Like all of us, you were probably attracted to autocross for the thrill of driving your car at the limit, the challenge of competition, and the opportunity to hone your driving skills. Somewhere along the way after coming to several events, you probably got "hooked" and became one of the "regulars". The combination of precision car control, low cost of entry, and intense competition is an addicting one.

While you may have initially come to autocross primarily for the thrill and indulgences to your ego, along the way you may have also been surprised that you have become to feel such a strong sense of camaraderie, connection, and even family with your competitors. The more people you met, the more you realized how similar your interests were, and how willing they were to help you. Now the hook is firmly set, you're regularly coming to most of the events, and you're part of the extended racing family.

The next step is a step up; to step up and take on the extra responsibilities of a specialty position, to fill a special need, or to chair an autocross event. Volunteers that are committed to excellence and service to the members of the club are the "life-blood" of the club. Without volunteers that care so much about making our events great, this club could not continue to exist.

While the great competition can often serve your ego, great volunteers should be focused on serving the members, not in controlling something. Volunteering becomes more rewarding when you go in with the intention and commitment to help and serve others. It's an opportunity for you to help your friends, help bring new members into the grassroots motorsports family, and you might even grow a bit in the process.

It won't always be an easy job, and you won't always get the recognition you deserve, but there will be those moments when you realize you became part of something bigger than you and helped it grow, and those are the moments that make it worthwhile.

Sincerely,

Patrick Montelo
2007 Solo Chairman, Chicago Region SCCA

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