About this event
The North Hills Sports Car Club (NHSCC) is hosting an “introduction to autocross” event on April 24th at the North Park swimming pool parking lot. This non-competitive event is designed for anyone interested in getting started in the sport of autocross, or anyone looking to see what their car is capable of in a safe, controlled environment. We will cover everything you need to know - from car prep to driving skills - so you can have fun and enjoy your car in a safe, controlled environment.
We will begin by covering the basics of participating in autocross with the NHSCC, including registration, work assignments, and a typical event day schedule. We will also cover the basics of autocross driving and how to improve your driving skills and make the most of your car’s capabilities.
After the club provides lunch, it’s time to put theory into practice. You’ll be paired with an experienced club member as you take your car through common elements found in an autocross course. You’ll receive feedback as you practice to improve your driving skills, gain confidence and build speed.
The day culminates in a full-course session, with multiple runs to practice and set your personal best time. You’ll come away from the day ready to not only participate in autocross events with confidence, but also to be competitive.
Schedule:
7:30 – 9:00 Course Setup (participants are invited to assist)
9:00 – 10:00 Driver Registration and Vehicle Inspection
10:00 - 12:00 Classroom Session
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch (provided by the club)
1:00 – 1:45 Session 1 (½ cars on each course)
1:45 – 2:00 Session 1 Review
2:00 - 2:45 Session 2 (cars switch courses)
2:45 – 3:00 Session 2 Review
3:00 – 4:00 Session 3 – Full Course
Introduction to Autocross is open to anyone, all you need is a street-legal vehicle and a helmet. You don’t need a sports car, only vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as SUV’s are prohibited. Complete vehicle eligibility listings are available at the SCCA Classifier. The club has some loaner helmets available, but we do recommend having your own (SNELL 2010 or newer) helmet, especially if you plan to run more events. Many models are available for under $200.
Please note, this is a non-competitive event and is limited to event participants only. We will not be holding a regular competition event on this day and no points will be awarded to drivers. Season points will be awarded to volunteers who work the event.
On-line Registration Fees
Members: $37.50 (Includes MSR Fees)
Non-Members: $42.75(Includes MSR Fees)
On-Site Registration Fees (Cash or Credit Card)
Members: $35.00
Non-Members: $40.00
Event requirements
Allegheny County requires that all cars running at North Park be licensed, bearing current registration stickers, and be street legal for the jurisdiction that the vehicle is registered in. (PA cars require current inspection stickers.) DOT registered tires are also required. (No slicks)
All North Hills Sport Car Club autocross participants are required to wear a SNELL rated helmet while on course. We accept the current as well as the previous 3 generations of Snell ratings. (2015, 2010, 2005, 2000). DOT helmets are not permitted.
Drivers must sign all waiver forms and be aware that they are liable for any damage that he/she negligently causes to the person(s) or property of other entrants, course workers, spectators, or to their own vehicle. Anyone refusing to pay for such damage will be barred from further competition.
Minor drivers (defined as anyone under the age of eighteen (18) years) must be the son, daughter, or be in the legal custody of a current active or life member of The North Hills Sports Car Club who is of legal age. The parents or legal guardians of said minor must sign the Minor Waiver Forms in the presence of a Club officer, agreeing to assume the liability detailed in paragraph above.
We require visible car and class numbers at all of our events. Each competitor shall have numbers and class markings at least 8" tall on their vehicle. The numbers and car color should contrast. If you are a novice and do not know what class or number you are running, we will ask you to use a neon paint stick to write numbers on your window or use paper and large marker and tape to inside of side windows.
If you are a novice and do not know what class or number you should be in, pick a class here that you think your car is eligible to compete in and when you arrive to the event Sunday morning, notify Registration (found at the Club's trailer) that you need help determining your class, we are always willing to help. If you choose a class that is not correct, the North Hills Sports Car Club reserves the right to re-class your vehicle based on the SCCA Classification Rules.
Every vehicle entering an event must be presented for a Technical Inspection prior to each event. Tech Inspectors have the right to reclassify any vehicle due to obvious illegal modifications. The entrant must report such reclassification to Registration immediately. Technical Inspection shall close at 10:00 A.M. Any car not appearing for technical inspection by that time shall forfeit their first run.
