
How do I get into racing? It’s a question many of us have asked, and a question many of us have been asked.
Author Jack Baruth put his thoughts on the subject down in a recent Road & Track article. He said, “If you live in an area with a strong SCCA Solo program, there is absolutely no reason why you should not spend at least one season as an autocrosser. The chances of you damaging your car are very low, and the chances of you significantly improving your understanding of vehicle dynamics are very good. Most regions run a Novice PAX class nowadays, which uses an adjustment factor to put Corvettes and Miatas on common ground, so you'll have real competition from your very first run on course.
“As a committed autocrosser, you'll also learn the rhythms and habits of a motorsports competitor. You will get used to the early mornings and the constant checking of tire pressure. If you are not mechanically inclined, you will have the chance to learn how to perform simple tasks on your own car.
“If you have a late-model car in decent shape, you can get through a Solo season for under a thousand bucks. Even seasoned National competitors often spend less than $10,000 in a given year, including travel.”
A bunch of great insight in provided in the article, titled “The Two Best Ways to Break Into Motorsports on a Budget.” Check it out if you want to get into motorsports or need answers for those asking how to get into motorsports.