2008 Season Autocross Report - April 08
No April Showers

Our third event of the year was held at the Houston Police Academy on April 6th. We had a 2-heat, healthy turn out of 61 drivers. It was a perfect Spring autocross devoid of glazing sun or rainfall - perfect conditions. The course was simple in design using most of the HPA track. It finished with a challenging Chicago Box, followed by a small straightaway to the finish line.

Overall FTD went to Rob Snider in his cool blue Formula Ford who finished with a lightning quick 38.824 seconds. BMW FTD went to Steve Pounds in his red E46 M3 who came in with 40.324 seconds. C Class cars had the largest attendance with 10 drivers.

Here are some shots of all the fun

Jeff Otten came in with a respectable 2nd place finish in C Class with his gorgeous '95 E34

This month we were joined by former Windy City member Mike Poterek and his very quick E30 M3

and of course it just wouldn't be the same without a bit of drama in T&S, yes, it was the computer again! And where was Ricardo anyway?

and a BMW event just wouldn't be a BMW event without a proper contingent of '02 on hand

That Formula Ford was so low to the ground you could shave with it

Whatever the Finley's were conferencing about worked, Vikki went home with 1st place in class E

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Bob Dorchester was in his finest "starter" form

2008 BMWCCA Autocross Reminders

Every participant needs to classify their car. Please go to the classification page and note each and every modification you have performed. We rely upon your honesty so for the sake of all competitors, please be accurate. Don't forget that if you are running tires and wheels larger than OEM you must indicate it. Also note, we are requiring that all BMW competitors for the 2008 season be members in good standing of the BMWCCA in order to be awarded points for each event. If you are not already a member, please visit the national BMWCCA online signup page for membership. There is a convenient link on the left hand bar. Select Join BMW CCA.

Check here to run your car through the system.

Autocross is a low-speed timed driving skill event. It reward car control and skill yet, most importantly, is fun! You don't need to be Mario Andretti and have an M3 Lightweight to do well. It consist of timed solo (i.e., you are alone on the track) laps of a twisty course laid out using traffic cones. The objective is to drive around the course without hitting any cones or missing gates. The main attraction of autocrossing is that it allows drivers to compete in a safe environment. Not only are the speeds low (under 60 miles per hour at the fastest point in a lap) but also the course is laid out such that the only obstacles are soft traffic cones.

Our events are scheduled at the Houston Police Academy.  Events start at 8:30 am (do not enter the gates before this time) and usually conclude by 3:30 pm.  Dress according to weather forecast, wear comfortable shoes (sandals can not be worn while driving), bring a helmet if you have one (SNELL 2000 or higher), nonalcoholic drinks and lunch.  We divide the group in three; one group runs while the other works the corners, and then we switch.  The switch is done as quickly as possible to maximize participants track time and enjoyment.

See our calendar of driving events for a list of the upcoming autocrosses by the BMW CCA and other local clubs.