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Since its debut in 2010, the popular Trackday Trophy (TDT) Series has firmly established itself as the best place for enthusiastic track day drivers and novice racing drivers to start their racing career! Designed for production and production-based Saloon, Hatchback and Sports cars, our series is all about having fun with other likeminded racers! With a 40-minute pit stop race, TDT allows two drivers to share the cost, and the fun, while racing at some of the UK’s best racing circuits!!
As the in-house track day division for MotorSport Vision, MSV Trackdays have regularly been asked "how do I get into motorsport" by our drivers. Conventionally there have been several hurdles into the sport, so at the end of the 2009 season we decided to start a series that makes it as easy as possible for new drivers to go racing – and that series is still available today and as popular as ever… Trackday Trophy.
Format
A 25-minute qualifying session is followed by a 40-minute race, delivering plenty of seat time, and maximising value for money. The straightforward power-to-weight class structure also allows a huge variety of production and production-based cars to compete together on an equal footing.
Some of the biggest benefits include:
- Multi-class racing with close competition throughout the field.
- The option to share a car with another driver.
- A single registration fee.
- A welcoming paddock that's ideal for newcomers and familiar faces alike.
- A natural progression into the competitive Trackday Championship (TDC), and Miata Trophy Championships.
Registration
Before taking to the grid, you'll need to register your team for the series and hold the appropriate Motorsport UK racing licence.
MSVT Racing registration allows access to registered driver benefits and includes MSVR membership, while race entries are submitted individually, allowing you to compete in as many or as few rounds as you choose. One MSVT Racing registration fee allows you to register the same vehicle into all other relevant MSVT Racing series / championships for no additional registration charge!
Choosing the Right Car
Choosing your first race car can feel overwhelming, but Trackday Trophy's power-to-weight regulations ensures that there is no single "correct" choice.
Unlike many other race series, eligibility isn't based on a specific make or model. Instead, cars are classified by their brake horsepower-to-weight ratio, allowing a wide variety of production-based vehicles to compete fairly.
When choosing a car, consider:
- Reliability
- Parts availability
- Aftermarket support
- Purchase price
- Ease of maintenance
|
Class |
Power-to-Weight: |
|
B |
151-175 bhp/tonne |
|
C |
126-150 bhp/tonne |
|
D |
Up to 125 bhp/tonne |
The cars below are simply popular examples rather than the only eligible options. For example, a Renault Clio can be adjusted to compete in any of the three classes. If your car is within the regulations and falls within the relevant power-to-weight limit, it's eligible to race.
Class B
- Honda Civic Type R (EP3/FN2)
Class C
- Renault Clio 197/200
Class D
- Mazda MX-5 Mk3/Mk4
Racewear
Alongside your car, you'll need Motorsport UK and FIA-approved racewear. Theres a full breakdown of requirements on our “Scrutineering Guide”.
Buying quality racewear is a worthy investment, as it can be used across multiple championships, in future race cars and even on Trackdays. Safety is paramount in motorsport, so it is worth investing in this area.
Sharing a Car
Sharing a car is a great way to reduce costs by splitting entry fees, fuel, tyres and other consumables between two drivers. With the series mandatory pit stop for all competitors, there’s no disadvantage in sharing the drive!
Testing Before Racing
If you're already a regular trackday driver, you're much closer to racing than you might think! Registered MSVT Racing drivers benefit from discounted MSV Trackdays, providing the perfect opportunity to learn circuits, test your car and build confidence before your first race weekend.
Arrive & Drive
Don't own a race car? Arrive & Drive packages provide one of the easiest ways to experience Trackday Trophy.
Several teams offer fully prepared race cars for individual rounds or an entire season, with mechanical support, driver coaching and transport all taken care of. It's a great way to experience racing before committing to buying and running your own car, while also learning from experienced teams and drivers.
Your First Race Weekend
Once you’ve registered and entered, a typical race weekend consists of:
- Signing on – online and in advance of attending the circuit (you must upload your racing licence)
- Scrutineering – the scrutineers will come and find you in the paddock. Typically, 33% of the grid will be scrutineered at any given event so you’ll be seen at on average every three events.
- Drivers' briefing – In person on the day of the race event. Your Clerk of the Course will be on hand before and after the official briefing to answer any questions.
- Qualifying – All drivers must complete a minimum of three laps in every qualifying session. You should be ready and, in the Assembly, approximately 20 minutes before the start of your session
- Race – The main event! Report to the Assembly Area approximately 20 minutes before the start of your session
The relaxed paddock atmosphere means there's always someone happy to answer questions or offer advice and help.
Looking Beyond
Many drivers begin their racing journey in Trackday Trophy before progressing into the point scoring Trackday Championship, which follows the familiar Trackday Trophy format and class structure, but with the added equaliser of a control tire.
For those looking to progress to single make motorsport, Miata Trophy also provides a natural next step with one of the most competitive single make championships in the country!
Ready to Join the Grid?
Whether you're a seasoned race driver or preparing for your first step into motorsport, Trackday Trophy offers one of the most enjoyable and accessible ways to experience the world of competitive racing.
For advice on licensing, regulations, or choosing a suitable car, contact the MSVT Racing team, who will be happy to help.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)344 225 4424