RUN AN TITLE AUTOTEST TITLE
Budget and numbers
The event budget will include permit fees, venue fees, trophy costs and any other specially purchased equipment. Events are usually staffed by volunteers, but their expenses must be covered. The sum of the costs determines the minimum viable number of entries, while the maximum is usually 15 to 40, depending on the available space and the number you are comfortable managing. The event budget can then be used to set the entry fee.
Once you have confirmed the event is viable, you will require an Organising Permit for each of the disciplines you have chosen to run. To attract newcomers, you could consider running it as a Taster Day, noting that in your permit application. This should be done no less than four weeks before a Clubman event, with the event also listed as on Motorsport UK’ s Fixture list and you can create an online entry form using Google Forms or one of the event timing apps.
Autotests have a huge potential competitor pool because they only require an everyday road car and a free Motorsport UK RS Clubman licence to participate. The licence can even be applied for on the day of the event if necessary. To achieve the widest reach, publicise it on your club calendar, post on social media and connect with local online and print media to run free promotional articles. The Club Toolkit offers advice on different tools and strategies to use.
Timeline planning
Creating an event timeline is a crucial part of the planning process. Consider the event in reverse chronological order to identify critical deadlines. Motorsport UK has developed a Timeline Checklist to help with this, which can be obtained from the Club Toolkit under Sporting > Disciplines > Autotests.
Design the course carefully
Try to gauge the likely level of competitors – expert or novice – and seek advice from an experienced autotester to plan the route or routes. Each test should offer an interesting challenge but not be too complicated. Prior to finalising, carry out an on-the-ground check to ensure there are no bumps or obstacles on the course, there are sufficient safe areas for participants and officials, plus there is enough space for cars to get around. If there are multiple test courses, ensure there are safe routes between them and to the paddock.
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Dom Gibbons
Passenger rides on autoSOLOs can help convert new club members to motorsport
Produced with assistance from Motorsport UK Competitions Manager, Simon Fowler
Revolution- November 2025
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JEP