Autocross Update
Steve Kidd, Autocross Chair
We get these questions time and time again so this information is worth repeating. Our goal is to increase Porsche/ PCA member participation at our GCR autocross (AX) events. We have run a number of AX events since the Covid-19 outbreak and follow PCA guidelines to insure proper protocols are in place, including but not limited to Covid waivers, social distancing, masks required when not driving, extra sanitation measures, & reduction /elimination of touch points. An autocross is a competitive driving event, in which a car is timed over a course laid out on a paved area (often a large parking lot) and is marked by short, soft road pylons (cones). An autocross is skill challenging, but is always educational and social. No passing is allowed and the cars are to be spread out on the course so as to maintain a safe distance between them. A safety chair will evaluate the course prior to the start of the event. In addition, the course designer will designate worker/safety stations near the course to keep a close eye on each car as it progresses thru the course. Speeds are generally 35-65 MPH and mostly use 2nd gear. Safety is always a top priority. To address the specific questions about the PCA/GCR Autocross events, we’ve put together a simple Q and A. Should you need more information please feel free to contact Steve or Dottie Kidd at 954-946-3196 Q Is Autocrossing dangerous or will it hurt my car? A. While there are inherent dangers to any type of motor sport, Autocrossing is considered one of the safest. At GCR, we pride ourselves on our excellent safety record and keep safety as a top priority. The traffic cones used to mark the course are soft rubber and will not damage your car. Q. Do I need a helmet? A. Yes, however we do have some loaner helmets available for 1st timers. Those needing a helmet are strongly encouraged to bring a helmet sock or liner, Q .Do I need to get my car Tech inspected prior to the event, or do anything special? A . We inspect your car at the AutoX site. Our tech inspection is not as comprehensive as one for a drivers education, however the basics include, but are not limited to, cleaning everything out of your car, no bald tires, proper tire inflation and lug nut torquing, no fluid leaks and firm brake pedal and no excessive steering play. Basically the newer, low mileage cars that are properly maintained should not need any extra work. Generally, older cars may receive a more thorough review . Q. When do events usually start and finish? A. Our events start around 7:30am and typically run till about 4:00pm. We typically have 30-70 Participants at each event. At most events each competitor gets 5-15 runs, with 8 runs being the usual Q. What about noise and safety? A. All vehicles are safety inspected prior to the event and excessive noise is not permitted. With Covid precautions in place a self tech form is in place to eliminate touch points. Q. What about rest room facilities? Food / Water / alcohol ? A. A porta-let is typically delivered to the site, or some sites, like Sebring ,have real restrooms. Competitors are encouraged to bring their own beverage or food. Water may be available, however with COVID precautions,communal coolers will not be available. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited during the event by anyone on site Q. What about instruction for beginners? A. Glad you asked! Newcomers are encouraged to get involved and instruction is provided at each event by some of our National Champion instructors. Here’s some of the details about our AutoX instruction that is offered at each event to 1st timers which is designed to get more 1st timers out to the Autox site and watch, participate, and hopefully become regular competitors. In a nut shell, here’s how it works. Potential newbies are identified during the preregistration process. In most cases, e-mails or phone calls are exchanged to help take the edge off for newcomers. A special run group/class is available for new comers called our S/N class for Stock Novice. This means no significant past motor sport experience and a completely stock car. Before the driver meeting, all newcomers meet with the event chair for a special meeting / course walk to make sure all rules are understood. Prior to your 1st run, an instructor is assigned to ride along and assist. In most cases a student will get input from multiple instructors. Plan on a busy day...everyone that runs must also work the course. Work assignments typically involve manning 1 of 4-6 safety stations and re-setting cones that are knocked over & calling in penalties to timing and scoring.
Tentative AX schedule for the remainder of Q1 & 2 Event #3 in the works...A Return to BBT Possible dates are 4/24 or 4/25 Event #4 5/22/2021 @ Sebring: Very similar to event #1or a surprise location...tentative: Please see pictures and sample course map on the next page
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Die Porsche
Kassette | Apr 2021
