Being a member of the PCA UCR DE (Driver Education) program means that as October or November rolls around, you’re likely stowing your car away for a winter’s rest in storage or your garage. Now, halfway through the winter season, many of us are eagerly anticipating the start of the UCR track season come May. Whether you’re a dedicated track enthusiast or an occasional DE participant, the offseason presents a prime opportunity to prepare for the 2024 track season.
1. Develop a Strategy for 2024
Even casual DE participants will find that crafting a season strategy enhances the upcoming season’s value. Establishing objectives is beneficial. Whether Corner 5 has been a challenge, you aspire to join the solo group, or you’re considering becoming an instructor, setting clear targets paves the way to success before the season’s first event. Engage with the track team or an instructor to formulate a plan for achieving your goals. My own experience underscores this: tackling Corner 1 last season had a domino effect, smoothing out Corners 2 through 4. If track food has lost its appeal, why not explore barbecuing during the offseason and plan trackside BBQ lunches with friends?
2. Tinker with Your Car
A dormant car doesn’t mean your hands should be idle. Now is the perfect time for both minor and major projects. Remember to inspect belts, tires, extinguishers, brake pads, and helmets well ahead of your next event to avoid last-minute rushes—recent years suggest that tires and belts may be scarce.
3. Engage in SIM Racing
Keep your racing skills sharp by joining the UCR SIM racing group led by Pete Rothe. With regular offseason sessions, it’s easy to stay connected through the Discord channel. Lacking a setup? The team can offer advice, or you can visit SIM lounges like HIP in Ajax to experience a variety of supercars and international tracks, honing your racing vision.
4. Expand Your Horizons
The UCR region is privileged to have access to a world-class circuit like CTMP (Mosport). While it offers an unparalleled driving experience, exploring other tracks like Shannonville, Tremblant, and Calabogie can broaden your skills and boost confidence.
These experiences will not only enhance your performance at CTMP but also enrich your overall driving prowess. Conversations with paddock veterans often reveal drivers who eagerly share their experiences from both local and distant tracks.
5. Pursue a Race License
PCA’s club racing program is an exciting and safe avenue into racing, accessible even without becoming an instructor. With the CanAm club racing weekend in August, now is the ideal time to start the process of obtaining your race license.
The steps are straightforward: complete some paperwork, undergo a medical evaluation, attend a race school, and you’re set. Curious about racing? Club racers are usually more than willing to share their experiences. Participating in a race weekend, whether by teaming up with a racer, volunteering, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, offers invaluable insights into the capabilities of these cars and the camaraderie within the UCR community.
Before you know it, the season will be upon us—time for a tech inspection, packing up the BBQ, and heading to HWY 57 to reunite with friends who’ve been just as eagerly awaiting the day’s first event. With a bit of offseason preparation, you’re on track for an unforgettable season. </>
