Overview:
I have received alot of emails from people asking how they can get started taking their car to the track, so i deceided to make this little webpage. This is just my own opinion, im sure some people have different ideas.

This is a work in progress, ill add more sections as i have time. If you think im wrong in some places, or have additional advice let me know.

- Philosophy -

Why are you going to the track?

Are you going just for fun? To drive around with your friends? Improve your street driving? Planning to work up to club racing? All of these are fine reasons to head out to the track, but keep a few things in mind.

Most importantly, if your just starting, leave your ego at home. You will be slow, no matter how much hp your car has, how long you have been driving, or how well you drive the twisties near your house. Accept that before you show up, if you dont, you wont just put yourself in danger - but everyone else out on the track with you.

Pay attention to your instructor, and do what he/she says. Let me repeat, pay attention! They are there to help you out, and keep you safe. They are taking a large risk driving around at high speed with a new driver, look at it from their point of view. If you follow their instructions and pay attention i guarentee you will vastly improve your driving ability the first day at the track, and will have ALOT of fun.

One last thing, dont worry about going fast. Let me repeat, dont worry about going fast. You will be busy enough following the directions of the instructor, trying to remember what was said in the drivers meeting, and staying in control. If you practice driving smoothly before trying to go fast, you will be able to work out any bad habits and at the same time increase your speed. You wont feel very fast, but you will start blowing by (ofcourse, after they wave you by :))people on the track who are fighting the car and jabbing at the wheel and pedals.

Dont be afraid to ask questions! Ask anyone.. the guy pitting next to you, your instructor.. that guy with the REALLY fast viper or porsche.. i have yet to run into somone who didnt like helping out others at the track (sometimes they will talk your ear off, you have been warned!)

Have fun! If your not having fun, something is wrong. Talk to your instructor or one of the people organizing the event and find out whats wrong.

- Car Setup -
Keep it stock!

- Safety Gear -
SA2000 helmet.

- Before you go -
Car inspection.

- Maintenance -
Air pressure.

- When you get there -
Remove loose items.

- Etiquette -
Dont park in an empty spot when you see somone elses gear there!

- Schools/Clubs in CA -
NASA / Open-Track TracQuest TCRA Alpha Romeo Club of Southern California FastLane Racing School