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March / April 2016 40 Talking Points AUTOCROSS By Rudy Rodridguez AUTOCROSS It is almost Autocross season again! Last year was fantastic; the people, the venue, the smiles on everyone's faces. All great! For those who did not come out, or are still won- dering what an autocross is, let me see if I can answer some of your questions up front. 1 What is an autocross? An autocross is a skill driving event in which one car at a time negotiates a prescribed course, using traffic cones to define a variety of turns. The sites are usually laid out on huge, open parking lots, or on sections of airport runways. The course is set up so that you are operating in lower gears, with a top speed of no more than 45 mph or so, depending on the car. The average time of a run on the course is approxi- mately one minute, plus a penalty of two seconds for each rubber cone (pylon) hit 2 Is this a beginner's event? YES!! Absolutely Yes!!! This school will be for members who have NEVER been to or driven in an autocross. Novice drivers are welcome too. 3 What will I learn? You will develop a sense of timing, judgment, and ability to interpret your vehicle's handling characteristics - at safe speeds and in a safe place. Your experi- ences at an autocross will enhance your driving ability on the street. 4 Will I have a teacher? Yes. Each student will be assigned a teacher to help train you throughout the course. 5 Will I hurt my Porsche? No. Porsche automobiles are some of the worlds best autocross- ing cars. Every model of Porsche ever built has been raced sometime on the world's finest tracks. Autocrossing is a low speed event. 6 Will I need any special equipment on my car? No. Just bring your Porsche. You do not need special tires, racing seatbelts, racing gloves or special shoes. If you have a helmet please bring it. If you do not own a helmet, the club has a limited supply. Otherwise, just bring yourself and your car. 7 Is autocrossing safe? Yes. Autocrosses are a low speed style of racing. You do not race other cars. You simply race against a timer. 8 How old do I have to be? You or your family member must be over 16 and have a valid driver's license. Members under 18 must have a Parental Consent Form signed by BOTH parents. Women are encouraged to participate. 9 Will I have fun? You betcha. You will have the most fun of any racing event, because you are the driver! Further info: Rudy Rodriguez 913-788-0007 or email rudys968and944S@aol.com - RUDY