The PDX Corner - Part I

I guess the first item on the list is who can enter this type of event. Well, just about anybody that has a legal driving license, hold an SCCA membership, and has the desire to learn more about driving. Autocrossers, rally-crossers, future racers, and people that are tired of getting speeding tickets are candidates.

What is a PDX. Well PDX means Performance Driving Experience. In SCCA’s terminology a PDX is a level 1 Time Trial. Per the rules, "Level 1 events are NON-COMPETITIVE and are based on the instruction and practice of performance driving and car handling." This definition is critical.

What does the term NON-COMPETITIVE mean. Well, for starters, there is no timing of the entrants laps - EVER!! Second, beginning and intermediate level students ride with a qualified instructor. Advanced students may or may not have a "riding" instructor. Third, the purpose of the instruction is car handling, often at speeds exceeding open highway limits. And fourth, there are restricted passing zones.

The passing zones are laid-out to provide sufficient distance for a clean pass. There is NO passing in the corners! Passes can only be made with a signal from the car being passed. Usually, this is a "point-by" from the car in front. A hand out the driver’s window. Passing is only on the left, right side passing is a no-no . With restricted passing zones, some problems develop. A student or instructor that misses a faster car coming up and doesn’t issue a "point-by" can cause a back-up in traffic. Although not always used, the "passing flag", a blue flag with a yellow diagonal strip, may be shown to the lead car. It is the responsiblity of the lead car driver to let the following car by at the next passing zone. This can be interesting, especially if the lead car is has more power than the following car. To see a Mini pass a Ferrari is always enjoyable!

The PDX Corner - Part II

OK, so you don’t have an econo box, then bring out your Porsche GT3, Audi R-8 V10, Viper, Mercedes Benz AMG SLS, Ferrari 599, Lamborghini LP570-4, or what ever, as long as it complies with the SCCA Level 1 PDX rules.