Questionim only 12 years, but im a racing fan like you have nver seen before. what freaks most people out is that im a girl, but deep behind the pretty face theres a heart tht lies in me that wishes to be a famous racer one day. bottom line is- i would die for racing. when it comes to asking me questions about cars, its like rattling off my grade1 ABC's. i need to know what exactly i can do to start a racing career. i live in South Africa so its not so convinient for me around here. please tell me how i can begin a racing career and keep it going forever. i also need to know what i can do to get into drag racing, f1 and Rally Championships. does it require interveiws and then maybe a few practical lessons or classes? can i please get very detail, im determined to do anything for racing
AnswerWell Raabiah, it's rare I hear from folks like you regardless of age or gender have the heart of a tiger when it comes to racing. I can tell you right now with the drive and ambition you've expressed I'll bet you're gonna go far in racing.
We all started somewhere, and learned the ABCs of racing, don't be shy asking questions, racers as a group remember what it was like stating out and you'll find most of them willing to answer any questions.
To get yourself started out, there are numerous magazines and publications dedicated to racing, and a great way to brush up. There's dictionaries available through websites like amazon.com which would help you get a fundamental feel for terminology which would make it easier to absorb what you hear. A driver is never just a driver and a mechanic never just a mechanic, you have to have knowledge of both to work with your team you'll eventually be with.
With the power of the internet available you have countless resources at your fingertips.
First question is; what kind of racing (drag, circle track, road rally, cross country) is available in your immediate area? Check out what's close enough you can get to and see firsthand what's involved. Then, decide which type is of most interest to you, and get involved. A lot of racers start off on pit crews, volunteers at the shops they work on the cars, track officials, etc. Be willing to sweep some floors and run for parts in exchange for gaining knowledge.
Do some homework for me and find out what's available to you and what type of racing there is, get back to me and I'll help steer you in the right direction.
Eventually, in America there are many excellent accredited technical schools you could attend, if that's an option.
Don't be shy of asking ANY question!!! The only dumb question is the one you never ask.
What you've expressed is a good plan, with lessons and classes. Most important for you to do now is get associated with people in your area that are racing. Offer your efforts as a volunteer, ask just to go along to the races. Meet other folks from track officials to drivers and express to them as you had to me, being your desire to succeed.
I really hope I hear back from you, and I personally offer to help you with whatever info I can get for you. Best of Luck, "Blue" Mike Peterson
P.S. My son started driving at 14, and a mechanic since he was 12, as you'll discover many racers do start off young.
