“PDX” stands for “Performance Driving eXperience.” In that little three letter nutshell is crammed both what PDX is and also what you get when you participate. According to the manual (the official SCCA Time Trials Rules), PDX is the first level of SCCA-sanctioned Time Trials events. It is intended to be “non-competitive and based on the practice and instruction of performance driving and car handling.” Time Trials are a form of solo (non wheel-to-wheel) racing, where a single driver drives a timed, closed course, usually on a road racing track. Cars are classed using both SCCA club racing and solo rules. Fastest time wins. There are four levels, each requiring progressively more track-dedicated cars, including items such as roll bars and other equipment.

PDX – First Drive

The Jump From Autocross

by Chuck Edmondson

            The transition to track racing from Autocross seems like a giant leap.  Schooling, novice license, building or buying a race worthy car, a tow vehicle and trailer is a major commitment in anybody’s book.  Unmentioned is the lingering question of “Am I ready to drive at that level?”  For me, the first step towards bridging the gap from the relative safety and modest commitment of autocross to road racing was the SCCA’s Performance Driving Experience (PDX); the first level of the SCCA Time Trials program. [...]