AUTOCROSS

Click here for the results of the July 10, 2010 Autocross

Autocross (AX) is an entry level competitive driving event around a course defined by traffic cones.  Each lap is individually timed for each driver.  There is no "wheel-to-wheel" competition, and speeds seldom exceed 60 mph; speeds through the turns will be between 25 and 40 mph.  A typical course is about 45 seconds for one lap.

AX gives you the opportunity to develop your own skill set, as well as learn the limits of your vehicle in a safe and controlled environment.  The emphasis is on car control and driver inputs.  Combined with a Performance Driving School, your confidence and ability will improve markedly.

Beginners are always welcome, and there are no pre-requisites other than arriving with a vehicle in safe working condition.   The PCA AX rules allow for any licensed driver age 16 or older to participate in AX.  Helmets meeting a Snell 2000 rating or newer are required and each club has loaner helmets available. Also, each car will undergo a technical inspection at the course. Before each event begins, there is a guided Course Walk that takes you step by step through the driving line and explains how to navigate through the cones.  This is especially helpful for first-timers and those that want a second perspective.

There are many couples or parent/child combos that take turns driving the family car on the course.  It’s a great way to create a little friendly competition.  Additionally, there are many women solo drivers that are more than happy to give pointers to new comers of the female persuasion, so don't let that fact put you off participating - besides, you know you are the better driver!

You owe it to yourself to try Autocross.  It is a great entry level, competitive event that requires little car prep, time or money.  We hope to see you soon. For more information, please contact Matthew Kucharski.

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For more information . . .

Click this link for our Autocross Chairman's take on "Why Autocross."

Click this link to access the PCA Autocross page and click this link for the PCA Autocross Guidelines.

(Note that PCA member log-in may be required to access PCA references.)

Click here for a video of a run at the Houston Police Academy.

Click here for video clips of a PCA Autocross event in California.

Click the buttons below for clips from Porsche Parade AX events.

Click here for some photos of Porsches at a recent Houston event.

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Event Schedule and Track Information

Generally, Autocross is held at one of two facilities - Gulf Greyhound Park, which is also the location for SCCA autocross events, or the Houston Police Academy, which is also the venue for BMW Club events.

Click here for directions to AutoCross venues.

Click here for course maps for the SCCA Autocross events at Gulf Greyhound Park. Click here for maps of courses at the Houston Police Academy (BMW events).

The following is the general daily schedule for each facility.

There will be 6-8 competition runs and the event will usually conclude by 3:00pm.

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Preparation and Registration

Determine your PCA AX Class.  For BMW Club select PCA.  For SCCA, you will have to consult the SCCA Class Rules.

Register for an LSR AX event. There is a limit of 80 entries (a limited number of onsite entries may be available). Registration closes at 12 noon on the Friday or Saturday before the event) - The cost is $25 for BMW and PCA members $30 for all others

Register for an SCCA or BMW AX event.  We reciprocate membership pricing for BMW events.  Select the appropriate host from the drop-down menu.

Obtain a permanent AX number, if you do not have one.  This is a city-wide list and will apply to all Houston events.

View a list of permanently assigned AX numbers.

Note: For PCA events, all drivers must wear helmets meeting the Snell M2000 or SA2000 or later standard in PCA sanctioned Autocross events. The SCCA or BMW standards may be different. Check the rules on their websites.

Also for PCA events, all cars must have a Technical Inspection.

Any Questions? Contact Matt Kucharski, the Autocross Chairman.

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Resources

The following books are recommended for all levels of Autocross participants.

SECRETS OF SOLO RACING Expert Techniques for Autocross & Time Trials Henry A. Watts An excellent book for people wishing to improve their general driving techniques and their competitive driving skills.  Also a complete introduction to solo racing.	WINNING AUTOCROSS TECHNIQUES Ross Bentley Bentley addresses all aspects of autocross from safety equipment to basic car setup. His book teaches you how to choose the correct race line for your car and driving style and add to your skills by applying techniques such as heel-toe downshifting and visualization.	HOW TO AUTOCROSS Andrew Howe How to Autocross covers everything you need to know to get behind the wheel and start autocrossing. It covers basic modifications such as tire pressures, alignment, and dampers, to more advanced modifications that go beyond the stock classes. Because autocross is a test of driver skill, there is a heavy emphasis on driving and car control, with coverage on accelerating, braking, weight transfer, shifting, corners, slaloms, and finding that perfect line. Information is also included on car classes, driver schools, data logging, how events are typically run, and how to find events in your area.

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