Frequently Asked Questions

Tom Dalrymple, Lone Star SCCA Director, winning the Enduro at TWS, November 2002. Photo by Wayne Hill.

What is the SCCA?

The Sports Car Club of America is the primary sanctioning body for automobile road racing, rally, and solo events in the United States. For complete details, see the SCCA website.

What does it take to go racing?

You don't even have to drive to participate in the many support specialties needed to run a successful race. If you want to race a car, you will need to go to drivers school and get a license as well as obtain access to a prepared race car. Race cars can be rented.

Where do we race in Texas?

Our primary racing facility is Texas World Speedway in Bryan-College Station, although we also sanction races at at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. We occasionally use airport facilities at Cabiness Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, Texas. And there are new tracks in the planning stages.

How much does it cost to race?

This is a tough question given the wide variation in race car costs. Production-based race cars like an RX7 can be put together for a few thousand dollars, while formula and GT cars can cost six figures. Expect to double your investment with support equipment, driver stuff, and tools. Variable costs, primarily tires and travel, can run several thousand dollars a year if you don't use too many spare parts. It is not an inexpensive sport, but there seems to be a budget for almost anyone with the passion.

Do I have to own a race car?

No. Several people rent cars trackside as "arrive and drive."

Can I watch races?

Most SCCA events are spectator events, meaning that for a small entry fee you can get into the paddocks and get up close to the cars. You will not be able to get in pit lane or other high hazard areas without proper credentials. There is always someone needing help, and if you have the desire you can even help with race stuff like timing and scoring or flagging. Y'all come out! Download the race entry forms from the competition section; there is a wealth of information there. Visit the track website for even more info.

What are the rules at the race track?

Most rules are based on common sense. In general they follow the motto of "safe, fun, and fair":

• Pets are not allowed at most venues. A dog running on the track does neither the dog or a racecar much good.
  
  
• No drinking if you are associated with a car until that car's day is over. Then please drink intelligentlly and share your beer.
  
  
• Be careful where you smoke; there is a lot of fuel about.
  
  
• No guns allowed.
  
  
• Don't litter, graffiti, pound holes in the asphalt, or spill fuel and oil on the ground.
  
  
• Obey all signs, officials, and police.
  
  
• Gates normally close at night, so if you are not camping at the track, you better watch out.
  
  
• Watch out for race cars. They have the right of way and may not see you or be able to turn at low speed.
  
  
• Have fun.

Can I bring kids?

Sure. They must be supervised, but SCCA is a family sport and many adult racers spent their youth hanging out at the track. Many racers go out of their way to let kids experience racing and will often let kids sit in race cars if they have the time.