Special Report: How to Become an Auto Racer (Part 1)
Many drivers, who have ever owned or even driven a car, experience a thrill when driving fast or aggressively. Although doing this will result in severe criminal action, driving fast and aggressively is the only way to drive on a racetrack.
The thrill of speeding, from a certain adrenaline rush, is what drives normal enthusiasts to take up the hobby of track racing. One thing that a driver should remember is to
never race your vehicle in public areas, including roads and parking areas. Doing so will put other innocent pedestrians and property at risk, not to mention the consequences.
In California, suspected street racers have their vehicles confiscated and crushed into scrap metal in front of the offender, and may be filmed to upload to YouTube to deter other violators. Besides this, speeders, aggressive drivers, street racers and
even those attending an illegal race are prosecuted, resulting in fines, jail time, and having their cars impounded, if not crushed. As long as enthusiasts save the racing for the tracks, then there is no problem, whatsoever.
Before one even steps onto a race track, they should first check their local directory for a racetrack that offers speed and safety. One that has a driving school is an added bonus, since driving on a track is much more dangerous as compared to public roads.
A larger, more modern track is preferable, since it will be well maintained and offer the enthusiast the thrill that they are seeking. After selecting the track, the next step for an aspiring racer is to collect the equipment required by the track, and also
some other items that will be useful.
The first item required, obviously, is a car to race. This will be the first stepping stone into the world of track racing. Since safety always comes first, a SNELL approved helmet is also required. The helmet should meet the regulations of the track and
fit comfortably while still offering maximum view of the track. Most tracks also require the driver’s vehicle to have visible numbers. Purchasing magnetic numbers or just using masking tape is sufficient. All tracks and roads also require the driver to have
a valid driver’s license. Shoes that are smooth-soled and completely covering are also best to provide maximum grip on the pedals and keep them from being wedged onto the driver’s shoes. Long-sleeved cotton shirts and jeans are preferred to keep the driver
cool and comfortable. A racing neck collar, to protect the wearer in case of collision, is also recommended, but not required. A day at the track is long and drivers tend to get hungry and thirsty. So unless water and food is available at the track, it is
also recommended to bring along. Lastly, a tire pressure gauge and synthetic oil is also a must have for the track.
Now that the driver has all of the required gear, the next step is to join a Driver’s Education event. In this event, instructors will sit in the car with the driver and teach them the basics about track racing, such as hand signals, safety procedures, rules,
and regulations. If the driver’s vehicle has a racing heritage such as Porsche, Audi, BMW, or Mazda, the best thing to do is to join that club. Porsche owners should join Porsche Club of America, those with BMW’s preferably should try for BMW Car Club of America,
Audi drivers should look for Audi Club North America, and Mazda Club US is best for Mazda enthusiasts. Aside from Driver’s Education events, drivers should also opt for classroom time, in which they can familiarize themselves with rules, regulations, and most
importantly, hand signals.
Two steps towards becoming a race enthusiast have been completed, but this is only the beginning. Racing poses a significant danger, as drivers have been seriously injured and killed on the race track. Racing should be treated as a serious sport, and without
education, no driver has any right to go fast or even step into the pit. In the next segment, the path to race car driving will be continued, offering a clear step by step explanation to curious drivers.
Tags: