Hillclimbs

Hillclimbing is a form of racing that is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. This sport involves racing various kinds of vehicles - from standard motorcycles and cars through to specially built vehicles - up hilly roads. There are three main types of race here:

1. Production Vehicles - there are various types of class in this area for standard cars, kit cars and replicas and for modified vehicles.

2. Sports vehicles - this area is concerned with specially built hillclimbing cars.

3. Single seater vehicles - this area involves all kinds of vehicles from former racing cars through to vintage machines.

In most cases drivers will go round courses on their own in a timed sprint rather than competing head to head in a multi-driver race. If you are thinking of taking up hillclimbing then most experts will recommend that you go to a few races to see what is involved and, if you are still interested, that you consider going on a hillclimbing course. These usually only last a day or so. You will also need a full set of relevant safety gear.

You will need a license to compete in hillclimbing events which involves joining a Motor Sports Association (MSA). The first license you will get is a National B license which will allow you to compete in many races but which will have restrictions on the grade of race you can join and the vehicle you can drive. Once you've got some experience you can upgrade to a National A license which gives you more flexibility.