President's Message

In the last three months, I've handled a lot of questions about autocross.  It's a popular sport, and its participants are passionate and serious.  They also like to have a good time.  Well, this year Don Malson, our new Autocross Chair, is going to get the good times rolling with the help a committee of dedicated autocrossers.  As I write this, Don is working on plans for our annual Autocross School to be held at the Police Academy Training Facility in Sykesville on April 12.  The school is an excellent opportunity for you to discover your car’s capabilities and potential, making you a safer driver on the road and faster at the track.

Don and the crew are also working to secure lots for our use this season, and could use the help of club members in finding new venues.  If you know of any lots, please contact Don via email at autocross@pcachs.org.

On the outside, autocross may appear to be merely individual cars going fast around a parking lot.  But a closer look reveals a sport that is professionally run by a well trained group of enthusiasts minimizing risk and maximizing the fun factor.  Participants and spectators alike enjoy these exciting events.

For anyone who has yet to try autocrossing, I highly recommend you do so.  My first event was back in March of 1997.  I enjoyed the day so much, it prompted me to write an article for Patter, which Lynn Eckles published.  In that article, I wrote, "I had three goals when I started:  I wanted to finish the course at least once; I wanted to have fun; and I wanted to drive home.  I accomplished all three."   That pretty much sums up autocrossing.  These are fun events that don't beat up your car.

So come on out to the next autocross and give it a try.  Even if you decide it's not your sport, you can cheer on your Chesapeake Region friends.

Andrew