A comprehensive Python wrapper for the Ergast API. Built for easy use and functionality, Ergast-py aims to bring the Ergast API into the Python network as seemlessly as possible.
## What is Ergast?
[Ergast](http://ergast.com/mrd/) is a free, experimental API for accessing motor-racing data, dating back to the beginning of World Championships in 1950. The website provides plenty of detail into how effective the API can be, and the many options that are available for data gathering using it.
## Why should I use Ergast-Py?
Ergast-Py provides a clean, Python orientated wrapper for this API. It has been designed to remove the heavy lifting of handling the API formatting behind the scenes, allowing developers to easily access the data that is relevant to them. All the data is conformed into clean class code, allowing for users to keep a Python-centric mindset whilst developing.
Once ergast-py is installed on your system you can then begin using the library in querying the ergast API. To begin, initialise an instance of the ``Ergast()`` class.
Queries can then be built up with function calls in a sequential manner. Once you've built up a query, finally define what data you wish to get using a ``get_xyz()`` function.
Ergast-py has many models which allow the user to more effectively use and manipulate the data available to them through Ergast. All models of data are available through ``.models.xyz``.
| AverageSpeed | The average speed achieved during a fastest lap |
| Circuit | Details about a Formula One circuit |
| ConstructorStanding | A single constructor's representation in the standings |
| Constructor | A Formula One constructor |
| DriverStanding | A single driver's representation in the standings |
| Driver | A Formula One driver |
| FastestLap | A fastest lap achieved by a driver |
| Lap | Details about a drivers lap |
| Location | The position of a circuit |
| PitStop | Details about a driver's pit stop |
| Race | Full representation of a Formula One race |
| Result | Details about a driver's result |
| Season | Details about a Formula One season |
| StandingsList | A list of standings; constructors or drivers |
| Status | Details about the final status of a driver in a race |
| Timing | Details about the timings of a driver during a lap |
</details>
## Query building
There are 3 types of query available in the ``Ergast()`` class. <b>FILTER</b> functions build up the query, by filtering down the data that you will receive. <b>PAGING</b> functions control the flow of data if there is excessive amounts, limiting it to not overflow the API. <b>RETURN</b> functions detail what type of data you're expecting back from the query.
The order of the builder functions is inconsequential, however the final function called should be a <i>return</i> function.
```
Ergast().{paging/filter}.{return}
```
More detail on the available functions within the ``Ergast()`` class is available below.
This library would not be possible without the freely available [Ergast](http://ergast.com/mrd/) API. For full information about the API and it's responsible use, please refer to their website.