GT sprints

[spoonie]

how does one get invoved, what classes are there (if i want to campaign a mk2 jetta or golf) and do i need a regional license?

any info ( i couldnt find much other than people's results online) would help!

~spoonie

[Dave]

yes, you do need a regional race license to run in the GT sprints. There are four classes, GT-A thru GT-D, with cars being classified in each based on lap times rather than on any sort of prep schedule or engine displacement formula. This system is often referred to as bracket racing, and although this approach certainly has its fair share of critics it's definitely the most affordable way to go bumper to bumper sedan racing in Ontario. The only prep rules are safety related, such as roll cage and fire supression requirements as well as driver fire resistant clothing and so on. The rulebook should be online at www.casc.on.ca

For people who don't like the bracket racing idea, there's also the new Touring GT series, which got off to a really good start this year. I hope to run my Civic in this series in the next year or two.

[spoonie]

ok, thx Dave.

so....how does one go about getting a regional license, other than spending $4000+ at the bridgestone school?

~spoonie

[Chris P]

The Horrizon Driving school is offered in the spring. I think it runs about a grand.

Not sure where to get more information about it.

[Dave]

No problem, and do double-check everything I'm telling you here since I'm by no means an expert on regional racing (heck, I'm not even a participant yet). Anyway, as I understand it there are a number of options in terms of getting your race license, including taking the HRC (Horizon) school or MCO school in the spring, both of which cost about $800-900 for two days at the track learning the basics or racecraft. But if you can afford to take the BRA school, you won't regret it...the quality of instruction and equipment at BRA is very very high. You could also opt to take one of the recognized schools in the U.S., and in some cases experienced drivers (ie. many years of Solo 1 and lapping) have been "observed" during practice sessions and signed off on and allowed to participate in races without having attended a school. This last option I believe is basically at the discretion of the CASC Prez and Race Director, so don't count on using it if you don't have a lot of track experience.

[DECH_92]

HRC
www.tractechracing.com/hrc/info.htm
When I went there couple years ago (shannonville) it was 3 days, One classroom, 2 track.
Its early spring and sometimes there still snow the first week.
Pierre Savoy was the main instructor.
Not sure if here is stiil there.

Even if you get 100% in the written test, the instructor in the car with you has to give you a pass as well to get your license.

[spoonie]

thx for the replies guys. i just got more into from teutonic.ca and realized the costs per event are a bit steep for my blood. looks like i'll be sticking to solo1/2 for awhile.

~spoonie