I posted this in IT.com, but since ppl are bringing up SCCA and NASA and how to start out, i think its rather relevant and helpful. I imagine it applies to NASA just as much, even if it isnt a club, more of a money grubbing, capitalistic, green eyed... just kidding!

The title might seem a bit odd, but I want to express my experience helping out this weekend flagging. Since its my first year, I decided not to enter any event at Laguna Seca for several reasons (distance, cost, no prior track experience) which is one of three tracks of the SFR. Well, since I had the weekend available, I decided to help out and take advantage of a volunteer program for credit towards a test day, even if I could only do it just for a day.
It was a great experience for me for a couple reasons. Other than the test day credit, I knew that working at a flag station would be the best way to learn that corner without actually running it. I certainly did get a big perspective of differing lines and watching the leaders. Also allowed me to spectate all the OTHER classes SCCA runs than IT. The other benefit as a driver is a better understanding of the communications between race central, emergency and each flag station and how they coordinate flags and bringing out the tow truck. Makes me feel more confident on the organization for my safety.

However, I think the most surprising and positive aspect that I got out of volunteering is experiencing the amount of effort and enthusiasm the consistent and faithful workers who make OUR (the drivers) fun possible, and have their own fun while doing so even if they are frequently short handed. It made me understand that club racing really is CLUB racing. So not only can helping out make you a better driver, it makes it more fun getting to know and appreciate the great ppl that makes the Sports Car Club of America. Im not sharing this to toot my own horn, and most likely most of you already realized all this a long time ago, but hopefully I've given a bit extra perspective to some ppl that I gained. I do agree with someones suggestion that volunteering at least for one race at any specialty should be part of the novice requirement.

 

Puting in time IS a requirement in our Conference. In order to graduate from the Novice Program, each racer needs to spend a half day each in Tech, Scoring and Timing, and Corners.

I learned alot about how much it takes to put on a race and I have a whole lot of respect for the workers out there - they truly are race fanatics and very dedicated to making the sport safe and fun.

For those who have a chance to get out there on one of the corners, I would encourage it. You get to see the behind the scenes, see the racing from up close, and get the chance to meet some great people.

Great thread Tyson

Greg



[Modified by bulldog_RS20, 11:09 PM 7/2/2002]

 

I love racing, and don't have a car yet. Working corners/start/whatever else is the best way to get involved in the sport and meet the people in it while at the same time earning credits for when I finally do get a car (I sometimes bring my girlfriend along so I get her credits too ).

I defintately like the idea of requiring all people to volunteer a few days before they can get a license, gives them a more well-rounded perspective of everything that is going on at the racetrack.

As an added bonus, you get free touring laps (yes, the tires on my accord are well melted on the edges from SP), and you get rides with instructors which is mucho funo.

Time for some steak, peace out y'all.

 

And here I just thought it was so you don't get lonely in the corner station. Man that's it I need to get a girlfriend so I can take her credits for when I finally get a car myself.

 

indeed. there are lot of volunteers that love road racing do it all for free at events like SCCA/NASA to make things happen. on every of my cool down lap my thumbs up and waves to the corner workers are sincere and from the bottom of my heart.

working a corner lets you watch fast qualifying lines as well as interesting race lines. you always learn something at the track (if you put you mind into it) even if you aren't actually driver.