There’s more details in the FAQs below, but here’s an overview of how to go about it:

 

(If you can, it's a good idea to come along to a race as a spectator and see what goes on and chat to the competitors. They’re a friendly bunch and will be happy to guide you and answer questions.)

 

Firstly, decide on where you want to have a go. From there, there are some options:

 

• If it’s a “Give It A Go” event you can get all the necessary licences and entries for one very low price. A one-off offer for first timers!

• If not, then you can get a day licence and club membership for that event.

• If you’ve decided that you want to do several events, you will need to apply for full membership of the NHCA. This will come with the special code you will need to apply for an ACU licence. When you get that, you can enter events as a regular competitor.

 

Now, how to enter an event:

 

When the Regulations and entry forms are available, you can download them from the NHCA website. The Regs will give you all the details of who to send the entries to, how much it’ll cost, etc.  If you’re entering on the Give It A Go offer, then put a note in with the entry stating this. If you are going to need a day licence/membership then put a note in to tell the secretary this.  Then check that you’ve got envelope addressed to the secretary with an SAE, cheque for the right amount and an entry form filled out and signed. (Please note that we only accept payment for entry fees by cheque or, in exceptional circumstances, cash.)

 

Now you have licensing and an entry sorted out, next is the bike. You can race practically anything with two wheels, three if it’s a sidecar! There are some rules on preparation, a short version here and the full version here. Basically it has to be safe, not leave oil and fuel all over the track.and have numbers that the timekeepers and marshals can read.

 

Now the event itself. Most venues provide camping for the night before, sometimes free. Turning up the night before means that you have time to make sure everything is OK and sort out any problems. If you turn up in the morning, it’s best to turn up too early and give yourself time again. You need to walk the track before you ride it. This is vital, and constitutes part of the signing-on regulations. This way, you will get to know where it goes and any things to look out for.  Even the most seasoned competitors are expected to do this, as repairs to the track can affect the way it is ridden. Your bike will need to be scrutineered before you compete, so don’t be afraid to ask one of the other competitors about where this is taking place (sometimes the scrutineers are mobile, other times the inspections happen in a designated area). If any problems arise during inspection, there are always plenty of people around to help you get round them and we’re always happy to help a newcomer!

 

As for the event itself, remember that practice is just that: practice. Don’t try to beat records on your first try. Take it easy, learn the track and make it to the top!

 

And most importantly: have fun!