Advanced Driving
Believe it or not, motorsports in Alberta are actually quite easy to get into! And not only that, there is a wide variety to try out. In the warmer months, auto X, drifting and the track are the go to places for motorsports enthusiasts. While winter has its own rally X...on ice. Most of the clubs that are hosting competitive events also offer inexpensive schools at the beginning of the season that will be beneficial to drivers of all skill levels.
Most of these events only require an approved helmet and a car in good working condition. It's good to keep in mind though, you will not have insurance while participating in the competitive events, so try not to be too overzealous your first time out!
Auto X
The ultimate test of car control. Auto X (Auto Cross) is a small track marked out by cones usually held in a parking lot. It will challenge both you and your vehicle as you race against the clock around a tricky course full of turn arounds, slaloms, and sweeping curves. Usually costs $40 for entry.
Here's an Autox video from our Standard Shift instructor, Orrin. Nice driving!
Time attack
If you have a need for speed, the track is a great place to go. Rad Torque Raceway has a 2.7km road course. Your fist time out can be quite intimidating, but don't worry, you'll have an instructor with you at all times until they believe you can go off on your own and drive safely on the track. All passing is done by point by only and drivers are put into run groups based on skill, allowing everyone to be safe and have fun lap after lap. Around $200 - $300 per entry.
Rad Torque Raceway with Track Junkies
Winter Rally X
You'll be surprised how fun winter driving can be after some experience on the ice. Winter Rally X is popular event among Albertan enthusiasts. Much like Auto X, Rally X is a course usually marked out by cones (or plowed out in snow) on either a lake or large icy parking lot. The ice is checked for thickness before every event, but it is still at your own risk. On the ice you will learn more about your car in five minutes than years of driving on the street. You will learn the difference proper tires make and quickly identify the cause and effects of improper driving technique. Rally X skills transfer over into daily winter driving and cause dramatic improvements in a driver's confidence and driving skill.
Edmonton Rally Club and Northern Alberta Sports Car Club
Below is a video of our instructor, Orrin, pre-running the course at one of the S.A.S.C ice schools.
drifting//
drag racing//
Rally x
More great options for enthusiasts. Expect lots of car wear and good times! Other than random annual events across Alberta, the best place to try out these events are at Castrol Raceway in Nisku with the various car clubs that manage the events.
Drifting - Spec D
Rally X - Edmonton Rally Club
Drag Racing - Rad Torque Raceway
Motorcycles
Track attack
Cars not your thing? Looking for a fun and safe way to get that need for speed out of your system? Motorcycle lapping might be the answer. Much like with cars, lapping on the track is a great way to improve your skills. Motorcycle lapping is an all out physical workout with no shortage of things to be constantly improving. Bike control, looking where you want to go, body position, and throttle control are among many. Novices go out on paced laps with experienced instructors to learn basic lines in controlled conditions before being let out by themselves. Passing is also regulated depending on the group's experience level.
Any sport bike or super moto can be used. Full racing gear is required and probably the biggest expense besides the bike itself. We recommend buying used gear as long as it's in good condition and fits well!
Our local organizer is
Motorcycle
racing
Maybe you want a real challenge.
Nothing is more exhilarating than motorcycle racing. We may not have MotoGP in Alberta, but we do have the Edmonton Motorcycle Racing Association. Unlike track attack/lapping, you'll need a fully prepped race bike to race. There are an abundance of classes to race in from novice to expert; lightweight to liter.
At the very least, if you like bikes, you should probably watch a race weekend!
