Beginner’s Handbook: Understanding a Come & Try Day

Entering the realm of organized competitive motorsport can be daunting, with various questions about licensing, vehicle specifications, and safety regulations swirling in your mind.

This uncertainty can create obstacles for those interested in motorsport but unsure how to take the first step.

A Come and Try Day is specifically designed to eliminate that ambiguity and introduce you to the sport in a controlled and welcoming environment.

These events are non-competitive and untimed, so there’s no pressure to perform, and you won’t find any timing sheets at the conclusion of the day.

The emphasis is on participation, enjoyment, and learning.

Typically, participants can use their own standard road vehicle, provided it meets basic safety criteria, with assistance from the event organizers. This means there’s no need for extensive car preparations, allowing individuals to experience motorsport in a familiar setting. Some Come and Try Days also offer loan vehicles provided by the organisers.

Safety is paramount at every Come and Try Day, with experienced officials and volunteers overseeing every facet of the event.

To ensure everyone is clear on what to expect, drivers receive briefings about track procedures, flag signals, and safe driving practices prior to getting behind the wheel.

Many events also feature instructors or seasoned club members who can provide advice on techniques such as braking, cornering, and vehicle control.

According to Motorsport Australia’s General Manager for Members, Clubs, and Growth, Michael Melilli, the structured format of a Come and Try Day enables participants to systematically develop their skills while grasping the responsibilities linked to driving in a motorsport environment.

“Skill development is a significant advantage of participating in a Come and Try event,” Melilli stated.

“Experiencing a controlled motorsport setting allows drivers to better comprehend their vehicle’s strengths and limitations.

“Participants commonly come away with enhanced vehicle control, spatial awareness, and boosted confidence behind the wheel.

“These gains can benefit everyday driving as well, leading to more informed and skilled drivers on the roads.”

Moreover, Come and Try Days are vital for community-building, introducing newcomers to local car clubs and the wider motorsport network.

Connecting with individuals who share similar interests, engaging with officials, and exploring various event formats can open the door to further opportunities, such as regular club days, officiating roles, or competitive racing.

Significantly, Come and Try Days provide an affordable entry point.

Introductory licences are typically available for single-day participation, helping to keep costs reasonable while still adhering to nationally recognized regulations and top-tier safety standards.

Come and Try Days require a $40 Introductory licence, with the necessary forms supplied by the event organizer on the day.

If participants wish to continue, they can apply that $40 as credit towards an annual licence.

By minimizing financial and administrative hurdles, these events create a straightforward and supportive pathway into Australian motorsport for drivers of all ages and experience levels.

For answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding Motorsport Australia-approved Come and Try Days, visit our website.

Motorsport Australia also shares details of all Come and Try events every Wednesday across our social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram) as part of the Weekend Warm-Up, our weekly roundup of all permitted events for the upcoming weekend.