The San Diego Chapter of the BMW Car Club of America runs autocross events at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheater parking lot in Chula Vista — a large paved lot that gives course designers plenty of room to work with. The format is a departure from the traditional SCCA work/run structure: SD BMW CCA provides its own corner workers, so drivers register for one or more hourly sessions and drive without work assignments. It’s a detail that lowers the barrier considerably for first-timers.

Cars are classed by model, year, and modifications rather than the SCCA’s more granular solo classing system, which keeps things accessible without sacrificing competition. You don’t need to drive a BMW to participate — non-BMW entries run in their own class and are welcome at every event. Instructors are on hand throughout the day and ride-alongs are encouraged — a useful option if you want to see the course from the passenger seat before your first run. BMW CCA membership is required to participate, though joining is open to any car enthusiast regardless of what they drive.

BMW CCA chapters have been running autocross programs for decades, and the format tends to attract a mix of daily drivers and dedicated track cars. The events run rain or shine. Helmets are required; loaners available for $10. Lunch is available for purchase on site. Register at sdbmwcca.com.