystick for both gas and brake, which rapidly causes hand cramps (why I went the other way for the race).
*More complete story: it's actually fine for use with a lot of other games. I guess they mask the jaggy input somehow. For C$13, tax in, good value even if not suitable for GPL.
I also tried the hovering section names for the race, and I
really liked that. Impressively well done. :bravo: Would a different colour/contrast help the legibility, Clive? Might be worth asking for, as I can see it helping others, too.
Best GPL track ever, hands down. Too bad it sucks for actually racing.