I really want to AutoX...Where do I begin?

[toddt]

Hi all--

Well, I've had the ACR for a year now, and it has been a great year, no doubt...

I would LOVE to start autocrossing though, but it seems so complex, I don't know where to begin...

I'm in the eastbay of the SF bay area (pleasanton), and I'm really not interested in going up to sears point. It's too far, and I'm a family guy. I don't want to spend a whole day away, and that seems like what sears point would require with the near 2 hour commute one way.

I just want to drive in, finish 10 seconds behind the Neons, and go home.

Is there any hope of finding an autocross club near me? Does anyone know about one?

I guess its even time for me to join the VCA.

Thanks in advance,

 

[Y2K5SRT]

Todd -

Join the VCA first and foremost. When you do, you will find that there are lots of opportunities like this in your area. For example, there is a Viper autocross scheduled right there in Pleasanton in July. Read about it here. The Northern California VCA is one of the most active and respected clubs in the world, you DEFINITELY want to hook up with those guys and see what's happening!

Another source is the SCCA, who is also active in your region and you can read about it here. They generally have several autocross events in your area. You can also look up other performance car clubs such as Porsche. For example, this Porsche Club of America chapter has autocross schools in your area. Might be fun to hook up with them.

Hope this helps, and be sure to join the VCA ASAP!

Chris

 

[toddt]

Okay, Chris-- you've convinced me. I'm printing out the application as I type this...

I'm going to take a look at these local races you mentioned, and probably will have some more questions..

Thanks!

 

[MichaelP]

Todd there is a lot more involved than just driving in racing and going out.

The fees are low like $20 so that means everyone has to volunteer. So you will end up watching and setting up cones, cleaning up etc.

You will also want to be there for the walk through. This is where you learn the course by actually walking and memorizing it.

I would plan on it taking you a whole day.

Or you could just find a big empty parking lot and have at it all by yourself.

If I have anything wrong I am sure someone will correct me.

 

[varanus]

toddt

I live in pleasanton and used to auto x with the porsche club. It will be at least a half day as you will work the course while 1 group runs and then your group runs while they work. The closest auto X's I know of is sacto and down by monterey.
There is an auto X type of event going on at DeAnza college this month you may want to check out.
I am going to start doing a little auto x probably this summer myself. Give me an excuse to get new tires after these quickly wear out.