They set up a track outside of the oval raceway in the back. It's where the parking lot used to be, and then they paved it and made it into a track with barriers and small stands. And no, you don't need a helmet or anything extra unless you run faster than 14.00. Since you're auto, I'm not sure if you're planning to run faster than 14's with the HRC kit? I can't wait to see your car run. BTW, tech is very lenient there. They didn't even look under the hoods of some of the cars...