Desire, money & commitment (not necessarily in that order)
Desire and it’s arch nemesis, fear of the unknown, go hand in hand. I’ve personally had a desire to go racing since my teens. Now almost 50, I delayed for far too long. By dispelling the myth that all racers are somehow ‘super human’, joining the ranks is easier than you might think. Everyone started in the same place! So what do you need to do to get started?
What do I need to get?
- You’ll need a license. Motorsport UK govern the licensing requirements in the UK. You’ll need a ‘Go Racing’ Starter Pack which will include an application form, The ‘Blue Book’ regulations governing motorsport in the UK (download a copy here 2021-01-11-motorsport-uk-yearbook-2021) and videos that will help you pass your exam and ARDS test! (currently £99, but this includes the first license issue fee so you don’t have to pay anything else on application.
- You’ll need to pass an ARDS test. The Association of Racing Driver Schools run the testing required to attain a racing license. It’s all based around your safety and those around you. Motorsport is potentially dangerous so there has to be a minimum standard set. You’ll have to sit an exam, and take a driving test on track. You’ll need to demonstrate control of the car at roughly 70% of ‘race pace’, using the correct techniques. Usually a car is supplied so you won’t need to use your own. By visiting the ARDS website you can find a school near you. A half day course and test will set you back at least £300, with full day courses up to almost £800.
- Safety equipment. All the standards are listed in the ‘Blue Book’. Yes the same blue book you got with your ‘Go Racing’ pack! The minimum you’ll need is an approved helmet, race suit, gloves & shoes. STRONGLY recommended are fire retardant balaclava, socks and underwear. This doesn’t mean some old biker helmet that you’ve got in the shed. All motorsport safety equipment is tested to various standards, and those standards are continually evolving. The general rule of thumb here id buy the best that you can afford. Budget for at least £1000.
- Finally you’ll need a car. Because motorsport isn’t cheap, some car owners will let you drive their vehicles on what is known as an ‘arrive and drive’ basis. this means that you pitch up on the day and race. Generally it’s more expensive than the cost of racing your own car but you haven’t had to buy, build, or maintain it. The clubs will be able to put you in touch with drivers and teams that offer these services.
- Join a club, ask questions, get involved. The 750 Motor Club have always catered for the club racing scene. Fundamental to their ethos is keeping the cost to a minimum. It’s a good place to start, and you’ll be surprised at how welcome everyone will make you feel. Remember they all had to start in the same place as you, the beginning.
Basically you’re at the thick end of £2000 before you even get to your first race meeting, and you haven’t even got a car yet!
Next I’ll be discussing car choice and race series…