Hello all! I just got my mini about a month ago, and at some point I think I might like to join the local autocross club and start racing, but I'd like to go watch a few events first. I was wondering if anyone could tell me what it is like to go as just a spectator. I've never been, and I wouldn't want to get in the way of the actual competitors (I don't mean on the track, just in general). Is it kinda obvious where a spectator can hang out at the events to not be in the way of those competing? Thanks for the help!

 

I was bit reluctant to just sign up for an autocross event too. So I Just went to the next event and talked to the drivers. I was offered (and accepted) rides in a couple of MINIs. What a blast. If you go to one as a spectator like I did, go talk to the other MINI people and ask questions. Most people are very friendly and will be eager to talk you into signing up for the next event.
I signed up for the next event! Even better! Off course one run and not very fast (but not the slowest) on the other runs. I'm still not that good but it sure is fun!

 

My 1st days years ago was so much fun, seems like yesterday.

Few tips I share with local 1st timers. Walk the course, then walk it again. Find a "buddy" to ride with and learn from. 1st run, go slower and learn the course you walked. Then go faster with each run. Smooth is fast. Have Fun and don't worry about the other peoples times. The cone you stare at is the cone you will hit.

 

I really appreciate the advice on my first time out actually racing, but what I'd really like to know right now is what do you do and where do you go if you are only planning on watching? I'd really like to get the "feel" for an event before I jump in with both feet if you know what I mean.

 

Well, each site will be different. Generally you can drive up in the morning and park where everyone else is parked. You'll find everyone removing everything from their cars and piling it behind the car. They may be adjusting the air pressure in their tires or even changing to their racing wheels and tires. As people get their car ready they will drive it over to the tech inspection area where it will be inspected for safety. There will be a period of time when drivers can walk the course and then a drivers meeting. Then all the cars for the 1st heat will line up in the grid area so that they can be quickly and efficiently sent to the starting line in the correct order. Driver's from one of the other heats will be working the course (tech inspection, grid, timing, course stations).

If just watching: You may or may not have to sign in somewhere so ask at whatever table or trailer you see set up. You can wander around all the cars and talk to the other people, that's half the fun anyway. You can probably go over to the grid area but that may be site dependent so be sure to ask or watch what others are doing. There is sure to be somewhere you can watch the course but be sure to bring a folding chair since there may not be anyplace comfortable to sit. Be sure to talk with the MINI owners, let them know you're new and ask if anyone will let you ride as a passenger. You may want to pack some snacks and drinks since not all sites will have a place to get food.

I'm no expert but hopefully this helps.

 

Thanks so much! That is exactly the info I was looking for.

 

Hi minigirl78,
There is a MINI/Mini club in FL. Check out www.sunshineminis.org. Lots of information, including autox.
As a matter of fact, the last w/e in March, Downtown MINI, the dealer in Orlando, is sponsoring an all MINI autox. There will be lots of first timers! Last year was my first time, had a blast. More than 50 MINI's, and everyone I met was really nice. They had a big tent, with folding chairs, set up to let spectators watch out of the sun/rain. And the lunch they served was fantastic.
Larry, at Downtown MINI, is the contact. I am sure you could still sign up. Last year they had 'loaner' helmets, for those of us who didn't own one, but check about that this year, if you want to participate.