Autocross Introduction
Autocross is a timed, solo competition - there is no wheel to wheel racing involved, as cars are sent out one at a time, or at least spaced out so that they should not come into any contact with each other. Autocross courses are laid out with various types of technical turns, straights, and slaloms. Some courses allow for highway speeds in certain sections of the course if the area is large enough to do so safely. The top speed at most autocross courses is around 55 to 60 MPH.
Autocross courses are laid out using plastic traffic cones that won't hurt your car if they are bumped or hit. However, a two- second time penalty per cone will be charged for disturbing a cone. Meaning, knocking them outside of their chalk-outlined base position. Directional cones (those laying down ) hold no penalty if hit.
Autocross is a GREAT way to learn about your car and how to get the maximum performance out of it. There is probably no better way to learn braking, throttle control, clutch control, steering, and smoothness than participating in an autocross event. It is also a great way to enjoy your car and get a better feel for all that it can do. It’s challenging in different ways than a road course; turns come at you faster and can give you the feeling of driving a Formula I at speed. At Road Atlanta there are 12 turns, on an AX course there might be 20. Here you will find that smoothness counts. While your actual speed will not be that fast, turns come at you faster than on a race course. Knowing your line and setting up for the next turn is an art to master to become a good autocross driver and will make you both a better road course driver and street driver. In general, any safe, street legal vehicle can compete without any significant modifications, but Peachstate Region has different classes for different levels of car modification. Any driver with a valid driver's license, and who signs the Waiver of Liability may participate in the autocross. Drivers under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the Waiver of Liability for Minors (linked below). No racing license or prior experience is required.
You will need a helmet; any “M” rated helmet is acceptable, but consider purchasing a SNELL SA rated helmet, as that is the minimum for PCA and SCCA Driver Education events (and you may want to try those some day). We offer a selection of loaner helmets to those who don’t have one or forget to bring their own. Most drivers prefer to bring their own for fit and hygiene reasons. You will also need closed toe shoes. The entry fee will be $40 for PCA members, $45 for non-members. Passengers, are allowed on the course, but must sign the Waiver of Liability at registration and wear the wrist band showing they have done so. If you're new to autocross, Peachstate offers a beginner’s Autocross class in March or April. This includes classroom as well as driving exercises. You are also welcome to come out during the year even if you haven’t been through the school. We have qualified instructors who are happy to ride along with you for some or all of your runs. They will help you understand the course and offer guidance and suggestions to help you become a better driver.
New this year:
Championship Autocross – The Championship AX will be the last event of the year. All entrants are welcome to participate. You must run 4 events during the course of the year to establish your handicap and qualify for the Championship. You do not have to qualify for the Championship Event to participate in the AX. The Championship AX is going to be run based on a handicap system. The handicap will work to level the playing field for all participants. A 912 could beat a GT3 RS if the driver has a good run during the Championship event. An additional fee will be charged for this event to cover participant gifts and awards.
Season Pass – Buy a“SEASON PASS” and run 7 events for the price of 6 events. A season pass is ONLY $240.00. (does not include Rennfest) Visitors that purchase a SEASON PASS may do so at the member rate of $240.00. If an event is administratively cancelled a prorated refund will be made to the participant. Cancellations due to weather and acts of God are not applicable for refund.
See the “Checklist for Autocrossers” in this section for more information on how to prepare and what to bring to an autocross event. See you at the next AX.
Gus Franke,
Autocross Chair
Peachstate Region
Porsche Club of America
