First, to view the autocross results, videos and pictures from the LOCAL events click here.
This info was hijacked from the San Francisco Region of the SCCA. I didn't want to have to re-invent the wheel. Hope they don't mind!
back to main page....	Page updated Tuesday, April 14, 2009
All You Ever Want to Know About Autocrossing and Were Afraid to Ask... What is an Autocross event? Page 1 Are there other names for Autocross? Page 1 Who autocrosses? Page 1 Why autocross? Page 1 How much does it cost? Page 1 How do I join in the fun? Page 1 Can I watch for free? Can I bring a friend? Page 2 Do I have to join some club? Page 2 Do I need an SCCA license? Page 2 What kind of car do I need? Page 2 What are some guidelines of etiquette that I should follow? Page 2 What do I need to bring? Page 2 What kind of helmet do I need? Page 2 Who will I be competing against? Page 2 What are the different classes of competition? Page 2 How should I prepare my car for a race? Page 3 What do I do when I get there? Page 3 What is a Fun Run? Page 4 What is a tech inspection? Page 4 What can I expect at a tech inspection? Page 4 Where can I learn more about autocross? Page 4 Where and when can I find an autocross event? Page 4
What is an Autocross event? Autocross is a form of motorsport that anybody, in any type of well maintained car, can participate in. It is an ideal way to get a taste of motorsports competiton, or just improve your driving skills and have fun. It can be as serious as you want to make it, though, like any form of racing. Autocross events are generally held in parking lots or other large, open asphalt or concrete areas. A race course is laid out using orange traffic cones. The course is only ever used for a single event, the next autocross that you attend will have a different course, and different challenges. Cars drive through the course one at a time, competing against the clock for the fastest time. A competitor gets only a limited number of runs on the course, usually 3 or 4. No one is allowed a "practice run" through the course, though everyone is allowed to walk the course before the competition runs start in order to try and determine the best approach to that course. Learning how to best approach a course that no one has ever seen before is a key skill in autocross. The runs typically only last 45-60 seconds, and the speeds do not often exceed 55 mph (most of the time you'll be going 30-45), but it may be the most intense 45-60 seconds you've ever experienced in a car. If you don't believe me, ask for a ride with one of the fast guys (or ladies) at your next autocross. Most people are amazed at what a talented driver in a hurry can do in the confines of a parking lot. It does not matter what you drive, since the cars are split up into different classes depending on their performance potential in autocross. Your Yugo will not be racing against any Corvettes. If you run the fastest time of all the cars in your class, you win a trophy, and the right to abuse your competitors until the next time. If you run the slowest time (and you probably will a few times when you're starting), everyone will be happy to help with advice and encouragement. back to content...   Are there other names for Autocross? Solo II is the term the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) uses to refer to SCCA-sanctioned autocross events.  Gymkhana was the term used in much of the USA during the sixties. Now the term "gymkhana" as used in the USA usually connotes a gimmick event wherein drivers have to do odd things.  Autoslalom is the term used in Canada.     Who autocrosses? Most autocrossers are driving/racing enthusiasts who enjoy motorsports competition. In fact, a large percentage of participants do not even own a "racecar"! They race the car they drive on the street. Some autocrossers are serious road race drivers who want to practice technique. Most are like you and me: laypeople with an itch for speed! back to content... Why autocross? Autocross is an inexpensive, safe way to experience racing. It helps you discover your car's capabilities and limitations, making you a better, safer driver on the road. And it develops your own driving ability. Many would-be race drivers use it as a jump point into the sport of road racing. But probably the greatest thrill of autocross is the challenge of beating your own time. It's fun! back to content... How much does it cost? Costs vary widely around the country. Typical cost for a single day event is probably ten or twenty dollars. The sponsoring club has expenses like site rental and insurance. Costs for insurance are not insignificant in lawsuit-happy America. Keeping safe courses and speeds is important to the survival of the sport. back to content... How do I join in the fun? It costs almost nothing to start autocrossing, and since other cars are not on the course with you, there is almost no risk of damage to your car. To get started, just go to your nearest event. Ask questions, and if you brought your car with you, you might even be able to register and race right then and there! To find out where your nearest event is, subscribe to the mailing list, and post a message with the subject line "Hometown, State Events?" You should get at least one lead. back to content...
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