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How to Get Involved- Simraceway Series

The tantalizing dream of going racing is one that Simraceway prides itself on fulfilling. 

Our Simraceway Series is designed specifically to give anyone with the passion to race on a world-class circuit an opportunity to experience the excitement of mixing it up on track behind the wheel of cutting edge performance machinery. The series provides a high-quality racing environment that is akin to a one-make series but without the high price point.

There are three cars to choose from – the popular KTM X-BOW Comp R, Formula 3 and Formula 4 cars. The ‘arrive-and-drive’ format of the Series means you simply bring your racing, boots, gloves, helmet, and HANS device! You’re welcome to bring your own race suit, but our Simraceway professionals can supply those for you as well.

Many of the participants in the Simraceway Series graduate to IMSA Michelin Pilot Cup, IMSA Prototype Challenge, and Michelin Le Mans Cup. We also see a lot of drivers participate in manufacturer one-make series such as Ferrari Challenge, Maserati Trofeo, Lotus Cup, Porsche Carrera Cup, or the Pure Mclaren GT series.

The Simraceway Performance Driving Center boasts the lowest instructor-to-student ratio in the industry, a premium facility, the finest driving instructors, and access to Sonoma Raceway’s 12-turn, 2.52-mile road circuit.

How To Get Involved

If you’ve decided to see if you have what a takes to compete, there are several paths to becoming involved and enjoying all of what the Simraceway Series has to offer. First is the Simraceway School of Racing. Participants will have access to one of the most advanced fleets of school racing cars in the world, and the wealth of knowledge of our incredible instructors. Upon completion of Stages 1, 2, and 3 of the Racing School, you are qualified to compete in the Simraceway Series, and your dream of competing in this fantastic program is about to be realized!

If you already have your SCCA Full Competition License, simply submit your driver CV to [email protected] for review and approval. After reviewing your CV, our Chief Instructor will either determine you’re qualified to move directly into the Simraceway Series or a one day Driver Development Course is needed to fine-tune your skills. Once completed and you’ve participated in one of our Race Clinics, it’s time to go racing.

And finally, if you currently have your FIA Competition License, you’ll go through the same process as our SCCA licensed members. Email over your driver CV and move directly to the Simraceway Series after approval, or simply complete a Race Clinic and you’re good to go!

What To Expect

Costs for the Simraceway Series are extremely reasonable (in as far as Motorsport goes). A weekend event with 4 races and plenty of seat time, starts at $9,950 for our entry-level X-BOW Cup class. This includes everything, including premium hospitality. The only items not included are travel, accommodation, and any crash damage costs you might incur.

The Launchpad To Your Racing Career

If you have desires of a racing career in TCR, GT4, LMP3, FIA Formula Car or other leading racing series, the KTM X-BOW Cup USA or Formula Car Cup (which is also part of the Simraceway Series) is the ultimate acid test, and potentially the launchpad to the next level of your racing career. Or, perhaps you simply want to race against the best up-and-coming drivers in cutting edge machines with a chance of the top spot on the podium. Whatever your dream is, the Simraceway Series and the KTM X-BOW Cup USA can help make it come true!

Join the T1 Club: Simraceway’s Private Motorsport Club

If you’ve experienced the adrenaline rush that comes with driving at speed on a racetrack, you’re probably itching for more. 

The T1 Club Program at Simraceway is our private motorsports club for graduates of our Performance driving and racing school programs. It’s for drivers looking to explore their passion at a deeper and more frequent basis than a few track days a year can offer. The T1 Club will help you develop your skills beyond what standard courses and schools can offer, and transform you into the driver you know you can be.

Get More Track Time

If you plan on joining a private motorsports club like the T1 Club, you should expect opportunities to enjoy it. To that end, members have access to an unparalleled 60 on-track dates a year which are hosted between four and eight times per month. These days are exclusive to T1 Club members and can be used in either our Full or Express days format. 

Full days consist of four or five 30-minute track sessions with breaks for performance debriefs and lunch, while an Express day offers two 30-minute sessions with a break in between. As the name suggests, a Full day will run from 8 AM to 3 or 4 PM, while Express days are usually offered in the morning from 8 to 10 AM allowing you to get some track time in before work or other important matters. 

If you have a fully track-prepped race car, or at least a racing license, you can also use your Full days on Sonoma’s Open Testing days to get it prepared for events. We’re also working hard to increase the number of T1 Club track days to bring members even more value.

Need to get some work done when you’re at the track? Our clubhouse is well equipped, allowing drivers to check in or take video calls and attend to work between sessions.

