GETTING STARTED IN OPEN WHEEL ROAD RACING
Everybody wants to feel like a Formula One or Indy 500 pilot, and this is the way to live that dream. A great place to get started is by working with a school. You can use their cars and get some very good instruction on the basics and there are formula car racing schools within a days drive from almost anywhere in the country. Once you are comfortable it is time to consider where you really want to compete. Some drivers stay at the school racing level as it is usually a much smaller budget than moving into a upper level racing series. Serious career minded racers will look to a series that offers TV coverage and big year end career enhancement bonuses such as the Star Mazda Series. For drivers looking to have an enjoyable yet professional level weekend a series like the Formula Car Challenge presented by Goodyear is more appropriate.

“We have taken drivers who have spent a half dozen days with a racing school and we work with them for a few events and helped them get on the podium in a very short period of time,” stated Standing Start Manager Scott Bradley. “Like anything else you need to practice to get good at it, and the benefit of a personal coach cannot be underestimated.”

STEPS TO GETTING INVOLVED
Contact a region head for help and suggestions on these steps, they have the knowledge and would like the opportunity to assist you with the process.

Step 1) Get your competition license. You can do this through a variety of schools and programs.

Step 2) Select a region that you would like to compete in.

Step 3) Determine which class fits your budget and current skill level.

Step 4) Purchase/rent a car to do some pre-race testing.

Step 5) Enter Formula Car Challenge competition.