Roadmap: how to get into Circuit Racing in NSW

At RaceAway Track Time, the number one question we get asked is "How do I start racing?"

If you’ve ever dreamed about lining up on a starting grid and chasing that chequered flag, you’re not alone. Motorsport can seem overwhelming at first — but with the right team behind you, it’s far more accessible than you might think.

Whether you’re a total beginner or track day hero, here’s our proven formula for getting into motorsport.

Step 1: Get Comfortable on Track

The very first step is simple: get yourself on a racetrack.

You don't need a fancy race car. You can start with your road car at one of our Track Days at Pheasant Wood Circuit. These days are designed to help you get familiar with driving at speed, safely, in a supportive environment.

There’s a reason we love training at Pheasant Wood Circuit. This tight, technical circuit constantly challenges you to think ahead and link your corners together — a crucial skill for any future racer. The track layout is ideal for developing precision and consistency, and its excellent viewing points & open pit lane make coaching even more effective.

Every event includes:

Morning Track Walk - led by experienced coaches
Open pit lane format – drive as much as you like
Group workshop
Live Natsoft timing - track your lap times

Don’t own a racecar? We highly recommend checking out our Arrive ‘n’ Drive packages available at Pheasant Wood Circuit or One Raceway. These packages give you a day on track in your chosen vehicle (Subaru BRZ, Toyota ‘86, Mazda MX5) with one-on-one coaching and track day entry included. Even better - there are plenty of opportunities for Arrive ‘n’ Drive with midweek and weekend dates available.

Arrive ‘n’ Drive racecar hire at Pheasant Wood Circuit or One Raceway. Raceaway Track Time BRZ racecar hire.

Step 2: DRIVER Coaching to Fast-Track Your Progress

Speed isn't just about mashing the throttle — it’s about race craft.

That's where coaching makes all the difference.
Our professional driver coaches teach you everything you need to know to drive smarter, not harder:

Race lines and braking techniques
Overtaking and defending positions
Traffic management
Wet weather skills
Mindset and consistency under pressure

Whether it’s your first time on track or you're aiming to be race-ready, our coaching helps you skip the trial-and-error phase and get faster, safer, and more confident — quicker.

Step 3: Get a Taste for Racing – The Deputy 4 Hour

Once you’re comfortable at speed and have a handle on your car control, it’s time to get a real taste of racing.

Enter the Pheasant Wood Circuit - Deputy 4 Hour Enduro.

This is grassroots endurance racing at its absolute best — affordable, friendly, and adrenaline-fuelled. It’s a 4-hour race held at Pheasant Wood Circuit, designed for beginner and budget-conscious racers. Race the RaceAway Mazda MX5 Racecar with everything included. Your own pro driver coach, professional pit crew, strategy manager & a practice day all included. READ MORE about Deputy 4 Hour.

It’s the perfect way to:

Experience race starts, pit stops, and strategy
Practice racing under pressure
Work as part of a team
experience the mental & physical endurance needed for motorsport

Many of our drivers use the Deputy 4 Hour as their first step into proper competition — and they keep coming back for more!

RaceAway Mazda MX5 at R2 of the Deputy 4 Hour endurance race, Pheasant Wood Circuit.

Step 4: Join the Big Dogs – Get Your Motorsport Australia License

If you’re serious about racing, you’ll need to hold a Motorsport Australia Circuit License.
Here’s how you get it:

1. Apply for a Motorsport Australia License

Head to the Motorsport Australia website and apply for a Circuit License.
You'll also need a Motorsport Australia Medical Examination Form completed by a doctor.

2. Complete an Online Theory Module

Motorsport Australia requires you to complete an online theory component covering race regulations, safety protocols, flags, and driver responsibilities.

3. Book and Complete an Observed Licence Test (OLT)

Your final step is the Observed Licence Test (OLT) — and this is a genuine test you must be adequately prepared to pass. You can complete your OLT with us at any upcoming track day & certain events.

During the OLT, Motorsport Australia officials assess your:
- Car control at speed
- Track awareness and positioning
- Correct use of flag signals
- Pit entry and exit procedures
- Overall attitude to safety

Important:
If you are not adequately prepared, you can fail your OLT. That’s why we strongly recommend gaining track day experience and professional coaching beforehand to boost your chances of success.

Step 5: Step into Club, State, or National Level Racing

Once you've got your Motorsport Australia License and tasted competition, the next step is planning a racing calendar that suits your goals, experience, and budget.

At RaceAway Track Time, we work closely with drivers to tailor a path forward.

Here’s how it usually looks:

Club and State Level Racing

If you're looking to build experience without massive travel or costs, we'll often recommend starting with a familiar track like Sydney Motorsport Park or One Raceway.

You might race in:

NSW Production Touring Car Championship — in one of our proven Mazda SP25s
MX5 Cup Series — using the same MX5 racecar you would have driven in the Deputy 4 Hour
APRA (Australian Pulsar Racing Association) Series - Highly competitive one make series

These are an excellent starting point, growing your skills in highly competitive yet welcoming environments.

National Level Racing

Got your sights set on Bathurst or Phillip Island?
Then you’ll need a National Motorsport Australia License — which requires completing three National-level Motorsport Australia race meetings.

In this case, we may recommend entering:

Australian Production Cars Championship — in the Mazda SP25
RX8 Cup Series — a highly popular and cost-effective national series
NSW Production Touring — where certain rounds are eligible as National events

Completing these will qualify you to compete in iconic races like the Bathurst 6 Hour or Challenge Bathurst, where we also offer full Arrive 'n' Drive packages.

Ready to Get Started?

At RaceAway Track Time, we make starting your racing journey simple.
We’ve built a clear path for anyone who’s passionate about motorsport — from your very first track day to racing at major endurance events like the Bathurst 6 Hour.

👉 View our upcoming events here
👉 Explore race car hire options here

Still got questions?
We love helping new racers find their way to the grid.

📞 0472 535 354
📩 info@raceawaytracktime.com.au