| All times are
Approximate |
|
| Registration & Tech |
7:30AM-9:00AM |
MANDATORY Drivers Meeting |
9:30AM |
| First Runs Start |
10:00AM |
| Trophies at conclusion of runs |
4:30 PM |
| Registration Information |
|
The Pennington Field site
is a stadium parking lot that has a concrete
surface. Courses lap times on this site average
between 40 and 60 seconds. 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
as there are apartments next to this site.
All cars are required to pass a
technical inspection, (tech). The inspectors will
be making sure that loose items inside the car
are removed. That items in the truck are secured.
The battery must be securely mounted. Tire
condition with no cord showing or wheel bearings
with excessive play. All lug nuts attached and wheel hub caps removed. Brake
fluid level and operation. Seat belts 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.