The Gala Performance Guide to Low Cost Racing
Stepping into the world of motorsport might seem daunting – especially when considering the financial aspects. However, there are numerous low-cost racing series in the UK that offer an exceptional experience for both beginners and seasoned racers.
These races provide a platform to compete, learn, and ultimately, have fun. Here are our five favourite low-cost racing series, perfect for those eager to gain those vital signatures required to upgrade from a club racing license to National B.
The Thrill of Endurance: The Citroen C1 Challenge
The Citroen C1 Challenge
The Citroën C1 Challenge is a thrilling endurance racing series that offers an affordable entry point into the world of motorsport. The series, open to British Racing & Sports Car Club (BRSCC) drivers, involves a fleet of identical, first-generation Citroën C1s. These races range from short, 3-hour sprints to gruelling 24-hour marathons, providing a variety of challenges for every type of racer.
Competitors in the Citroën C1 Challenge can tackle some of the UK's most iconic circuits. The thrill of racing at renowned locations such as Donington Park and Silverstone adds an extra layer of excitement to the series.
The Costs
While the thrill of racing is priceless, the Citroën C1 Challenge also offers impressive value for money. Prices start from a mere £1200 for a 3-hour race, making it an affordable option, especially when costs are shared among a team of 3-4 drivers.
Small Engines, Big Excitement: The City Car Cup
The City Car Cup
The City Car Cup is another excellent low cost racing series for BRSCC drivers. This sprint racing series features cars with small engines, allowing for close competition and unpredictable outcomes.
The Costs
The City Car Cup offers phenomenal value, with prices starting from just £375 per race weekend. This fee covers 2-3 races, making it one of the most affordable ways to enjoy the adrenaline rush of motorsport.
Power-packed Sprint Races: The Toyota MR2 Championship
Toyota MR2 Championship
The Toyota MR2 Championship is a more powerful alternative for those interested in sprint racing. As a part of the supportive 750 Motor Club, drivers get the chance to race the different variations of the Toyota MR2 race car at some of the best circuits in the UK.
The Costs
With prices starting at just £290 for a race weekend, the Toyota MR2 Championship offers fantastic value for money. This cost includes not just the racing experience but also the camaraderie and support of a close-knit racing community that we have had the privilege of being a part of for two great years as the title sponsors of the Toyota MR2 Championship.
Build and Race: The Locost Championship
The Locost Championship
The Locost Championship is a unique racing series that allows petrolheads to build their own single-seater race car. The process of creating a racing machine and then testing its mettle at incredible circuits is an unparalleled experience.
The costs
The Locost Championship offers tremendous value for money. Prices start from just £340 per race weekend, providing an exhilarating and affordable means of competing in motorsport.
A Competitor to Watch out for: The EnduroKA Series
The EnduroKA Series
Launched in 2019 as a competitor to the hugely popular C1 Challenge, the EnduroKA series, operated by Motorsport Vision, offers a great deal of low-cost racing. Competitors drive the compact Ford Ka car in a series of races varying in length from 5 to 12 hours at circuits such as Snetterton, Brands Hatch and Silverstone.
The Costs
Teams can race in the EnduroKA series from as little as £400 per racing hour, which would be split between drivers. This offers amazing value for money, making it a popular choice among motorsport enthusiasts.
Our Final Thoughts
From the endurance-focused Citroën C1 Challenge to the build-and-race Locost Championship, there are numerous low-cost racing series that offer an affordable entry point into motorsport. These races provide a platform to compete, learn, and ultimately, have fun.
Our home team, Gala Performance Racing, boasts experienced racers who have competed in the C1 Challenge, including Mark Thompson, Andrew Scott, and Nathan Lord. We are eagerly looking forward to the 2024 season and hope to bring home some silverware.
If you're considering racing this season, you'll need pop-up race tents, garage flooring, and branded products to stand out in the paddock. Gala Performance supplies all these products, with free next working day delivery. Don't forget to download and subscribe to our amazing quarterly magazine, GPQ, now.
Remember, the thrill of motorsport is within reach, even on a budget. So, buckle up and start your engines – it's time to embrace the world of low-cost racing.
