Practice First

• Once the track is laid out, open practice takes place before the first heat.
• Every sixth week, a Pay & Play night gives you extra time to get comfortable with the track and try out your car.

• Tamiya Iconic Touring Cars – approachable, easy-to-maintain cars that are ideal for learning on-road racing.
• 1/12 Mini – small, nimble cars that are great for learning trackcraft.

1. Track Setup

• The stage units are assembled first.
• The carpet is rolled away from the stage, leaving a 2m gap.
• Barriers are positioned around the circuit: 4 × 4m side sections, 5 × 4m top and bottom sections, with the remaining barriers used for the inner sections.

2. Pit Setup

• Once the track is ready, set up your table and pit area. Chairs are provided, and a limited number of club tables are available to borrow.
• Extension cables must be covered to prevent trip hazards. Spare carpet is available for this purpose – just ask a committee member.
• Pitting should take place on the hard-floor area, keeping access to the toilets clear. Setting up back-to-back with other drivers helps make the best use of the available space.
• The pit area is accessed through the main doors and is all on ground level.

3. Qualifying Heats

• Qualifying heats usually last 4–5 minutes.
• You race against the clock rather than directly against other drivers. Cars leave in the order shown on the heat listings.
• The timing computer beeps as you cross the timing loop. A high-pitched beep indicates you’re improving on your previous best; a lower-pitched beep indicates a slower lap.

4. Marshalling and Track Safety

• Wear a high-visibility vest when marshalling.
• Race, then marshal. Stay alert, keep your eyes on the track and do not use your phone while marshalling.
• If a car crashes, return it to the area where it left the track, where safe to do so.
• Only step onto the track when there is a clear gap and it is safe to do so. Watch approaching cars and follow instructions from the race director.

5. Finals

• Finals usually last 5 minutes and are seeded using Fastest Time of the Day (FTD).
• Cars line up on the grid. A 10-second countdown is followed by a fast warble to signal the start.
• Be aware of faster cars approaching from behind. If you’re being lapped, give them room; moving wide at a corner can help you avoid disrupting their racing line.

6. Timing and Transponders

• Racing is timed electronically using the club’s AMB 4.5 timing system.
• The system is compatible with a wide range of transponders. Drivers can use their own compatible unit.
• A small number of loan transponders are available on race nights. These must be returned after use.
• If you’re unsure whether your transponder is compatible, check with a committee member before race night.

7. Pack Down

• Carpet and barriers are returned to the outside storage unit.
• Chairs and other club equipment are put away in the storage unit as directed.
• Please lend a hand – packing away is everyone’s responsibility and helps us finish the night promptly.

We’re fortunate to have a tuck shop on site, offering hot drinks and a selection of snacks, including crisps, chocolate bars and pasties.

• Arrive early. Watch a few heats, get familiar with the track and ask questions.
• Learn before chasing speed. Concentrate on consistent laps, learning the racing line and enjoying yourself.
• Keep your pit area organised. Make sure your batteries, tools and equipment are easy to find.
• Respect track etiquette. Give faster cars room when being lapped and marshal responsibly.
• Ask for advice. Most club members are happy to help you understand setup, maintenance and race-night procedures.