how does someone start a career in racing?

[alexmurphy]

(first post here!)

Ever since I was a little kid, I've wanted to race cars. It hasn't been the biggest thing in my life, but something about racing always got me. Now, I am alllllmost 17 (3 days ) and I want to know what to do. Is it one of those things where I have to start when I'm a kid or can I get started now?

Just to specify the racing type, I am staying away from nascar. It bores me, and thats all there is to it. Also, I am referring to LEGAL racing. I'm not going to be some street racer in a 1992 pimped out honda who played too much need for speed underground. I know i live in the wrong country for this, but I would love to race GT races, or the like.

I'm not expecting much more of a response than someone laughing at me, but I am serious. Did I miss my chance? Is it even possible to become a racer like this in America? And to start out at my age? And even if it was possible, I would have no idea where to start...help?

[CassiesMan]

Your a little late, but if you work it you might be able to get into racing. Step one is gonna be get outa that shit hole Missouri...

[Polygon]

Originally Posted by CassiesMan

Your a little late, but if you work it you might be able to get into racing. Step one is gonna be get outa that shit hole Missouri...

I agree. Move somewhere with a good road course. I'd start with some racing courses to get the basics down. Then you can move on to some of the grass roots type racing like the SCCA. It's cheap and you can use any car you want as long as it will pass tech.

Also, a lot of racers got their start in go kart racing.

[alexmurphy]

I'm really sorry for bumping this old thread, but I really need more information here.

Step 1 - move out of missouri...to where? i dont know where good tracks are in the US...
Step 2 - What is specifically best for someone who wants to be in racing other than Nascar?
Step 3 - What kind of car would be a good all-around racer?

[Gohan Ryu]

Kart racing is a great way to get experience. Check out this website and see if there are any events coming up near you:

http://www.slka.net/

If that interests you, go watch a few kart races and talk to the people you meet there. They can help you get involved and gradually work your way to bigger events and full sized race cars.

Here's a vid of Michael Schumacher keeping in practice during the off-season:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7Hoqw0oHdg

and an on-board cam on a shifter kart:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR6Wv...eature=related