So I autocrossed for the first time...

[paulmeisterpk]

I took the '85 Vette out and raced it yesterday in the A stock class. I've never raced a car before, but I didn't do too bad. I took third in class, and got beat by a Mitsu Evo and a WRX Sti. That was the most fun I've ever had in a car before, If you havent done it, you have to try it. Serously.

Paul

 

[C4Tom]

Hey Paul,

I've been searching the 'net and reading just about everything I find on SCCA and SOLO2. There is a SOLO2 race here in Indy the end of July and I plan to attend.

How were the nerves on an auto-x newbie?? It seems that all the SCCA literature says how friendly everyone is to the novice... did you find this to be true?

Congrats on the 3rd place!

 

[Doug 87L98]

Hey Tom,


The SCCA lit. about how friendly everyone is, is correct. I've been to just 2 events in the Philly Region, and I could not have met a nicer group of people. Ask anyone a question and you get good honest information.

You will have a great time.

I just read your other post. You will not make a fool out of yourself. The support you will find is great. Don't be hesitent to ask questions.

 

[C4Tom]

Thanks Doug. That cools my nerves a bit.

I hate being the new guy.

 

[DRTH VTR]

It seems that all the SCCA literature says how friendly everyone is to the novice... did you find this to be true?

Tom-

It has been my experience that the other competitors are for the most part very helpful and friendly. There is sure to be someone who takes the competition too seriously, but the people are very nice. I rode in an experienced driver's prepared Z06 for two runs, and had an experienced driver ride with me for two runs. Riding with another person is very helpful. You can see first-hand how to approach the course. Go early and walk the course with an experienced driver, so that he/she can explain each part of the track to you. Have fun!

Last time I was out, I was 3rd out of 19 in Novice division.

 

[yellow_2002_germany]

We do autocross here at Aviano. To be sure, the events are not quite SCCA quality with electronic timing and all, but we manage to have a good time nonetheless. We have a couple of drivers who do have some racing experience who are more than happy to help out.

It also gives some of the younger people on base a place to let out their steam safely.

The fun thing is to see first time drivers gain experience and get faster as the day progresses.

 

[C4Tom]

Hey Randy,

What do you do in the AF? I was AMMO for 5 years back in the early 80's.
Stationed in the UK at RAF Upper Heyford, we had a few TDY's to Aviano, which I wasn't able to go... wife and kids.

Tom

 

[C4Tom]

Hey Jim... thanks for the info.

It's starting to look like I will have a good time.

 

[paulmeisterpk]

The guys at the autocross were really cool, anything I asked, they gave me an honest answer. I was really nervous my first run, but i just went about 75% and learned the course a little better before I started to push harder.

Walk the track a bunch and figure out the course beforehand, and pick your lines. Where I went, they asked who was new, and gave a short walkthrough on the lines you should be running and the basics of racing. That helped a lot. I recommend talking to whoever you can and get tips from them.