Speed, Skill, and Smiles
If you’ve ever wanted to test your driving skills in a competitive, safe, and supportive environment, autocross might be the perfect fit. With its low barriers to entry, focus on precision over speed, and friendly community, autocross has become a popular motorsport across the United States—and Cincinnati has an active scene, thanks to the Cincinnati Chapter of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA).
Autocross is a timed motorsport event where drivers navigate a course marked by cones in a large, open space, like a parking lot or airfield. Unlike traditional racing, where high speeds dominate, autocross is about mastering the art of car control on a tight, technical course. Courses are designed to be challenging, with sharp turns, slaloms, and hairpins that reward agility and skill over raw horsepower. This makes it ideal for all types of cars, from daily drivers to modified track-ready machines.
The SCCA, or Sports Car Club of America, is the largest organization for grassroots motorsports in the U.S., offering various events across the country, from autocross to track days and rallycross. Within the SCCA, the Cincinnati Region chapter is a vibrant group dedicated to making motorsports accessible and enjoyable for locals. They organize regular autocross events, known as Solo events, where drivers of all skill levels can compete, learn, and have fun.
The Cincinnati SCCA chapter hosts many autocross events throughout the year at locations like Traders World in Lebanon, Ohio, which provides ample space for courses that challenge drivers and allow spectators to get close to the action. From “points events” to fun runs, the chapter offers plenty of opportunities to get involved and improve your skills behind the wheel.
For anyone interested in seeing autocross in action or jumping into the driver’s seat, there’s an exciting event coming up:
CincySCCA Solo Fall Fun / WOR Charity Event: Scheduled for November 2-3, 2024, this event will be held at the Traders World parking lot. It’s open to participants of all experience levels, and newcomers are encouraged to join. Registration is available online, making it easy to reserve your spot and get ready for some high-adrenaline driving fun.
Additionally, the SCCA offers a “Permanent Number” registration option for the upcoming 2024 season, allowing regular participants to lock in their preferred car numbers for events throughout the year.
What to Expect at an Autocross Event
For Spectators: Autocross is spectator-friendly, with open layouts that let you see the entire course. You’ll witness drivers maneuvering through cone-marked paths, each attempting to beat the clock without hitting any cones (which add time penalties). The atmosphere is relaxed and often social, giving you a chance to talk with drivers and learn more about their cars and techniques.
For Participants: After registering, participants arrive on event day for check-in and a quick car inspection. You’ll then join a “course walk,” where drivers can explore the layout on foot, noting turns and sections that will require extra attention. Following a driver’s meeting, you’ll begin your runs, focusing on smooth, controlled handling as you aim for the fastest clean time possible. Loaner helmets are often available, but participants should bring essentials like water, snacks, and comfortable clothing for the day.
One of the highlights of autocross is its community. The Cincinnati SCCA chapter is known for its welcoming and inclusive environment, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home. Experienced drivers often share tips and tricks, and there’s no pressure to perform perfectly—everyone is there to have fun and improve their skills. The collaborative atmosphere is perfect for both beginners and veterans, with camaraderie that makes every event feel like a gathering of friends who share a passion for driving.
If you’re new to autocross, here are some tips to get you started on the right foot:
Choose a Reliable Car: Almost any car can compete, and many people use their daily drivers. Lightweight, agile cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Honda Civic, or Mini Cooper are popular choices due to their responsive handling. It’s best to focus on car control and consistency rather than power at first.
Attend an Autocross 101 Session: Many SCCA chapters, including Cincinnati, offer novice-focused events where beginners can learn the basics of autocross. These sessions cover everything from course navigation to driving techniques, and you’ll get advice from experienced drivers on how to approach your first runs.
Bring the Basics: Pack essentials like a tire pressure gauge, water, sunscreen, and any small tools you may need. A helmet is required, though loaner helmets are often available.
Take Your Time: Your first few runs might feel challenging, so start slow and focus on learning the course layout and maintaining control. Speed will come naturally as you get more comfortable.
Which Car to Drive?
You don’t need a specialized car to start enjoying autocross. Here are some beginner-friendly options:
Lightweight and Nimble: Cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ, and Mini Cooper offer great handling and agility, ideal for navigating tight courses.
Reliable and Easy to Control: Models like the Honda Civic, Ford Fiesta, and Volkswagen GTI are reliable and user-friendly, giving you a great balance of handling and comfort.
Front-Wheel Drive vs. Rear-Wheel Drive: While many autocross enthusiasts love rear-wheel-drive cars for their handling dynamics, front-wheel-drive cars are just as competitive and often more predictable for beginners.
Autocross in Cincinnati offers a fantastic way to connect with other car enthusiasts, sharpen your driving skills, and enjoy the thrill of competition. Whether you’re attending to watch or participating for the first time, you’ll find a welcoming community and an exciting experience. Check out the Cincinnati SCCA website for event details and join the fun on the track!