FMX,

One good way to learn is offer to help someone. Go to the track on Grudge night, test & tune or times when it is not a big meet. Look for the guys that are there working and running their car by themselves, or maybe with just their wife or kid. Go and watch them for a while and ask some questions about thier car to strike up a conversation. If it looks like a friendly situation ask if you can help. And then don't be disappointed if he only asks you to help with simple tasks. He will probably be watching to see how you do things. No matter what the task, do it with enthusiasm. If you get a chance to hang around while he and other racers are talking, listen a lot and talk very little. Hopefully he might introduce you to others. If you have the opportunity, offer to come by his place and help during the week. Make sure your parents know about this and hopefully will come and meet whoever you hang out with. And don't be discouraged if you meet with some rejection, just keep trying.

It may take a season of hanging around the pits to develop that kind of friendship, but it will be the best way to learn and get involved. Many racers got started when someone took them under their wing.

Good luck

Pat