Well the kids are asking to start racing, what are the pros and cons and what to look for in getting started

I'm told 12.90 cars(8-9 year olds) are difficult to get consistent.

We started 3 seasons ago when my son was 10 and this is our last season running the 8.90 class(10-12 year olds).





That said, buy the best used car you can afford.

Best place to get and idea what they cost as well buy is...

http://www.racingjunk.com/cate...Junior_Dragster.html

Halfscale/Randy is the originator and considered by many to be the best.

Go here to learn and ask questions...

http://www.jrdragsterplus.com/phpBB2/index.php

as well your local track.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: 1320racer,

Pros...............fantastic times spent with your kids...quality time and a VERY good learning tool for the kids. We ran from 1993-1998. Good lessons on maintenance and car care, concentration, temper etc. All kids driving our cars were in charge of keeping their car clean, neat and tidy. The kids then took turns washing the truck and trailer prior to going. Dirty cars,truck or trailer didn't go...so the kids made sure they did a good job. Any big labor, they would be present to help me which was a great learning experience for them as well. My daughter got to run the US Nats in 93.

Cons....like any sport, with parents involved...parents can ruin it for the kids....the parents end up in the competition with $$ spent, tow rigs, uniforms etc...let the kids be kids. $$ spent, have to keep it affordable to keep it fun. It does take quite a bit of time as well...but 1000% worth every bit (or it was for me)

Thanks for the info, and Ed what is it like to run your car and the jr.

A lot of work but obviously doable.

All kidding aside, I lose 5 lbs. on raceday!

Really depends on how your local track runs their program.

Atco starts their jr. program at 9:00am Saturday morning and the big cars don't start till 1:00pm.

The same at Numidia on Sundays.

What's really tough is running at ETown on Sundays where the jrs. are run on an 1/8th mile track at the same time the big cars are being run on the 1/4 mile track.

I am about to embark on the same journey, as my daughter will be 8 in November. Which means I am looking for a car in the Maryland-Virginia area.

I will agree..you and your kids will have a great time and life lasting memories if you do it and just have fun. This is our first year racing juniors and my daughter just turned 11 and is having a blast...we were going to start when she turned 8 but im glad we waited.
Both those websites listed above are great resources.
Yes...you will lose 5 lbs a night too...lol

I sounds like you are planning on running multiple Jrs. If so, having cars set up with the same tires, axles, clutch, carb, etc. is a plus.

The track we usually visit runs all classes in sequence. If all three of us make 4th round and beyond, it becomes a rush to get to the lanes on time. My son started when he was nine and is now thirteen. He tracks the weather and data, dials his car, maintains the fuel, oil and air on both his and his younger sister's car. My wife and I inspect the cars before each round and start the cars. We also get to drive the golf cart!

We(all parents)get to experience the thrill of victory and agony of defeat along side our children and watch as they exhibit good sportsmanship.