2013 Drivers Education Events

Read about the tracks:

Watkins Glen (May 10-12)

As you probably know, Watkins Glen International (nicknamed “The Glen”) is an auto race track located near Watkins Glen, New York, at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. Long known around the world as the home of the United States Grand Prix, which it hosted for 20 consecutive years (1961–1980), The Glen has been home to road racing of nearly every class for over 50 years, including Formula One, the World Sportscar Championship, Can-Am, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and the IndyCar Series.

We run the 3.4 miles Grand Prix configuration which is enjoyed by both new as well as experienced drivers. On Friday we will host a lapping day for instructors and very advanced students. The DE will run Saturday and Sunday.

Our spousal auxiliary will be arranging activities for those who are not interested in being at the track.

Nelson Ledges Road Course (June 14-16)

Nelson Ledges is a two-mile, seven turn road course, with a rich history of sports car and motorcycle road racing. It is a user-friendly facility that is well suited to a variety of racing and motor sports related activities. In years past, the Longest Day of Nelson, a 24-hour race was run with “Showroom Stock” through racing prototypes. Come run with us and capture some of this spirit.

Pitt Race (Aug 10-11)

This event is perfect for first time participants! For all “newer” DE divers we structure the event to include a combination DE and Car Control Clinic. In addition to time on the main track we include specialized, in-car instruction with specific activities on the Skid Pad, Slalom Course and Threshold Braking Course on the VDA.

Mid-Ohio (Sept 20-22)

Put this on your calendar now! Mid-Ohio is beautiful mid-September. On Friday we will host a lapping day for instructors and very advanced students. The DE will run Saturday and Sunday.

Our spousal auxiliary will be arranging activities for those who are not interested in being at the track.

• Track Information: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
• Registration: http://msreg.us/ARPCA-MidO-2013
• Event Chair: Dale Rabeneck
  • Email: dalerrabeneck@gmail.com
  • Mobile: +1 (412) 877-4361
• Event Materials: Here

All types of vehicles are welcome!

In addition to Porsches, we have Audis, BMWs, Corvettes, Lotuses, Mazdas, Minis, Subarus (just to name a few) come and participate. All that is required is that you have valid state inspection and a safety inspection completed by your local mechanic.

First time on Track?

First time? No worries. Our club excels in making sure your experience is safe and enjoyable. You will be paired with an instructor who will be knowledgeable in driving your type of car at speed. Your day will begin with a drivers meeting, move to classroom instruction and then out onto the track. We run rain or shine – many drivers find that running in the rain is just as enjoyable – the major difference is everything just happens at lower speeds. You will also need a SNELL 2005-rated helmet. All of this will be covered in the detailed student information packet that we’ll provide before the event.

Watch what it’s like to do a DE here:

Registration Process

Driving event registration is conducted online through MotorsporReg (MSR) at http://arpca.motorsportreg.com. We use MSR to manage the events and communicate with you about up-coming events as well as specific details about events for which you have registered.  If you have not used MSR before there is a 2 step process:

• Create a username, password and a profile which includes information about your cars and driving experience,
• Register for specific events

Registration for DE’s typically open January 1st of the specific year. The earlier you sign up the better we are able to plan – there is limited downside.  When registering for an event you will be asked for a credit card.  We will not charge your credit card for the event until approximately 60 days before the event.  If you need to cancel before this time there is no penalty.

Keep your data current!  It is important that we have a current valid email address for you. Please remember to update your information in the future should there be any changes.

What happens if the event is sold out? You are put on a wait list. Both Instructor and Driver applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis, provided all eligibility requirements have been met. There are a limited number of Student spaces available for our events. This number may vary from one venue to another. The event registrar will inform you of your status (confirmed or waitlist) before the event.

Maintain your Driving Resume in MSR

In order to place you in the correct run group we need you to maintain your “Driving Resume” in MSR.  ARPCA maintains in our online log book all driving events that you have participated in since 2009.  We need you to supplement this with any other driving experience that you have had “at speed.”   Include:

• A list of other Drivers Education Events that you have attended with other groups and organizations.
• Professional schools that you have attended (such as Bertil Roos, Skip Barber, Porsche, etc.)
• Club Racing (BMW CCA, Porsche Club Racing, etc.)
• Any specific coaching sessions,
• Autocross and time trial experience,
• etc.

A recommended format is shown to the right.

Note: There are differences between SCCA and NASA racing and Performance Driving at an ARPCA DE. We will evaluate the total body of driving experience when placing an individual into  a run group.