So you want to go racing and don’t know where to start. We’ll there are a few options that are very affordable and easy to get started in.
SCCA Solo2 or Autocross
The first and perhaps easiest to get into is SCCA Solo2 or autocross competition. Some might say that Solo2 isn’t really racing, it’s more of a timed event on a parking lot however I dare you to say that to any serious Solo2 racer. Solo2 events really focus on the individual driver’s skill more than the car preparation. Don’t get us wrong, your car must be setup properly, but with so many classes to run in, you can run everything from a fully modified road racing Corvette to a stock Toyota Camery.
Typical courses are setup on large parking lots or airport runways. The course is designated by traffic cones setup in such a way that there is very little chance to damage your car should you overcook a corner or spin out. Speeds are usually no faster than 60 mph however the turns are quick and abundant. There are combinations of slaloms, straits, hairpin turns, and gates that make the course fun and exciting. You get penalized two seconds for every cone that you knock over. So even if you are 3 seconds faster than the rest of your class, knocking over two cones will put you out of the first place finish.
Car setup for fully race prepped cars could take you months to get right. However car setup for the stock classes is a bit more simple. All you really need to do is put a little bit more air pressure in your tires and go racing! Actually, the winners in the stock classes usually do a bit more than just tire pressure. In the stock class, you are able to change out your shocks, put on D.O.T. legal race tires, front sway bar, and even a roll cage. However you must use all stock mounting points for the shocks and your tires must be of the same size as stock.
What do I need to bring…do I need any special safety equipment? All you really need to bring is you, your car, and $30-$50 for the entry fee. Most clubs can supply you with a loaner helmet. You don’t need gloves, driving suites, special race tires, or 5 point harnesses. All you need to do is pass a basic safety inspection, borrow a helmet and you are ready to go!
