NORTH BAY CORVETTE ASSOCIATION EST 1967
AutoX - 2021
AutoX - Jun. 2023
AutoX - 2022
Thunderhill Raceway Park
Why you should try autocross with North Bay Corvette
It makes you a better and safer driver
- Teaches car control: Autocross forces you to explore the limits of your vehicle's handling, helping you understand how it behaves when traction is about to be lost.
- Develops muscle memory: By repeatedly practicing maneuvers like slaloms and tight turns, you build the reflexes needed to respond instinctively in a real-world emergency, such as avoiding an obstacle.
- Improves technique: You will learn to recognize what your car is telling you through the steering wheel and the "seat of your pants," leading to smoother, faster driving.
- Provides a safe environment: Since the courses are set up in open spaces, the risk of serious damage or injury is extremely low. The only things you can hit are cones, which are forgiving.
It's accessible and affordable
- Low cost of entry: Autocross is one of the most affordable forms of motorsport. Event fees are typically low, and the investment in modifications or safety gear is minimal for beginners.
- Use your daily driver: You don't need a dedicated race car. Any car in good mechanical condition can be used, and participants are divided into classes to ensure fair competition.
- No special equipment needed: While a helmet is required, we offer loaner helmets. You can get started with just your street car, driver's license, and basic registration.
It's fun and social
- Friendly competition: The timed nature of the event allows you to compete against other drivers in similar cars and measure your own progress. The goal is often self-improvement as much as it is beating others.
- Join a community: Autocross is a social sport that brings car enthusiasts together. The community is welcoming and encourages participation, with experienced drivers often happy to help novices.
- Rewarding engagement: As a participant, you'll also be part of the event by taking on a work assignment, such as resetting cones. This active involvement contributes to the camaraderie of the sport.
What to expect at an autocross event
- Walk the course: Before driving, you will have several opportunities to walk the course. This is critical for planning your driving line and memorizing the layout, since the course is different at every event.
- Take your runs: You will get multiple chances to drive the course throughout the day, each lasting about 40 to 70 seconds. Time penalties are given for hitting cones or going off-course.
- Minimal car wear: The short duration of runs and relatively low speeds mean autocross is not punishing on your car. Most wear is limited to tires, and some drivers use a separate set of wheels for events.