So, You Want To Be a Road Racer
Bill Tapper
A few hints on where to start.
First, consider where will you get a race car:
Build one.
Buy one.
Rent one.
Building a car is a long and expensive process, probably best left to the experienced racer. Buying a good used race car is great if you are sure racing is for you, and long term this is most likely the most cost effective alternative. Renting a car is the best way to focus your attention on learning how to drive without being concerned about auto mechanics. This may be the most expensive alternative, especially if you ding the car.
Second, consider what path you will follow to obtain an SCCA drivers license.
Attend two SCCA sponsored driver's schools.
Attend a professional driver’s school plus an SCCA school.
Attend a professional driver’s school only.
The SCCA schools are the most common path for new drivers, however, you must provide a car and race gear (no small commitment if you aren’t sure racing is your bag).
I personally recommend that you attend a professional school that provides you with the car and all the gear. You just arrive and drive. Upon completion of some of these schools you may apply immediately for an SCCA license. If you go to one of these schools and decide racing is for you, I strongly recommend that you also attend at least one of the SCCA schools. The professional school's strength is teaching you the art of driving a race car. The SCCA school will teach you the ropes of SCCA Club Racing. The other major advantage of going to a professional school first is that you may decide racing is not for you. At that point all you are out is the tuition. If you think you can’t afford the tuition, then you most likely can’t afford to campaign a race car.
Third, where can I learn more about being a road race driver? Attend the Land O'Lakes Region of SCCA spring open house and talk to road racing representatives. Visit the SCCA website on road racing. Call Jim Griggs Jr. at (612) 824-2070 and request a mentor. Read George Anderson's book titled Winning, a Race Driver’s Handbook. Attend a road race on Memorial Day or Labor Day weekend at Brainerd International Raceway and talk to some of the drivers.
Copyright 1999, Land O'Lakes Region.
Last revised: March 5, 1999