Become a Better Driver

Both Full and Express days include free base level instruction with our expert professional instructors posted at key corners of the track taking notes to help you debrief during breaks. During the debrief, they’ll give you key takeaways that you directly apply to your next session to help you cement improvements and reduce your lap times. 

Additionally, T1 Club members have access to schedule 1:1 private coaching with our professional instructors, all of whom have decades of experience in professional racing careers. It is by far the best way to improve your skillset and get the most out of your passion.  

Additional Membership Benefits and Services

T1 Club members receive more than just expanded track time and coaching services. We know that some of the best cars for driving on the track are not ideal on public roads and highways, so all members receive complimentary car storage for one vehicle at the track. Members also have the option of expanding their storage options to up to five vehicles for an additional fee.

Vehicles stored with Simraceway are also eligible for the Arrive-and-Drive Pit Lane Concierge Service, wherewith advance notice we will get your car cleaned and prepped for the day so all you have to do is show up. If your vehicle requires maintenance, you can use Simraceway’s mechanical support at a preferential rate depending on the vehicle. 

Lastly, members can bring up to three non-driving guests with them at any time, and they’ll have access to the clubhouse during normal business hours. Members also receive six annual guest passes. Qualified guest drivers can bring their own car as long as it meets mechanical standards and they are suitably experienced per Simraceway’s sole discretion. 

How to Join the T1 Club

In order to qualify for the Tier 1 club, you must be referred by an existing member or one of our instructors. That typically occurs through participation in our racing schools or high performance driving programs, which we strongly encourage as it gives us the opportunity to get to know you, your current driving skill level and future targets. You’ll also need to have graduated from either Stage 2 or Stage 3 of the Performance Driving Stage programs. This is to ensure safety and a high standard of driving performance on the track so you get the most of your membership.

If you are interested in joining, please fill out this form to apply

Introducing Dedicated F3 Parts Stores

At the higher levels of motorsport like F3, properly enjoying and experiencing your vehicle on the track takes significant effort and involvement. The logistics of spare parts, vehicle maintenance, and making sure your car is not only fast on the track, but safe as well, can be a major undertaking.

Simraceway already offers numerous world-class benefits and is now proud to offer its Turn 1 Club members exclusive access to a dedicated Parts Store for their F3 race machines. Allow Simraceway to handle the headache and manage the logistics while you enjoy your car to its maximum with a Parts Store.

Outstanding Benefits

Having your own dedicated Parts Store comes with some terrific benefits:

  • Fast fixes – Because you will have spare parts allocated specifically for you, there will be no risk of another driver or car taking the key part(s) you need should you have a racing incident
  • Critical parts – Speaking of parts, the Parts Store will be fully stocked with critical parts and items that your F3 car needs to run at its very best
  • Wrapped in your livery – Many of the parts you need from your Parts Store can be adorned in your personalized livery
  • Dedicated parts trolley – When you enroll in the Parts Store program, you’ll get your own customized parts trolley complete with your name and car number emblazoned on it. It also comes with storage for your helmet as well as additional personal area storage and will be rolled out with your car each time it’s used

What’s Offered

The list of available parts on offer in this program is extensive and covers nearly every facet of your F3 machine. The Parts Store program comes in three distinct packages: Max ($26,595), Medium ($14,750), and Baseline ($10,940). 

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s included with each package:

Maximum = Everything listed is included – BUY NOW
Medium = Front Suspension, Complete nose assembly/design not included, Wheels/Tires, (2) Half shaft assembly – BUY NOW
Baseline = Complete nose assembly/design not included, Wheels/Tires – BUY NOW

Below you can explore how each section can meet your driving needs…

Front suspension

  • (1) Front pushrod assembly
  • (1) Front track rod assembly
  • (1) Left/right front lower wishbone
  • (1) Front top wishbone

Rear Suspension

  • (1) Rear lower wishbone
  • (1) Rear toe links
  • (1) Rear top wishbone
  • (1) Rear pushrod assembly

Bodywork

  • (1) Complete nose assembly w/ mainplane (design not included)
  • (1) Rear wing assembly (design not included)
  • (1) Windscreen replacement

Wheels and Tires

  • (4) ATS wheels, Front/Rear set
  • (4) Pirelli tires, Front/Rear set
  • Mounting/balancing

Gearbox/Driveline

  • (1) 12/34 ring and pinion assembly
  • (1) 1st through 5th gears
  • (2) Half shaft assembly (two per car)

Register Soon!

