Test your driving skills in a race car

IF you’re over the age of twelve, the Ballarat Light Car Club is inviting you to cut a few laps on their dirt track in Mitchell Park.

From 9am to 1pm this Saturday, 13 February anyone is welcome to jump in the drivers’ seat of a BLCC automatic or manual racing car alongside a qualified and experienced trainer-driver.

Organiser Darren Watkins said participants at the come-and-try day can experience the excitement of tackling a Motorkhana-autocross track in a front-wheel or all-wheel drive car at speed, and always in a safe environment.

“We do a slow drive around first, giving drivers an idea of the track, which is all flat, and if you do go off the track, it’s all clear paddocks,” he said.

“The day is even appropriate for a 17-year-old with L-plates who wants to learn how to sensibly drive in the dirt, because there are a lot of dirt roads in Victoria.

“The front-wheel-drives are quite easy to control and to learn with, and having an experienced person next to you means you can do things on the track you normally wouldn’t on the road.”

Mr Watkins’ partner, Fiona Henderson has participated in the event before. She said racing around the track is a “thrill.”

“You get to drive the car in a way you can’t on a normal road, so it’s a lot of fun. When my daughter comes out and has a go, you can’t wipe the smile off her face,” she said.

Three sessions will run at 9am, 10am, and 11am – which is for drivers under 18. Bookings need to be made on 0418 110 679.

A helmet, long sleeved top, long pants, and closed shoes are required. A helmet will be provided to those without one.

A temporary one-day licence costs $25. Young people over the age of 12 can participate for $12.50.

If you bring your own car, it will be assessed by a scrutineer.