Autocross happens rain or shine, and you’re going to be outside pretty much all day, so some preparation goes a long way to making sure you have a great day:
Preparing Your Self
- Clothing–Bring clothing appropriate to whatever the forecast is showing. Having it and not needing it is better than being uncomfortable if you do need it.
- Water–We generally have water onsite but bring some backup fluids in case we run out. Dehydration can be a real drag.
- Food–Everyone needs food. Bring snacks to keep you sharp and happy all day long. 98% of the time, we break for lunch, but sometimes you might have to dash out to get lunch while the event is still rolling.
- Sun protection–can take many forms, including sunscreen, clothing, and umbrellas. Also, bring a hat that will stay on your head even when you’re running. Not only will it keep the sun off your head, but it will save those who suffer unsightly helmet head.
- Helmets–Speaking of protection, you’ll need an approved helmet.
- Course Maps–Course maps are posted several days before the event, both on the website and on the event’s pages on MotorsportReg.com. We recommend you print a copy, have it on your smartphone, or whatever else works for you. It’s a good general reference and is indispensable when building the course.
- Attitude–is the biggest determination of how your first day is going to go. Yes, it’s a competition, but there is no prize money, no glory. No matter how you finish, it’s about fun, making friends, and enjoying your car.
Preparing Your Car
- Loose Items in Your Car–You will be asking your car to corner and brake pretty hard during your runs. That means that anything loose inside the car is going to be flying around, and no one needs random items hitting them or getting in the way when they’re trying to put down a scorching time. That’s why it’s obligatory that the passenger compartment be free of all loose items, including your floor mats. Loose items in the trunk will certainly make a racket, but they could also be damaged or cause damage to your car. Bottom line: Leave everything you don’t need at home. Child seats can be left in place.
- Car Number–When you register for an autocross event, you’ll select your car’s number. This number needs to be clearly displayed on both sides of your car. Masking tape in contrasting colors is normally the easiest way to do this. The other alternative is shoe polish on your rear-side windows.
- Mechanically Fit–Your car needs to be mechanically sound. To ensure that participants are aware of their obligations in this regard and take the matter seriously, we require each car to be inspected by one of our techs.
Final Note on Preparation: As we mentioned, your car is going to be emptied during the day, so a container to protect your clothing, food, etc. is a great idea. A simple plastic/rubber storage bin with a lid and a small cooler is usually the perfect gear for the job.