Parts Stores will be offered once per year as parts need to be batched purchased and the trolleys need to be custom ordered. If you’re interested in participating in the Parts Store program, orders need to be received no later than August 31, and orders will be delivered ahead of the October F3 race.

Enjoy Your F3 Car As It Was Meant To Be

You know as well as anyone that the joy of driving a Formula 3 car at speed on a top-tier track like the one at Simraceway is hard to describe. With the new Parts Store program, you can enjoy that experience to the fullest without worrying about spare parts or how to keep your car running at its peak. Give us a call at 800-733-0345 and register for the Parts Store program today!

What’s Happening in August at Simraceway

August means more amazing track experiences at Simraceway.

If you’re interested in learning more about KTM experiences, performance driving, or driving education and go-karting, there’s plenty to look forward to on Simraceway’s August schedule. 

The KTM X-Bow Cup USA series and Simraceway Series Formula Car Cup continue in August, but we quickly sold out of teen safe driver training classes, so we’ve added the following dates:

Sunday, August 25th, from 9 am to 4 pm, at $695

Here are some other events and programs to explore:

August Spotlight: Check Out Simraceway’s Performance Driving Program and Control Clinic

Can you drive your own car on the track at Sonoma Raceway? Yes! Simraceway’s Performance Driving Program can take you and your car through three stages of practice, training, education, and on-track experience. 

If you have a car that’s fifteen years or newer with tires and brakes in good condition, you might be eligible for the Performance Driving program. Check with our staff at [email protected] to find out if your car is eligible. If it is, be sure to check your owner’s manual and insurance policy and follow guidelines to be ready for your Performance Driving session. Look for sessions throughout August, but don’t take too long — some sessions are already full!

Explore open dates for…

Performance Driving Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3

Learn the Limits And Master Your Car: Car Control Clinic

Using the skidpad and autocross course, Simraceway’s Car Control Clinic shows you how to control your car under extreme conditions. You’ll learn how to correct oversteer, balance your car while drifting, make mid-corner adjustments, and properly rotate your car. Here, you’ll learn how to handle your car safely at or even slightly over its limits. Requirements are like the Performance Driving Program — check with our staff in advance to learn if your vehicle meets the Car Control Clinic’s specifications.

Car Control Clinic dates are currently sold out.

Before School Starts: Take Your Teen for Safe Driving Education at Simraceway

Simraceway’s Teen Safe Driving Course is one of the most highly-rated experiences on TripAdvisor and for good reason. The full-day course covers all the practical skills teens need to drive safely, including emergency braking, accident avoidance, proper steering techniques, and skid recovery. Teens age 15 1/2 and older with their permit or driver’s license will practice using fleet vehicles alongside Simraceway’s instructors. The Teen Safe Driving Course is eligible for part of the 60 hours of required pre-license driving time.

New session added on August 25th, from 9 am to 4 pm.

SCCA Racing School Options At Simraceway in August

If you’ve been thinking of getting your Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) license and going club racing, Simraceway’s Racing School continues in August. Held in KTM X-Bow cars, the 3-day program is available to drivers aged 14 and above. You do not need a driver’s license for this on-track experience and training. Can you bring fans, friends, and family? Sure can — and you might even rent a GoPro to record your performance.

These are a few more highlights in August at Simraceway. The KTM X-Bow Cup and Formula Car Cup continue with their August dates of practice and racing. The Kart Racing School also offers several August dates. T1 Club Members: You have some open days coming up in August, and Karting enthusiasts will see dates for Turn 1 Club Karting. Check out Simraceway’s August schedule now and take advantage of these great experiences at the track.

T1 Club – Introducing Club Racing for Formula Cars.

Introducing club racing days, a new high-frequency race option for T1 club members driving open-wheel Formula cars. You can now request a race ON ANY T1 CLUB DAY!     

Is this for me?

Maybe you’ve been thinking about competing in the Simraceway Series but aren’t sure whether you’re ready? Or maybe you’re an existing racer who wants to drive competitively more frequently? Perhaps you’re already campaigning a professional program and want as much training and practice as you can get? If so, then YES, club races are for you.  T1 Club will offer these informal club races on any T1 weekday that 4 or more members request to race.  

What Are Club Racing Days?

Club Racing is a new opportunity for the T1 Club at Simraceway. This is a fresh new racing-oriented way for you to take advantage of your membership and give you the additional experience you need to find out if racing in a more formal series is right for you. We think you’ll love the fun, flexibility, freedom, and opportunity to develop racing experience in a welcoming environment with expert coaching that accompanies all T1 days. This new club racing program is currently open to Formula 3, Formula 4 and Formula Pro Mazda drivers. If successful as an offering, we will expand it to other classes and types of vehicles. 

