FARA Sunset 300 Returns this Weekend

 Just under a decade ago, the Formula and Automobile Racing Association (FARA) was organized in South Florida, taking to the track at Homestead-Miami Speedway in what seemed to fans as an ill-fated attempt to overtake SCCA in the racing scene.

  Now, in 2015, FARA routinely brings in the biggest racing crowds to Homestead-Miami Speedway outside of Ford Championship Weekend.

  What is their secret, and why should you care?

  Well the formula for FARA’s success is simple: make it fan friendly, family centric, and feature quality racing.

  Over the years, the series has seen itself transform from a race that featured primarily Miatas and spec-racers that barely pegged the speedometer over 100mph to a destination for race teams from around the world.

  At the same time, FARA has positioned itself to indeed overtake SCCA, PBOC, and CCS as the biggest local racing series in South Florida, all at the same race track every time.

Making It Affordable

  FARA is known for giving away its tickets for free.

  Go to their website and you can easily register to print out a free courtesy ticket in the comfort of your own home before heading to the track.

  When you arrive, fans must only pay for parking ($10 for general parking, $20 for limited infield access at this weekend’s Sunset 300).

  This formula has proven effective as each race brings in bigger and bigger crowds.

  As last year’s Miami 500, cars were backed up for miles down Palm Dr. with only an hour left in the race.

  The draw for fans is so great that what was once a race that allowed viewing from the infield only has now grown to allow seating in the speedway’s main grandstands, and those seats are also filling up quickly.

  Every inch of the infield is packed with fans enjoying the beautiful South Florida weather.

  Families pull up in their SUV’s and trucks, unpack their grills and TV sets, and cook out next to the track while drinking a cold brew and enjoying sports on TV at the same time.

Unprecedented Access

  FARA has given fans something that Grand-Am (now IMSA), NASCAR, IndyCar, or Formula D have never opened before: the grid on pit road before the race.

  For about 45 minutes before each feature endurance race, all fans are invited on to pit road at Homestead-Miami Speedway to get an up close and personal view of the variety of machines about to take to the track, as well as mingle with the drivers and teams.

  Kids seek autographs, fans pose with grid-girls, and drivers are able to thank the fans who come out to watch them race side-by-side with the best racers South Florida has to offer.

  Additionally, every ticket includes free paddock access, allowing fans the chance to see drivers and teams work on their cars much closer than other racing series.

Quality Racing

  When Germany-based Pirelli World Challenge race team Reiter Engineering needed a race to use as a pre-season shakedown session, they turned to this year’s FARA Homestead 200.

  What started as a glorified test day for the team turned into an overall victory for the Lamborghini squad, impressing all who were in attendance and setting the tone for a so-far strong showing in Pirelli World Challenge competition.

  For drivers and teams who race in Trans-Am, SCCA, NASA, PBOC, and even IMSA competitions, FARA races provide the perfect chance to perfect their setups before heading to the bigger shows.

  Breathless performance’s teenage superstar Ernie Francis, Jr. regularly dominates FARA races in his class, while Michael Camus can be seen on the podium with growing frequency draped in an American Flag.

  With numerous classes racing (separated by engine power and other factors), fans can expect the fiercest competition to heat up as the races wind down.

Why Go?

  If you are a relative newcomer to racing, FARA provides a new fan the perfect opportunity to become acclimated to the sport.

  With a wide array of sportscars to watch up close, even the most casual fan will find themselves entertained.

  This weekend’s Sunset 300 features an endurance night-race, the only one on the FARA schedule, on Saturday night, followed by a packed schedule on Sunday of sprint races.

  For fans looking to bring the whole family, it is hard to argue with the attraction that FARA.

  Indeed, you can find me at the speedway this weekend taking in every lap of the thrilling action at Homestead-Miami Speedway.