QuestionDan, a question and some comments for you.
First, thank you so much for the advice you have given so many aspiring drivers out there!
Just a little background: I am 24, have a decent income (a fellow Engineer, although Industrial), and have always been passionate about car racing. My on-track experience is limited to a 3 day skip barber event years ago, but overall I received much positive feedback from the instructors as well as several drivers who had racing experience. My goal is to race competitively, and work my way up as high as I can (hopefully to a televised touring car series of sorts), starting with my own funds, then acquiring sponsorship after I can market some positive results.
My questions are: Which venue do you feel is the best to start if I want to pursue road racing, get some visibility, and try to work my way up the ladder? Here is what I was looking at currently, and I would really appreciate your advice: I am currently looking into SCCA racing, specifically the Spec Miata class as it offers a large field and is relatively cheap (around $10-15K for the prepped car initially). I know you also mention go-karting, which looks to be even more affordable. When is it better to look at moving up through go-karting vs. moving up through the SCCA events? And also, given the costs and visibility of SCCA races vs. go-kart races, which is a better way to move up? Or is there an even better way than the ones I mentioned?
Any advice you could provide would be GREATLY appreciated – thank you!
AnswerHi again Jason:
I'm going with SCCA cuz it's fairly inexpensive, and if you start to show potential, and start winning National Championships. you will get noticed.
Now then. most pro aspirants these days have marketing professionals on their side too. and an agent. You aren't to that stage yet, but it's something you should investigate, and add to your budget.
Go Karting is also good in that ANY seat time is good and Karting puts you right NEXT to your competition. If you're limber enough to get into one comfortably, it's extra experience.
Note that I mention National Championships. That's going to take a commitment of time and money. You can't expect that kind of success in the first few years. The talent scouts rarely go to regional events.
At your age, with the proper commitment, enough financing, and a little talent , you might just make a pro tour of some kind, but I warn you it will take a LOT of all of it, especially the talent. You're going to have a LOT of fun along the way !
Best of Luck
Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Fl