This is an informal weekday racing program that doesn’t have the points, prestige, pressure or pricing of our main championship series. We encourage you to organize your own races with other T1 Club drivers. A minimum of four drivers are required. 

You can book informal club races with other T1 Club Formula car drivers on any one of the T1 days through the summer. All you need is three other drivers in order to schedule a race.

How Do I arrange a T1 Club Race?

We strongly encourage self organization, so please feel free to get your own group of racers together for a given date. We can book the race with as little as 72hrs notice (assuming your vehicle is prepped and ready to race) and subject to ALS availability. Though we recommend at least a week’s notice.  

Whether you’re a Formula 3, Formula 4  or a Pro Mazda driver, you can have an amazing time and gain experience competing on the track with fellow T1 club drivers without the pressure of a formal weekend of qualifying and racing. If you have a group of four or more, put your heads together, pick a date, and email or call us to make final arrangements. If you have three drivers, please contact us. We may have ideas for another driver who could make up the field for your race.

Costs?

Whilst your T1 days are included in your membership, there is a small surcharge for us to operate the race:  $495 per driver. This covers ALS and corner workers. Please be aware, this does not include timed scoring or data analysis. Though those are available through the addition of a private coach to the day. Consumables, support and coaching are charged in the normal manner.

T1 Club: Introducing Unlimited T1 Days

There are lots of benefits to a Turn 1 Club membership. And, for those that have stored two cars or joined our F3 or KTM ownership program, one of those perks now includes unlimited T1 Days. While standard T1 membership offers 16 full days and 40 express days (56 total), this new benefit for our most active members provides many more days on Sonoma Raceway each year, between 60-80 full track days.

On “Full” format T1 Days, drivers complete four or five 30-minute driving sessions. While you are driving on the track, our professional driving instructors are watching and taking notes. During breaks, they will debrief you on how to improve your driving technique feedback on what you’re doing right. “Full” format T1 Days typically run from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. In addition to debriefing breaks following your driving sessions, you’ll also have a break for lunch.

“Express” T1 driving days are morning sessions, usually running from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. “Express” mornings include two 30-minute driving sessions and one break for debriefing.

Members with racing competition licenses (SCCA, IMSA, NASCAR, FIA, or other) and track-prepped cars that conform to SCCA regulations can also take part in Open Testing days.

T1 Days run seamlessly through Simraceway’s Arrive and Drive Pit Lane Concierge Service. Our Concierge service will clean your car, set tire pressures, torque your wheels, and have your car ready to begin your sessions upon your arrival at the track.

And, don’t forget that members can bring guest drivers and three non-driver guests, who will have clubhouse access during your T1 Day. Guest drivers must be pre-qualified by Simraceway and can bring their own car as long as it’s vetted for safety. You may bring up to 6 guest drivers per year, with each entitled to up to two T1 Days.

Everyone participating in a T1 Day must meet minimum levels of driving expertise. For your safety and that of other members, everyone must have completed a Stage 2 Performance Driving course. Completion of Stage 3 Performance Driving training is strongly encouraged.  So, don’t forget: If you’ve bought a car at Simraceway or are storing two at the facility, scheduling your driving days is flexible and unlimited. Improve your driving skills and use your membership to its fullest.

T1 Member vehicles in storage

To request addition of this benefit to your club, please email [email protected].

If you not yet a T1 Club member but are interested in membership, please apply here.

McLaren 720s – Exclusive Preview

The new McLaren 720s was at our Sonoma facility last Friday for an exclusive preview ahead of the cars general release later this year. The 720s replaces the 650s model in the super series line and is already sold out through 2018. Hailed a Ferrari beater, the 720s  is lighter, more powerful and faster than the new Ferrari 488 GTB and we look forward to welcoming it into the fleet soon. If you would like to be notified when this car is available in our line up, please ensure you are signed up to our newsletter here 

In the interim the McLaren 570s 570GT and 650s are all now available in our newly launched McLaren Driving Experiences, click here to book your seat.

McLaren 720s – Exclusive Preview

The new McLaren 720s will be at our Sonoma facility this Friday for an exclusive preview ahead of the cars general release later this year. The 720s replaces the 650s model in the super series line and is already sold out through 2018. Hailed a Ferrari beater, the 720s  is lighter, more powerful and faster than the new Ferrari 488 GTB. Come judge for yourself and learn how you can get in the driving seat ahead of the waiting list.

This event is free but spaces are limited with priority given to our past and present drivers. If you would like to attend please sign up here.