Hi, Matt. Welcome to the forum, I've answered your questions below. If you haven't already it would be a good idea to read the document labeled "Your First Autocross" which is in
our Documents section. Let me know if you have anymore questions. See you out there!
First question, what time should I show up? The schedule says registration starts at 9.
Show up some time before registration closes. You will need to take care of registration, tech and a course walk before 10:30. 9am sounds like a good time. Many people get there as early as 8.
Should I come early for any reason? (changing tires, look at course, etc.)
Walking the course several times is a good idea. If you need to change tires or clean out your car, you'll need to do that as well.
What will the schedule for the day be? (registration, course walk, lunch, start of runs, etc.)
You need to take care of registration, tech and your course walking before the 10:30 driver's meeting. We try to start running at RIR at 11am. There is no specified lunch break. We usually wrap up around 4.
Is there anything I will have to do? (work course, work grid)
We usually have 2-3 heats. You drive one heat and you work another. Being new, you'll likely be assigned to work the course. If we have 3 heats, you have one heat free to spectate or relax.
How many runs will I get?
Typically between 4 and 6. If we get done early we usually see if anyone wants to do additional fun runs. We usually sell 2-3 additional runs for $5.
What if it rains?
You learn a lot more about car control than if it was dry out
We won't stop the event unless there is lightning.
Is there anything I should bring? (food & drinks, umbrella, chairs, etc.)
You can bring whatever you like. I recommend food, water, sunscreen and whatever tools you need.
What kinda of safety/legal restrictions are there?
Your car has to be roadworthy (it's a pretty low bar) and we make sure two cars aren't going to occupy the same track space while running. You need to wear a helmet, we have loaners available. You need a seatbelt and your battery needs to be tied down.
What if I crash?
I hope you just hit a couple of cones. You typically need to be doing something way wrong to do any real damage.
Can I take pictures/video?
Yes to both. Restrictions are that you can't do this while you're working the course. If you want to take pictures of other cars from somewhere in the course area, you need to find someone to be your spotter. You can take pictures/videos from the sidelines with no spotter.
What do I need to do for car camera systems?
Some kind of mount (to a headrest, rollbar, windshield, exterior body panel) is required. We don't allow passengers to carry the camera.
Will I need a helmet?
Yes, we have loaners that you can borrow.
