how to memorize autocross course

by Tania Abbott Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago 10 min read

Some tips to try to help you memorize: (1) redraw the map onto a separate piece of paper; (2) walk it as many times as possible, as fast as possible; (3) stand at some point on the course (e.g., the start) and look out at the next section as you visualize the driving line through that section of the course over and over again; (4) close your eyes and imagine driving through the course; (5) make a video of the course during the walk-through; and (6) get a camera mount and video the course on your first run to watch afterward.

Some tips to try to help you memorize: (1) redraw the map onto a separate piece of paper; (2) walk it as many times as possible, as fast as possible; (3) stand at some point on the course (e.g., the start) and look out at the next section as you visualize the driving line through that section of the course over and ...Feb 8, 2018

Full Answer

Is autocross a good way to learn to drive?

The Complete Autocrosser's Manual Optimizing an autocross course This is where we put it all of our line selection rules together so define a system we can use to decode any autocross course. You will learn how to identify which cones to be close to and which ones to be away from, and more important.

What should I know before going to an autocross race?

Sep 19, 2012 · Go with an experienced friend, if possible, and compare your ideas with theirs. Take your time, try to look at each corner as you want to approach it, and get a general picture of the overall course. Traffic cones, often called "pylons" in autocross, are used to mark out the autocross course.

Is autocross a sport?

Mar 21, 2022 · 4) Check the Weather. Since you’ll be outside for a substantial portion of the day, you’ll want to make sure you check the weather so you can dress appropriately for the conditions. Autocross runs rain or shine. Grab some sunscreen or a raincoat depending on what Mother Nature has in store.

How do I get Started in autocross?

Jan 28, 2019 · Designing interesting and balanced autocross courses. In this video, we will go over what drivers expect from national level autocross courses, and what they DON’T want, as well as cover the parameters and constraints we have to take into account. We’ll spend the bulk of our time talking about how to create a balanced course, and I’ll ...

What do the cones mean in autocross?

Traffic cones, often called "pylons" in autocross, are used to mark out the autocross course. In a slalom, a cone on its side indicates that you are expected to go past the standing cone on the opposite side. Each cone is outlined in chalk. You can touch a cone as long as you don't knock it completely out of its box.Sep 19, 2012

How many runs is an autocross?

In an autocross, you do not get a practice run, so the more familiar you are with the course, the better your initial run will be. You will get three runs, sometimes more. Generally the number of runs is announced at the driver's meeting before the event begins.

How much does SCCA autocross cost?

between $25 and $45

How much does autocrossing cost? Prices for entry fees vary across the United States but most regional events will cost between $25 and $45 to enter.

Is autocross hard on your car?

DON'T WORRY ABOUT YOUR CAR

Autocross is far more hardcore than you can imagine, but at the same time it's not very rough on your vehicle. If it's in reasonably good shape it'll do fine. Don't worry if the tires are normal all-season models or if your car is bone stock. It will be fine!Mar 18, 2020

Does autocross run in the rain?

Autocross in the rain is different; the car will transition from having (nearly) maximum grip to completely 'losing it' at the blink of an eye. It happens quickly without warning and it happens maybe 25 or more times each run of the course. Sometimes in different spots around the course from run-to-run.Oct 26, 2020

What is Porsche autocross?

AutoX (Autocross)

It emphasizes precise car control in a fun, low-cost, friendly and safe competition. Learn and rapidly refine advanced driving skills and techniques in the non-threatening environment of a course marked by soft traffic cones in a large parking lot or similar setting.

What should I bring to an autocross event?

After signing up for your first autocross event, it's a good idea to take inventory of what you'll need to bring to it. Technically, all you need is a good working car, a helmet, your driver's license, and money for the entry fee.Mar 30, 2021

How long are autocross events?

Autocross courses are typically one to two kilometres long and tend to place demands on car handling and driver skill rather than on engine power and outright speed.

How do you start an autocross event?

If you're not sure where to start, here are some tips to help you get started.

