I really want to do some autocross (since it's probably the lowest cost and risk when it comes to racing that I know of) so I can push my car to its limits and see what racing is all about. The problem is I don't know anyone that does anything like that and don't know where to go to learn and start. I'm in Jamestown, NY (1.5hrs from Buffalo). Does anyone have any advice for a newbie trying to get into the sport? I hate knowing I have all this power and fun waiting under the hood but can't ever push it without worrying about safety or a ticket.

 

My advice is to do a search on the net to find your local events. Go to one and watch. Do some ride alongs with people (drivers are allowed to have one passenger during lapping). You will learn a lot and see what it is all about. Then bring your car out to the next one and start having fun! That is how I started about 5 years ago. I've been addicted ever since!

 

search for your local SCCA region - i'm sure there's some active NY events going on, but you may have to make a little drive

absolutely do some ride alongs, you'll be very surprised your first time in the car

if you get serious you may want to get a second set of wheels/tires so you don't tear up your street tires. there's a book out on Autocross. It was put out this year, it's called how to autocross or something - it's VERY helpful

 

I just found a bunch of information from the SCCA (which I didn't know existed) and apparently there's a division right near me about 45 mins away! I contacted a couple division coordinators and I'll be going up to my first event in a couple of weeks. Thanks for the replies.

 

Awesome! Learn lots and have fun!

 

that'll be sweet! get excited

- it's full of good information, but a little repetitive for me since i've done autocrossing before. I'm almost done with mine

 

I just ordered that book. Other people have told me that's a good one to have too.

I went to an event today and it was pretty sweet. There were probably only 30 cars there total so it's not real big in my area I guess. They also only do it once a month so I'll be doing my first runs at the end of next month. I would have run today but I'm having power steering problems and those slow corners are going to want some steering input...