Be an Autocross Racer, Gain Driving Skills

San Diego Sportscar Enthusiasts Experience Racing the Safe Way

Nov 23, 2009 Mistie Shaw

What a San Diego area novice can expect when autocross racing, from the time he or she enters Qualcomm Stadium's parking lot until the fun's over and the grin's fading.

In San Diego, as in cities across the country, autocross racing devotees who are members of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) participate in regularly scheduled racing events. Although they are called races, the competitive events focus on a driver's skill navigating turns, staying on course, using the appropriate speed, paying attention to myriad details and doing it all safely.

Any licensed driver may participate in the car of his or her choice. Promoted through the SCCA, Solo2's goal is to promote and encourage low cost local and regional autocross events. More information about the specifics of local events may be found at Free Weekend Fun for Autocross Spectators in San Diego.

Checklist for Wannabee Racers who Want to Experience Racing in San Diego

Veteran racers recommend eating a good breakfast prior to racing. The bursts of adrenaline that accompany autocross runs deplete energy quickly. First timers should plan to arrive at the "track" by 7:00 AM. This is what a new driver can expect on his or her first day:

Register - Prepaid online reservations are required unless the racing slots have not been filled (which almost never happens). Registration is usually held under a tent near the center of the pit area. Blank forms are on the tables. A current driver’s license and SCCA membership card must be shown. Annual SCCA memberships cost $35 however one weekend only memberships are available on site for $15.
Prep car - Everything not attached or locked down, including spare tires and hubcaps should be removed. A racing number and initials signifying the car class must be taped to both sides of the car. Paper numbers and letters are available from the tech area. (Cost $1) Most racers increase tire pressure to improve handling.
Tech inspection - Really a safety check which is performed in a coned off area near the side of the pit area. Although other items are inspected, the primary areas of concern are tire suitablity, brakes, battery stability, and approved helmet availability. For drivers who do not own one, helmets, in a selection of sizes, are available at the trailer. There is no cost to use one, but a driver’s license or credit card must be left to insure the headgear is returned.
Know the course - Walking the course before the race is not just important to racing, it’s a community tradition. This is the time the old guys tell the newbies all their secrets. It’s important for a driver to walk the same “line” that he or she will drive during the race. The more aggressive, obsessive or competitive drivers often walk a course several times. It is said that a driver should be able to close their eyes and picture the course, but very few are able to do so.
Work assignment - Course work is not optional, all racers must help work. One of the ways that the San Diego Solo2 Club keeps costs down is there are no paid course workers. Most members also join a local club; and, the local clubs take turns organizing and hosting the events. The host club provides the course design, set-up and take-down, but actually running the events takes everyone. Racing time is divided into “runs”. For each run someone races, one run must be worked; or, the work time equals run (race) time.

The Autox Experience: Wait, Wait, GO!

Finally, it is time to race. All of the cars participating in one run queue up in the staging area. When the person in charge gives the word, the driver moves to the next waiting area, where cars are lined up waiting to start one-by-one. Finally, the driver moves to the starting line. With the drop of the starting flag, revved engines scream while tires squeal going into the first turn. Although cars are started one at a time, usually three cars are running the course at any given moment. After crossing the finish line, another worker will hand the driver a “sticky” with his or her time and cone count written on it.

Novice racers are encouraged to consult an instructor, provided at no additional cost. Instructors are allowed to ride along with a newbie and provide the equivalent of intensive driving lessons. Some of the competitors and driving instructors are professional racers but most are work-week desk jockeys with a need for speed.

The Adrenalin Rush is Fading but the Memories of Autocross Racing Will Last

When the competition runs end, if time and weather conditions permit, fun runs may be allowed. For a minor charge, drivers are allowed to run the course carrying passengers. Spectators often enjoy this opportunity to try racing before deciding if they want to race. Before leaving the parking lot, race numbers and class initials must be removed from cars driven home.

As members of the host club scurry around to pack up the cones and monitoring gear, knots of drivers stand around talking about the merits of the course and teasing each other about the days' events. For many people two days of racing are more than sufficient to sweep the work-induced worry lines from their faces. Grins abound and challenges for the next event are shouted across the quickly emptying pit area.

The copyright of the article Be an Autocross Racer, Gain Driving Skills in Auto Racing is owned by Mistie Shaw. Permission to republish Be an Autocross Racer, Gain Driving Skills in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Experience Racing Autocross and Gain Driving Skill