Find Your Location. You can set up an autocross event anywhere that there is sufficient flat pavement that's not already populated by other cars. ...
Set Up Your Course. ...
Plan Your Day. ...
Don't Forget Paperwork.

Sep 22, 2017

Can you win money in autocross?

This is a significant increase from the 2019 season, which awarded the season-long prize on a $600/$400/$200 basis. Individual event Super Challenge payouts have also increased to $1,000 for a win, $500 for runner-up, and $250 for third. Again, this is a significant change, as a win in 2019 paid $300.Feb 19, 2020

What is Pax in autocross?

PAX: Stands for Professional Autocross. The PAX system had a method of scoring cars together from a wide variety of classes by applying a multiplier to their times.

What is the most raced car?

MX-5 Miata

It's also no surprise that the beloved MX-5 Miata is the most-raced car in the world. In fact, the fastest growing racing class in the U.S. is the SCCA's Spec Miata class, with over 2,500 cars.

What you need

Driver's License: Unless you’re entering one of the Karting classes, you will need a current driver's license to enter an SCCA Solo event. Bring it with you to show the people working registration you’re good to go.

How to Participate

Find an event: Below this description of steps will be an application to help you find your local SCCA Regions and events. Put in your zip code, find local Regions, look at the schedules, and choose an event to attend.

How to get faster in a car?

Don’t modify anything on your car before you begin. You’re learning to drive all over again. Don’t enhance the car, enhance you. You’re relearning the car and its capabilities, tuning yourself to make you faster. 2. Find an autocrossing club. SCCA, Porsche, BMW, whatever.

Can you modify your car before you start driving?

Don’t modify anything on your car before you begin. You’re learning to drive all over again. Don’t enhance the car, enhance you. You’re relearning the car and its capabilities, tuning yourself to make you faster.

Do you start out fast in autocross?

Nobody starts out fast on their first autocross day, even if they have prior experience on a race track. Autocross requires a unique set of skills to make the car dance, and the fastest way around a course isn’t always the standard racing line.

Is it safe to drive an autocross?

Autocross is very safe. Most courses are set up to avoid obstacles such as light poles and curbs in parking lots. Collisions are extremely rare and happen at low speeds, resulting in minimal damage. Course workers wear orange vests for visibility and stand well clear of the drivers’ paths.

What is autocross racing?

Autocross is an organized sport where drivers navigate around tight, technical courses of traffic cones as fast as possible. An autocross course could be set up in a parking lot, on a race track, or on a closed road. Events are usually timed, and drivers are awarded points based on their class placement with respect to other drivers.

What are some examples of coursework duties?

Some examples of coursework duties are working the radio, picking up cones, recording times, or starting drivers. Working the course can actually be a lot of fun.

Can you autocross a car?

You can autocross almost any vehicle; it doesn’t even have to be a car. Some people bring trucks, crossover SUVs, and even minivans to the event! Motorcycles are typically not allowed. Some club rules prohibit any vehicle that is taller than it is wide to reduce the risk of rollover accidents.

Do you need to spend money on autocross cars?

There are excellent autocross cars for any racing class or budget. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on a car to have a great time and improve your skills as a driver. If you’re looking for a sporty vehicle to enjoy on an autocross course, here are some ideas to get you started.

Which Mazda is the most raced car in the world?

The Mazda Miata is the most raced car in the world for a reason. Its light weight, chassis balance, and sublime handling make it the perfect autocross vehicle. In fact, you are likely to see more Miatas on course than any other model.

The Setup

Before we got behind the wheel, our instructors gave us a peek at what the course layout would be. It was incredibly tight and low speed, with really only two sections to get up to a decent clip and have to brake hard at the end of. A short slalom was thrown in, as was a stop box that required a good grasp of braking.

Storming Into the Course

After my first run or two, my instructors Adam Andretti (yep, of that family) and Manon gave me some praise for the times I put down and didn’t have any significant criticisms of my driving. It was a huge compliment to say the least.

What We Learned

The important, key takeaways were focusing on smooth steering inputs, braking hard, being either on the gas or the brake at all times, looking ahead, quickly analyzing apexes, and doing whatever one can to shave-off hundredths.