Piggybacking on RF's post, look for OLD or NIR, too. I must say I think your assessment about the Zone being full of wackies is a bit overstated. Yes, there are some rather peculiar personalities out here, but there are also people who enjoy the fun and excitement derived from racing - not harrassing people in the main chat, which you may have already experienced.
You might find it difficult to locate players who'll run stock only. Nowadays track lists are the way to go. Checkout
this page for more details. Personally, I think you should log into the Zone and look up the team names you've seen listed in mine and RF's posts for starters, which will inturn connect you to more players. There are some really great people out here (mixed in with the so-called wackos lol) who could care less what your skill level is; it's all about socializing, racing and having fun. We have a myriad of skill levels on Team SLO ranging from super-duper fast to intermediates to beginners...and we ALWAYS have a great time when we get together in a room.
Before I go I might add that if you opt to give the racing lists a try, downloading them will present a challenge since you're on dial-up. If you have a d/l manager - great. If you're truly anxious and want to get started quickly, look me up and I'll arrange to have a cd sent to ya with all the goodies you'll need. I'm in the U.S., but I've sent cd's all over the world, and Ireland is certainly within my range. If you were on Mars we'd have a problem lol.
But hey guy, come on out and look us up. I think after you get to know a few ppl you'd have a great time.