After spending countless days growing up around the racetrack, I'm ready to start doing D.E.s. I'm 18, and I will be driving my M3.

I'm looking for advice on which organization would be the best to run with as an 18 year old novice. Would like to find an event this summer (South). I know these threads pop up every day, but just looking for in-sight on where to start being younger.

Thanks

Connor

 

My experiences with NASA and PCA have both been great. My son is 15 and and we hope to be doing some DE's starting in the fall. I would be very comfortable with him running with either of these organizations.
Good luck to you. You're going to have a ball.

 

He can't do a PCA DE at age 15. Where can you DE at age 15?

 

I would suggest NASA and PCA. One of your local tracks might organize events too that typically leverage from the local instructors that do the NASA and PCA events. Most of the organizations require a minimum age of 18 which is not an issue for you.

 

Not with Lonestar PCA to my knowledge. When I saw a 16 year old driver in a Spec Boxster on an open track event at TWS, I remember that he mentioned Drivers Source as on option if you are not 18. He did not run the PCA DE at the following weekend ...

 

NASA makes provisions for those under 18.

 

Chin Motorsports is a great group ... Primary focus is on safety, fun is secondary.

 

PCA will only allow those that have a valid driver's license under the age of 18 to autocross. No big track stuff. I've seen kids as young as 14 race in NASA given they have the right credentials.

In the 944 Spec class, we have a Socal local that has raced since 16 and won the National Title last year at 17. He came from a karting background.

I don't know if POC allows those under 18 to do DEs or TT.

 

All the above organizations are fine, and I would also check out your local BMWCCA chapter......their emphasis is on safety which is what you need as a younger first-timer.

Gary

 

^ agreed. stick with bmwcca

 

Here in Chicago, You can drive with great instructors, in BMW, Porsche, Audi car clubs. I have driven with these and many more. Go to the website of the local track you are interested in and check the schedule. Track down the club that has a date and then explore the requirements.

 

What does your dad say? BTW where has he been lately?

PCA is my suggestion for the SE. Layed back and safety first.

 

Of course he's supportive. It's my mom who isn't on board..yet. He's busy with work stuff - he flies to his office in Philadelphia weekly. We're going to do this D.E. thing together. My newest M3 is perfect for the track (3rd one, 4th car in 2 years - I have a problem.).

 

Connor, I was in your shoes about 10 years ago. Be as humble and grateful as possible, and be aware that although they're in the minority, some of the "old guys" simply won't be able to get their heads wrapped around helping out a "kid."

 

He'll probably do NASA for a while then go to PCA if he wants to continue. He's got some karting experience so I'm curious to see how it translates into cars. It's always helped me. He's a good driver but we're not aiming for F1. Just a fun way to stay connected to my teenager.