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EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW
BUT DO NOT BE AFRAID TO ASK
Q: Are helmets required and if so, what kind?
A: Snell 2010 and later certified helmets are required for all events and the certification label is checked during Tech Inspection before each event. Helmets can be open or closed face. Certification labels currently being accepted are shown HERE
Q: Where can I get a helmet?
A: Devron purchased his helmet (RaceQuip OF20) from Summit Racing which arrived in 2 days - HELMETS . You will need to make sure you get the correct size. RaceQuip’s sizing chart (scroll to the bottom of the page). Several other manufactures offer Snell certified helmets so feel free to shop around but you’ll need to verify the certification and the manufacturers sizing. Some members purchased theirs on Amazon and Walmart.com.
Q: Where are the Events located?
A: The events are generally held once per month and take place on Saturday and/or Sunday at one of the following locations:
James A Ward Ag Center - 945 E Baddour Pkwy, Lebanon, TN 37087
Nashville Superspeedway - 4847-F McCrary Rd, Lebanon, TN 37090
NCM Motorsports Park – 505 Kimberlee A. Fast Drive, Bowling Green, KY 42103
The current schedule is located on the TRSCCA WEBSITE
Q: What is a standard Event schedule and how many runs can I expect to get in?
A: A standard Event timeline is as follows (subject to change)
7:00a - Gates Open
7:30a-9:00a - Registration / Work Schedule Sign-Up/ Vehicle Tech Inspection
8:30a - Course Open for Walking
9:00a - Novice walk-through (experienced driver walks new drivers through the course and give pointers)
9:30a - Drivers Safety Meeting (mandatory for all drivers)
9:45a – First Heat to Grid
10:00a - First Car Off! Morning session
~12:00p - 30min Lunch Break
12:30p – Afternoon session
3:30p - Awards Ceremony
The number of course “runs” is not guaranteed due to the venue’s having noise restrictions (most have to stop driving by 4 PM). At last year’s events, they averaged 6 runs per driver. The number of runs is determined by course length and the amount of time the track is “closed”. Issues that “close” the track include:
Workers late for their work assignment – it’s critical everyone shows up on time where they are supposed to report so the track stays open.
Timing system is not working
Excessive fluid on the course
Q: What is a “Work Schedule”?
A: Each event’s participants are divided into two groups. When one group is driving, the other group is working the track to ensure the course is maintained so that all participants can drive the same course. Work assignments are assigned at the Timing Trailer after registration. Novice (new) drivers are usually assigned one of two work assignments:
Radio Worker – Worker calls in violations to Race Control stating the sector, car class, number and what violation occurred. Violations are usually cones being hit (2 seconds per cone) or leaving the course (driver goes on the wrong side of a cone) which results in a DNF and no time being recorded.
Cone Worker – Worker repositions cones that have been hit by a driver. Cone locations are marked in “chalk” so they can quickly be replaced to their original location.
Q: What is “Vehicle Tech Inspection”?
A: When you arrive at your parking spot, you will unload everything from your car and leave the hood and trunk open. A TRSCCA member will come by and verify the following:
Tires - no cords showing or other damage such as bulges, nails, etc.
Helmet – Helmet displays a current Snell certification label and is in good condition
Wheel bearings, shocks, steering, seat belts and suspension in good operating condition.
Brakes - firm pedal with no detectable drop with car not running and proper level of fluid in reservoir.
All loose items removed (radar detectors, floor mats, spare tire etc.)
Hubcaps and wheel rings removed (center caps are allowed).
All lugs present and tight.
Throttle return action safe and positive (no sticky throttles)
No excessive fluid leaks.
Battery securely fastened.
Once you pass tech inspections, a label will be placed on your car’s windshield so the starter knows you passed.
Q: What does an event cost?
A: Each event cost $40 for SCCA members and $45 for non-SCCA members. Payment is made during online registration process which opens about a week before the event and usually closes at 9 PM the night before the scheduled event.
Q: Can I run a half day?
A: No, each event requires everyone stay for the entire day (ending around 4 PM).
Q: What is a “class” and how do I classify my car?
A: Classes are used to help like cars to compete against other cars with the same weight / power ratio. There are over 30 different classes in 6 category’s so it can be somewhat confusing. The full rules of car classification (60+ pages starting on page 72) can be found here: SCCA Solo Rulebook (it’s 380 pages long). A “cheat sheet” that lists the specific pages regulating specific modifications is located HERE
Generally, most Miata will fall into one of 5 classes:
C Street (CS) – NC and ND's that are unmodified or lightly modified.
E Street (ES) - NA and NB's that are unmodified or lightly modified.
Street Touring Roadster (STR) – more extensive modifications – cold air intakes, after market suspension and coil-overs, multiple sway bar changes, etc.
Street Prepared (BSP or CSP based on model) – Stand-alone ECU’s, Racing Slicks, etc. but original drivetrain
Street Modified or Extreme Street (SSM or XB) – Engine swaps or forced induction (turbos and superchargers). SSM class can run race tires and XB class is limited to 200 TW tires and above.
If you need assistance with classifying your car, please email Devron Steele
Q: Do I need to put the vehicle class and number on my car?
A: All vehicles must display numbers and class letters on both sides, painters’ tape can be used for this purpose as long as it contrasts with the color of the car so it’s easily readable.
Class will be in upper-case letters (Example: “STR or CS). Numbers and class letters should be positioned next to each other. All letters and numbers must be on body panels, not on windows.
Numbers must be a minimum of 8” (20.5 cm) high and Class letters must be a minimum of 4”. Car numbers must be unique per class and are registered when you sign up for an event.
Q: Where can I go to get additional information about future Points Events / SCCA Rules?
A: Additional information can be found at the TRSCCA WEBSITE and in the official SCCA Solo Rulebook (it’s 380 pages long) -
Q: Still have questions?
A: Contact Devron Steele: dwsteele@charter.net |
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