HOW TO START IN MOTORSPORT IN SCOTLAND

Car Racing

Car racing with the KMSC & SMRC has never been stronger in terms of numbers on the grid, close racing and variety of cars. It’s great fun, can be inexpensive if you choose the car and class you race in wisely.

By far the best thing to do is speak to an expert within the class that interests you, come along to a race meeting and watch the action, chat to the drivers themselves and take advice on which car to buy.

Class contacts for any information are:

Car Racing in Scotland is organised jointly by the Knockhill Motor Sports Club (KMSC) and by the Scottish Motor Racing Club (SMRC).

Knockhill has been appointed as the sole venue in Scotland to administer the ARDS assessment course which must be completed before applying for your competition licence. To start car racing it is relatively easy but there are procedures to follow. You can also obtain a Starter Pack from Knockhill (01383 723337) or direct from the MUK. Study the contents, watch the DVD then go for a medical.

After your medical, phone Knockhill and book a date for your ARDS Novice Racing Driver Test (total cost including pack and 1st years license is £325). This is a theory and a practical test, which, once passed, you get your race licence for competing at Club level.

In addition, Super Lap Scotland is a stepping stone between drivers who do track days and full blown racing. It is a race against the clock in a Super Sprint format and is open to drivers in road and competition cars. Only a MUK Sprint Licence is required for this.

Email duncan@knockhill.co.uk or see www.superlapscotland.co.uk for more info.

GoMotorsport

There is also Go Motorsport, an MSA scheme to encourage more interested people to become a marshal, become an official, start in any form of motorsport from auto testing to racing or find out more about the motorsport industry - www.gomotorsport.net.

Motorcycle Racing

The first thing you need to do is join an ACU/SACU affiliated Club. This allows you to obtain the necessary form to apply for your Road Race licence. For racing at Knockhill events, you can join the Knockhill Motor Sports Club for £25.

When you get your licence you will also received a copy of the current ACU rulebook. This is a very important document that contains all the relevant rules and regulations. The Road Race Section outlines what specifically you need to do to ensure your machine complies with the regulations for your class and the required standard for protective clothing (leathers, boots, gloves, helmet etc). In addition, you should also read the General Information pertaining to all disciplines as well as the Sporting Code.

The main contacts for the Knockhill Club is Gemma on gemma@knockhill.co.uk or phone 01383 723337.

How to start Rally Driving

Knockhill has been appointed the sole venue in Scotland to administer the compulsory new BARS stage rallying assessment course. Those wishing to go stage rallying in the UK must now undertake a compulsory 2.5 hour assessment course at any one of 10 approved British Association of Rally School venues.

The format is as follows: Drivers must obtain a starter pack from Knockhill or the MSA direct. After reading the appropriate sections of the rule book and watching the enclosed DVD, phone the booking office at Knockhill and book yourself into a date.

The course consists of an introductory session, multiple choice written test and a practical in-car test. Assuming both sections are passed, the application form is stamped and returned to the MSA. (total cost including pack and 1st years license is £325). Please phone 01383 720044 for availability and course dates.

Junior 1000 Ecosse Challenge

The primary goal of the Championship will be to provide a controlled and level playing field where the stars of the future can be nurtured and the stars of the present and past can have a play without breaking the bank!

For more information look on the website: www.j1000ecossechallenge.co.uk or email rhona@j1000ecossechallenge.co.uk

Young people in the age group 14 to 17 will be able to compete in rally prepared 1000cc rally cars on a selection of specially structured stage rally events in Scotland. 

Basic rules are:

• Drivers must be between 14 and 17 year old and a minimum height of 1.4m
• Drivers must complete a structured training programme before they will be granted a Competition Licence.
• Cars have to be standard 1000cc models from any manufacturer with mandatory safety modifications. No tuning is allowed.
• Co-drivers must be over 21 years of age and hold a Stage Rally National A or above Competition Licence.
• The competitors will be held at selected venues where special single venue style events will be organised. Juniors will not compete on any current events but may run alongside them.