DFW, TX Members: Solo Auto-X event @ TMS (8-31-08) Options

[GotToyota]

There is an SCCA Solo Auto-X event going on at Texas Motor Speedway August 31st. You can find info about it right here:

http://www.autocross.com/tr/modules/content/index.php?id=17

All times are Approximate
Registration & Tech 7:30AM-8:30AM (Mandatory)
Drivers Meeting 9:00AM
First Runs Start 9:30AM
Trophies at conclusion of runs 4:30 PM
Registration Information

The TMS Bus Lot event uses the parking lot ouside of the speedway next to hwy 114. The course is a smooth sealed asphalt surface. Cones will be placed on the lot to make a challenging course to drive. Most events have 4 runs per driver. The Texas Region uses all the National approved classes and the supplemental classes also. Quite working mufflers are required.

PRE-PREP - Before leaving home
Clean your car out thoroughly, this includes glove boxes and pockets.

Your car will need to pass a TECH (Safety) inspection before you are allowed to compete. Your battery must be properly secured (not sliding around in its tray), all tires must have a measurable amount of tread (no cord showing) and the car can not be leaking fluids.

If you have a Helmet bring if it is a SNELL SA95 or M95 or better rating. If you don't have a helmet, don't worry, a few loaners are available.

You will be in the sun/rain for the full day, so come prepared for it. Comfortable clothes and covered shoes are a must.

Food is usually available near the sites we frequent, however you will probably want to pack a lunch and plenty of water.

Highly suggested items include
Lunch (of your choice)
Water and other liquids (No Alcohol! This includes spectators.)
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat (of your choice)
Umbrella (good for sun as well as rain)
Tire pressure gage


A DAY WITH THE SCCA
A suggested arrival time is between 7:30 and 8:30. The course is normally ready to walk between 8:30 and 9:00.

REGISTRATION
Find the Registration table near the timing trailer. Let them know this is your first time out, and they will help you through the waivers and worker assignments. Remember to wear and display the arm band they provide. If you need to make any class or number changes this is the time to do it. Don't just change your number or class without telling the registration people. That can hold up the event if you make a change and not tell anyone.


IN THE PITS
Once in your pit space you need to prepared the car for inspection. Floor mats, hub caps and all loose items must be removed. Be prepared to store your items from wind and rain. Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Ask them any questions you have. People really do help each other at autocrosses.

TECH INSPECTION
After you have checked in at registration locate the Tech Inspection area. This is normally a number of cars in line and it is fairly apparent as to where this is located. If not ask around the pits and someone should be able to point it out. Put your car in line and wait for the Tech Inspector to check your car (and helmet if you have one). Remember that you normally run tire pressures higher than you do on the street. Ask the tech inspector for a starting pressure for your car. If you see someone else at the event with the same type of car ask them what pressures they run. Most people will tell you. Remember to have your car numbers and class on the car before you go to tech. The numbers and class should be visible from a good distance and of contrasting color. Don't use duct tape. Blue painters trim tape works well and generally does not leave adhesive on the paint.

COURSE WALKS
For the first timer it can appear to be a "sea of cones". As you walk, put yourself in your car and visualize what it would look like from behind the wheel. When walking the course, watch others and ask lots of questions from those around you. Most will tell you their ideas or will tell you they don't know. You don't have to know where every cone is. Just a few of the key important cones. These are the ones in the center of a corner or the entrance and exit of a corner. Remember the number of paces between cones in a slalom. This will help you judge speed from event to event. A 19 pace slalom is tight and hard to drive for large cars. Something that is 24 paces or more is quicker and easier. Generally a tighter line is the fastest way around a corner.

NOVICE WALK THROUGH
For the first timer, A MUST. Listen for the announcement for Novis Walk Thru. Gather at the start line when they announce it. The walk Thru is normally given by a National Champion or National Trophy winner. Listen carefully to what these folks have to say. Number one suggestion for the Novice walk through; Try and walk near the front. This makes it easier to hear and see what they are talking about.

DRIVER'S MEETING
The mandatory Driver's Meeting is scheduled for 9:30, this is required! They will make specific information event announcements. Such as where Grid is located, all safety announcements, identify key personnel, and any changes to the planned event operations.

RUN/WORK GROUPS
The event is broken into heats. Usually four to five depending on the number of entrants for the day. You are required to work one heat the exception is in the case of you working Registration, Tech. or course design or setup. An example of a run work designation would be. Your class is assigned to Run 2nd/Work 4th. This means you will drive in the second heat and work during the fourth heat.

For more details on what to bring to an event, classes and what to expect at an autocross see the our FAQ and the Typical Day Overview.

Cost is $25 if you're an SCCA member, and $40 for non-members. I'd like to see how many of you guys would like to attend this. I think I'll be ready to go in the Celica, should be a blast. If you want to go, add your name to the list, and what you car you will bring.

Link for those that want to register early: http://www.autocross.com/tr/modules/content/index.php?id=3

1. GotToyota (Matt, Celica)
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-Matt