Interested in getting on track, but not sure how to do it?  You have come to the right place.  This page will walk you through the process and have you ready for your trackday.  This page will continue to be updated with links to videos; tech articles; and other useful information.  Come back often.

 

What is an open track day?

There are a lot of answers to this question, but in general, this is an event for anyone who would like to drive their personal car on a closed circuit.  These events are not competitive, and instead are focused on getting track time and becoming a more experienced driver.  Safety is the number one rule, and having fun is the goal.

 

Do I need prior experience?

No. At 3 Balls Racing, we welcome and encourage first time participants.  Literally, everyone who has been on track had to be a beginner at one time.  Throughout the history of 3 Balls Racing, we will have succcessfully hosted hundreds of first time participants.

 

Do I need a race car?

No.  What you need is a car in good mechanical condition.  Most beginner drivers will not come close to pushing their car to the car's limits at their first event.  Make sure your car meets the requirements of the tech inspection (http://3ballsracing.com/downloads/download/2-uncategorised/1-tech-inspection-form-pdf), and focus on getting some time behind the wheel.  Upgrades can come later.

 

What else do I need?

You need a helmet.  It must be rated for automotive use (Snell SA and/or FIA rating).  Motorcycle helmets are not allowed.  Here is a link discussing the different ratings:https://build.torqued.io/deciphering-sfi-vs-fia-8859-helmet-standards/

 

Do you rent helmets?

Normally, yes.  3 Balls Racing does have a limited number of rental helmets.  During the COVID restrictions, we have to pause this program.  As of January 1, 2021, the rental program is still paused.

 

Where is a good place to get a helmet?

The real question here is: which helmet and size to get?  Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of places to physically try on a lot of helmets from different manufacturers.  If you can get there, the PRI show in Indianpolis is the best option.  However, this isn't practical for most people.  Look for local race shops in your area.  Several Ballers recommend Averill Racing in the Metro Detroi area: http://www.racing-stuff.com/.  For online purchases, you will need to measure your head or know your hat size.  Here is a video explaining how to measure and what you are looking for: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsEpVoWcGws

 

Once you have determined a size, there are a lot of online sources.  The places listed below have been used by Ballers with good results.  Please keep in mind that counterfeit safety gear is an issue, so choose a source you trust.

Summit Racing 

https://www.summitracing.com/

 

Pegasus Racing

https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/

 

Pit Stop USA

https://pitstopusa.com/c-131687-safety-equipment-helmets.html

 

 

 

3 Balls Racing accepts payments via check and PayPal.  If you would like pay with a credit card, PayPal is the solution.  You do NOT need to have a PayPal account to pay through PayPal.  3 Balls Racing does not accept credit card numbers over the phone or through email.  Please do not send us your credit card number.

3 Balls Racing uses four run groups at our events unless specifically noted in the event description.  Below is a summary of the groups.  When you register for an event, you must select the group which best matches your experience and vehicle preparation.

 

Group 4 - This group is for beginners and people with only a few events under their belt.  The cars in this group are street cars running on street tires.  Passing is by point only and in designated areas.

 

Group 3 - This is the novice group for people who have completed several events and are ready to move out of the beginner group.  At this level, car modifications are typically limited to safety items, upgraded brake pads, and performance tires.  Passing is by point only and in designated areas.

 

Group 2 - This is the place for advanced drivers with 10 or more events in the books.  By now, car prep includes safety items, race type brake pads, R-compound tires, and possibly track only race cars.  Passing is by point anywhere on the track.

 

Group 1 - UPDATE for 2015: An approved head and neck restraint is required in this group (ie, HANS, Simpson Hybrid).  Foam neck collars are not acceptable. This is the top level group reserved for expert drivers.  To be in this group, you must have experience with wheel to wheel driving or open passing.  If you aren't sure, ask before joining this group.  Most of the vehicles in this group have full safety systems as do the drivers.  In the instances where we have open wheel vehicles, this is where they go.  Passing is open anywhere on the track.

3 Balls Racing requires Snell SA2005 or newer helmets.  It is the responsibility of the registrant to meet this standard.  Please do not ask if you can use a motorcycle helmet.

Additional information