So you want to be a Racerchick?

by Nika of racerchicks.com

I think the one question I get asked the most is how does a person become a race car driver.  Apart from the obvious - learn how to drive fast, there are certain steps a person should take if they want to be a racer. Although the steps I provide may sound simple and obvious, we sometimes have to take a deep breath and view what racing means to us and what we want to realistically achieve.  Understand that unlike knitting racing demands time and commitment on an on-going basis......yes your race car or bike will be known as your significant other - but without the diamond ring.

Step One: Decide what form of racing you want to do? Do you want to be an open wheel racer or motorcycle racer ? Do you want to drive on dirt or in a straight line? This is also a good time to look at your closet - you won't be getter any new shoes for a while and Gucci doesn't make Nomex racing booties.

Step Two: Go to the local track and watch and meet the drivers and teams. Go to learn - not for the beer garden.  This is important because those people will be your family, mentors and teachers as you break in to the sport. Join local clubs and organizations and volunteer your time to these groups. Yes - how do you make a million in racing ? You start off with 10!!

Step Three: Invest in a good racing school. You may think you are a fast driver but on a race track you will be humbled quickly.  Take advantage of any track days when you can get "seat time" in a race car. There will always be someone faster and there will always be someone slower - learn to race clean and you will be respected. 

Step Four: Learn basic mechanics. Understanding the dynamics of your race car or bike and you will be able to communicate better with your crew - they are your life-blood at the race track. A crew chief can't decipher the "thinga-ma-bob" that is making a "woooowoooo" noise. 

For the younger set - I recommend checking out the closest go-kart track. Karting is a great teaching medium and is relatively cheap.  Junior dragster and some youth motocross leagues are great ways to improve skill even before you are old enough to drive

The most important step is to believe in yourself. From experience I can tell you the trepidation I felt as I went to racing school.  I achieved something I thought I couldn't do and as I walked out with my certificate nobody could take away the feeling of accomplishment I felt.

Last step: Have fun and never for a moment forget that we, at racerchicks.com,  are 100% behind you and cheering you on.

For comments, feedback and just plain greetings, feel free to e-mail me at nika@racerchicks.com or AOL IM  "racernika"