NSRA AUTOCROSS

If you have any questions regarding the program or would be interested in partnership opportunities,

If you have any questions regarding the program, or would be interested in partnership opportunities

KEVIN WEBB – AUTOCROSS DIRECTOR

NSRA Autocross Program 2025

What is Autocross?

Its basic definition is a type of car racing where drivers navigate a course using traffic cones.

It’s often held on parking lots or airport runways. It allows you the ability to test both your driving skills, and the overall performance of your vehicle.

It is a timed event where you drive through a specific course in the fastest, safest way you are comfortable with.

The time from start to finish is measured, with seconds added to your time if you hit a guide cone.

Why would I want to put my car on the track?

Remember when you first learned to ride a bike, then drive a car?

Every trip was an adventure, and as you had more confidence, you tended to go a little faster, Autocross gives you that same feeling again.

Most people really have no idea how their vehicle would react in an emergency maneuver to avoid an accident.

The autocross program gives you a chance to sharpen your driving ability and see how your vehicle would handle when pushed to its overall capacity.

Unfortunately, we have all experienced that “near miss” in all kinds of driving situations.

Autocross gives you the opportunity to really trust what your vehicle can handle.

How much time am I on the track?

Since most courses are on parking lots, the average time you’ll spend on each run can be between 30 and 45 seconds.

However, if it takes you a minute, that’s ok because you are learning what you are comfortable with each run.

Think of it as your favorite ride at the amusement park, just a lot more fun.

How fast will I be going?

This really depends again on your ability and the handling/speed of your vehicle.

Most runs won’t exceed 40 Mph, but I can promise you, it feels a lot faster.

As you run the course more, you’ll find it’s a lot like other sports, once you understand it, you get better at it.

Won’t I risk damage to my car?

This is probably the biggest misconception in autocross.

You are driving your vehicle to your comfort level, and autocross will show you how well your vehicle really responds.

The cone you might hit or run over is soft plastic, so rarely is there even a mark left behind.

Now in saying that, can you push your vehicle beyond it’s limits, yes but at most you might have some tire wear or worn brakes.

What types of vehicles are allowed?

The autocross program is based on two things, safety and fun.

The rules and restrictions are clearly provided in our driver and vehicle information sheet.

The main restriction is no race cars, (we don’t want anyone to be intimidated by the speed they can carry) and no lifted trucks (tipping or rollover hazard).

I have seen 29 model A’s all the way up to modified autocross designed vehicles.

Our NSRA personnel onsite will be glad to answer any questions you have about running your vehicle.

What are the driver restrictions?

Must be 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.

All drivers will be required to sign a liability waiver for NSRA and the autocross provider

No open toe shoes/flipflops when on the track.

The other requirements are listed on the NSRA Autocross webpage.

Do I have to wear a helmet?

YES, due to insurance regulations all driver and passengers will be required to wear a DOT or Snell approved helmet.

For individuals who do not have one, we will have helmets available at either low-cost rental or no charge depending on the provider

The other reason it is required is your safety, and well, you’ll look cool…

Am I required to have my vehicle inspected?

To ensure the safety of drivers, passengers and spectators we will be providing a “check list” for your vehicle that you will agree to before driving on the track.

The vehicle requirement list will be on the NSRA Autocross page.

How much does this cost?

Any vehicle registered at the NSRA event is eligible to participate in the autocross program (except restricted vehicles). There are no additional charges to race, unless you need a helmet.

I’ve never done this before, I’m afraid I’ll look…..

There are numerous ways to get started…Be a spectator the first day, you’ll be amazed how many different types of vehicles that race.

Do a “ride along” My first experience on the track was as a passenger with the great Suzi Bauter in her Camaro. I never forgot how much fun it was, and I was hooked.

Attend the morning or afternoon driver meeting. Ask questions, we are all there to help you.

Ask the drivers, I have gotten to know some really great people over the years, and you get to see how they set up their vehicle. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere, plus you’re with car people, always cool!

Talk to the vendors. We are very fortunate to be partnered with a lot of great companies that support the autocross sport. They can advise you on the best way to make your vehicle handle better, and enhance your driving experience.

What class will my vehicle be put in?

This may vary depending on the number of vehicles at any event. All class information will be posted at each event.

Can I bring a newer vehicle to the NSRA Autocross?

Yes, We will provide a limited amount of spots for later model vehicles to participate. There will be a registration fee, and information will be posted on the NSRA event page.

How do I find out more about the Autocross program?

NSRA will have a dedicated webpage for autocross information, updates and driver/passenger/vehicle requirements.

We will have monthly tech articles from our partners in the StreetScene magazine.

We will be posting information and photos on the NSRA Autocross Facebook and Instagram pages.

When/where will the NSRA Autocross events held?

Mid-America Street Rod Nationals

Empire Ozark Fairgrounds, Springfield, Missouri

May 23rd & 24th, 2025

Awards Program May 25th, 2025

Street Rod Nationals

Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Kentucky

July 31st, August 1st & August 2nd, 2025

Awards Program August 3rd, 2025