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Originally posted by Dan Lewis
A Beginners Guide To Getting Started In Motor Racing

Basically, there are two ways of getting started in motor racing. The first option is to buy a race prepared car from a competitor who is changing classes or packing up.

The alternative way is to use a "donor" car and do all the conversion yourself. With this option much depends on the condition of the car in the first place. It must be stressed that it needs to be in sound condition with regard to body, suspension and running gear. You are going to be driving the car to it's limit so it needs to be safe and strong.

It has to be said that the cheapest way of starting is by buying a ready prepared car. Preferably one which you have seen perform on the track and which you can take back home straight from there. No race car ever seems to fetch as much money as has been spent on it, so doing it this way you are not paying full price for all the extra fittings. If you want to look at a prospective purchase it's not a bad idea to take along someone with some experience of the cars so that they can advise. You will need to fit a full roll cage to protect you in the event of an accident. A plumbed in fire extinguisher system is required for all classes from 2006. In addition to this you will need an Electrical cut-out switch . This is to isolate the electrical system in the event of an accident so that sparks cannot start a fire. A racing seat and a full harness seat belt will also be needed.

In addition to the car you will need personal safety gear; ie. flameproof racing overalls, boots, gloves, balaclava, underwear and a good quality crash helmet. With all safety equipment always buy the best you can afford. If you are a spectacle wearer it's a good idea to use plastic lenses instead of the normal glass.

Finally, you will need to take and pass the ARDS course which is run at various circuits and is designed to give the beginner an introduction to track driving in cars run by the racing school. You then take a practical and written assessment which, if passed, will enable you to obtain your Competition Licence. To set all this in motion you will need the "Go Racing" starter pack from the MSA. This includes a half-hour instructional video, The MSA Motorsports Yearbook (or the Blue Book as it's universally known), and all the information and forms needed to get you started.

The Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup is one of the friendliest Championships around and you will find that the drivers and their helpers will be very willing to chat and offer advice and opinions. So why not come to one of the meetings and talk to people and see for yourself ? If you want to know more about the series, please write, telephone, fax or e-mail one of the contacts on the Contacts page. The Metro Cup really is one of the best ways to make an entry into motor sport and have lots of fun.

In order to take part in the Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup you will need to join the MG Car Club. On the Contacts page there is a link to the MG Car Club web site where you will find the necessary details. In addition to joining the MG Car Club, you will also need to register for the Championship. This will cost £25 for the year and is entitles you to race with the series. Any registrations should be sent to the Registrar, whose address and telephone number is on the Contacts page.

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