[klayfish]

I think that is a great point that is being missed here. The term "racing" is being used in somewhat of a wrong context here. By open track events, it does not mean NASCAR short track fender rubbing. At open track events, especially in the novice group, passing is VERY limited. If you are a first timer, you will ride with an approved instructor who will guide you through the course. The novice groups are basically lead/follow format. Passing is allowed on long straightaways, and only with a point-by. i.e. the person being passed must signal to the car behind them which side they want to be passed on. That way, the passer knows where to go, and the passee knows they are being passed and where they are being passed. No surprise passes or bumps. As you get more experience, you move up in groups, but even still there, it is not fender rubbing "racing". Passing is regulated and strict rules are set. Sure, an accident can happen, and sometimes does. But that is true with any event.

Any Club Cranky member can tell you how scared I was to put my car on the open track for the first time last year. I was going to back out and was dragged kicking and screaming to Pocono. But once I understood what it was all about, I can't get enough of it now. It really is an experience!!

Steve