Essential Tips for Beginners

Here are some things everyone looking to start their own journey into autocross or motorsports in general should keep in mind.

It doesn't matter what you're driving: I hear a lot of people say things like "my car isn't fast", or "my car isn't ready". One thing you need to keep in mind is that in the sport of Autocross, you're essentially competeing against yourself, and improving your driving habits and skill is what the ultimate goal is. Most of the time, it is much easier to improve with a "slower" car. Learning the basics of car control and car manipulation is integral in improving your personal skill as a driver, and that is achieved much easier with fewer variables at play.

Slow and smooth is fast: I'm pretty sure that every single person that attends an autocross event for the first time makes the mistake of over-driving, I know I did! It is very important to remember the saying that "Slow and smooth is fast". What this refers to is that we have a tendacy to speed up everything when attempting to make fast times, that is not limited to just our actual speed/acceleration. Hand movements, throttle and braking inputs, as well as entering and exit speed from corners are all contributing factors to this. When you are starting off, take the course nice and slow and gradually pick up the pace as you get comfortable with how your particular car reacts to particular inputs. Always stay within the limits of your car, and your ability. You will be surprised at how much time you will shave!

Ask Away: Do not be afraid to ask questions! Most of us that have been involved in the sport for some time really enjoy helping and seeing people improve their skills behind the wheel. Don't ever be afraid to ask your fellow racers for advice, trust me, we all like to help everyone!

Safety first: At the end of the day, we always want to make sure that everyone had a great time, and goes home safe and sound. Be mindful of yourself and course workers while on course, and if you ever lose control of your vehicle don't try to be a hero and "save" it. If you get into a hairy situation your run is probably going to be slower, and its always better to give it another go instead of creating a situation where an accident can occur.

Show up early: Showing up early is something I still do to this day. Not only does it give you time to relax before the first car is sent off, but it also gives you time to commune with your fellow racers, get an extra course walk or two in, and scope out your fellow competitors. Course walking is key to understanding different ways to attack the course, and the more you can soak in each layout, the faster you will be shaving time!

Watch and learn: If you have the oppurtunity, take a ride with other people with more experience. There have been many times that I've been stuck at a certain time on a course, and after a ride with a pal I've found extra time to shave from seeing the course from a different perspective/angle of attack.

Have fun: This is a no brainer! The whole reason we do this stuff is to have a good time. Don't let the competition become more than that, and always remember we're just out here to have fun with cars!