HKS Academy

Introducing the HKS Academy

Are you an experienced Run What Ya Brunger looking for the next step? Do you fancy a go at real racing in the HKS Drag Series? If the answer is “yes” to both those questions, then read on:

What is the HKS Academy?

The HKS Academy ran for the first time at Rotorstock in August 2010, and it will run a second session at JapShow Finale on October 3rd. It is an opportunity for experienced Run What Ya Brung drivers to have a crack at real racing, with qualifying and elimination rounds. Entry is strictly limited to just 12 car.

Participants will be treated just like an extra class of the HKS Drag Series, and will get three qualifying runs, with the 8 fastest participants (low ET) going through to eliminations. The remaining 8 cars will then get to race side-by-side through three rounds of eliminations, where the first to the finish line will be declared the winner. At this stage, reaction times and race-craft will be tested to the full. The over-all winner will take home a trophy. Participants who are eliminated at any stage can join the RWYB and continue to enjoy the day.

All participants will get the chance to meet our tech crew and scrutineers, who can offer advice on what safety equipment will be needed to participate in the proper HKS Drag Series race classes.

This is your chance to find out what it takes to be a racer, and dip your toe in the water before taking the plunge. Feel the excitement of real racing and learn what it takes to be a real racer.

How much does it cost?

Here’s the great news: The HKS Academy costs no more than a day of RWYB at JapShow Finale.

For just £60 you get the following:

1. Two adult entry tickets to JapShow Finale (Full weekend) worth £40.
2. Entry into the HKS Academy with track sign-on (Sunday only), worth £20, but with more track time than standard RWYB.
3. Pit pass and pit space
4. Tech advice
5. The chance to win a trophy

What do I need to take part?

A car, a seatbelt, £60 entry fee (plus £1 booking fee), a helmet and a full driving licence. That’s it!

Most Japanese cars are suitable: RWD, 4WD or FWD. If you are running between 15 and 10 seconds, your car is perfect. The HKS Academy is not open to cars capable of running 9’s or faster – you guys should know better frankly! Run a 9 and you’re out.

All cars are run at the race director’s discretion, cars deemed to be unsafe will be removed from the competition. Although a roll-cage is strongly recommended, it is not essential.

The HKS Academy is designed to be fun and to hone race-craft. As such, having a mega-quick car is not the priority, and a mildly-tuned Civic Type R or Supra would be perfect for the job. There is an open tyre choice, but all cars must be street-derived.

How do I sign up?

PLEASE NOTE, THE HKS ACADAMEY AT JAPSHOW FINALE WILL BE PRIORITISED FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED THE HKS ACADEMY BEFORE. THEREFORE DRIVERS WHO RACED AT ROTORSTOCK WHO WANT TO HAVE ANOTHER GO WILL INSTEAD BE PUT ON A RESERVE LIST THAT WILL BECOME ACTIVE ON SEPTEMBER 20th.

Book over the phone on the usual Santa Pod number: 01234 782 828

Remember, the places are strictly limited to just 12 entries. Cost is £60 plus £1 booking fee.

Once signed up, racers will get a full briefing before the event on where to go and what to do on the day.

Current JapShow Finale Entries