SPRINTS

Sprinting is an incredibly popular form of motorsport, which welcomes entry-level drivers but also has many seasoned competitors. Simply explained, it is a high-speed time trial, held over one lap of a racing circuit, or on a course laid out at a disused airfield. It is probably the ultimate in precision driving – the lines you take through the corners have to be exactly right, as the smallest mistake during your lap can cost a class or even an overall win.

There is always a massive range of different machines at a sprint, from near-standard road cars to the fabulously quick single-seaters with Formula 1-type performance. Whatever the depths of your wallet or the heights of your ambitions, sprinting has a class that will welcome you.

Many events are one-offs, so you can enter a variety of sprints without committing to any championship. Beyond that there are numerous regional championships. At the pinnacle is the MSA’s national series, the SBD Motorsport MSA British Sprint Championship.

Where do the events take place?
Sprints are held on racing circuits, as well as disused airfields. There is an enormous range of sprint venues throughout the country, as far apart as Cornwall and Scotland. Several sprints are held each weekend throughout the season, so, wherever you live, you never have to travel far to compete.

How do the events work?
Competitors are given practice runs before the competition proper starts. Usually, you will get two runs against the clock, with your best time counting in the final results. The best part about sprinting is that, if you get your first run wrong, you still have a chance of making amends on the second run.

So how do I start?
You need to apply to the MSA for your National B Speed Competition Licence, available to anyone aged 16 or above. You don’t need to take any tests, or have a medical.

A good starting point is the Hillclimb & Sprint Association. The HSA produces the magazine Speedscene, dedicated to sprinting and its sister activity of hill climbing. This will help you choose where to compete, and what car to use.

Next, go to some sprints and chat with the competitors. Sprinters are very friendly, so don’t be afraid to ask questions but, please, remember to choose the right moment.

But what can I compete in?
The short answer is; virtually anything! There are so many different classes in sprinting, especially for road cars, that you may already be driving your future competition car.

If you decide to buy a car specifically for sprinting, make sure you check it for damage and mechanical soundness before buying. Most competition cars are well looked-after, but, like the old saying; “Let the buyer beware.”

Speedscene and the specialist Motorsport press carry classified ads with racing cars for sale or hire, which will give you some idea of cost.

Am I ready to get out there now?
Once you have your licence, you just need to join a club to compete.

Equipment Required
Sprinting is high on speed and high on fun factor, but it can be potentially dangerous.

Before you enter a sprint, you must get:

• Helmet – buy the best you can afford from a reputable stockist. A good one will cost you up to £300, but the expense is worth it.
• Racesuit – you can buy a good racesuit made from Proban or Nomex for up to £300. Fire inside a car is a very serious issue, so, again, buy the best you can afford.

The following are also highly recommended:

• Racing gloves - for improved grip on the steering wheel and to provide protection for your hands – up to £60
• Racing boots – thin-soled boots help you operate the pedals more smoothly – cost: up to £80
• Fireproof top/long johns – approximately £75
• Fireproof balaclava – approximately £15
• Fireproof socks – approximately £12

There are many good racewear stockists in most areas of the country, and some at motorsport venues.