PARTICIPATE IN A RACE AS A COMPETITOR
Competing on the racetrack as a driver involves a magical blend of thrill, challenge, applied skill under adversity, resolute commitment and a certain level of bravery that rivals the most compelling of fast action sports. Comparative examples include surfing, skiing, kite boarding, hang gliding, high-level skateboarding, advanced mountain biking, motorcycle racing and others of similar velocity. All of these require quick thinking, precision coordination, cool headedness under pressure and a generous dose of pure guts — vintage car racing included.
But by design, vintage car racing differs from “regional club racing” such as SCCA, NASA, as well as semi-pro and professional ranks, in that it disallows vehicle contact during racing. If two drivers have contact with one another in the heat of battle, both get black-flagged and must immediately cease racing and retire to the paddock.
Vintage auto racing has been termed “gentleman’s racing” or “racing by sportsman’s rules.” It can be moderately or highly competitive, depending upon the specific sanctioning body, race event and car classification. Some events and particular classes of cars tend to be either more or less competitive than others. And drivers vary widely, of course. Some drivers compete for fun and challenge, whereas others race to win. Neither approach is better or worse than the other. The important fundamental of vintage racing is that it accommodates both attitudes with equal care and oversight.
