Autocross

Autocross, also known as Autoslalom in some countries, is a motorsport event where drivers race against the clock on a marked course, typically held on a closed-off section of a parking lot or an airstrip. The track consists of cones placed in tight turns and slaloms, challenging drivers to navigate through the course as quickly and accurately as possible without hitting the cones. It’s a sport that emphasizes precision, car control, and the driver’s ability to push their vehicle to its limits within a confined, low-speed environment. Autocross is often seen as an accessible entry point for newcomers to motorsports, as it requires minimal modifications to the car and can be practiced in local events.

Unlike traditional racing circuits, Autocross focuses more on agility and handling than outright speed. The event is typically timed, with each participant completing the course individually, ensuring that there are no head-to-head battles. This format not only allows drivers to compete in a controlled setting but also reduces the risk of accidents, making it appealing to both beginners and seasoned racers. Additionally, because the events are often held in public venues like parking lots or airfields, it offers an affordable and convenient way for people to experience motorsports. It’s a sport where skill is paramount, and drivers can experiment with different techniques to improve their times and learn more about their vehicle’s handling capabilities.

Getting Involved

The basic requirements for participating in Autocross are relatively straightforward, but they do vary slightly depending on the event or governing organization. Here are some common requirements:

Vehicle: Generally, any car, truck, or SUV can participate in Autocross, as long as it is in good working condition. The car must pass a basic safety inspection, which includes checking things like tires, brakes, and fluid levels. Some events may have restrictions on certain types of cars or modifications (such as open-wheel or excessively modified vehicles), so it’s important to check specific event guidelines.

Safety Equipment: Participants must wear appropriate safety gear, which typically includes a helmet (Snell-rated, usually from the last 5 years), long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Some events may require additional safety features like a harness or roll bar, especially for modified or high-performance vehicles.

Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is typically required to ensure that participants have the necessary basic driving skills. Some events may also require participants to be a certain age (often at least 18) to compete, though there are sometimes special provisions for younger drivers with parental consent.

Car Numbers and Classing: Most events require participants to display a car number for identification during the timed runs. Cars are also classified into different categories based on factors like make, model, and modifications, which helps group similar vehicles together for fairer competition.

Membership/Registration: Most Autocross events require a membership in a motorsport club or organization, such as the Ottawa SportsCar Club, or any other member club that is affiliated with the region – Canadian Automobile Sport Clubs (CASC-OR), Auto Sport Quebec (ASQ), or Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). Additionally, participants need to register for the event in advance or on-site, paying any necessary entry fees.

There is a large number of events that are held within Ottawa, and up to 2 hours outside of Ottawa (Montreal, Kingston) by affiliated clubs such as the Motorsport Club of Ottawa, Club Auto-sport des Laurentides,