Race Day Advice

[SouthJersey-FE]

Since this will be my first racing season I have a few race day questions. Pitting. Exactly what are the responsibilities of your pit guy? Also what are some important things you need? Outside of chargers, power supplies tools and of course the boats? How early do you guys show up before the event? Are practice sessions? Any other advice is greatly appreciated.

[Rex R]

haven't seen anything specific in writing... I have come up with some of the responcibilities of the 'crew'; launch & recover boats, act as a 'spotter' for the driver(which includes lap counting, letting their driver know of hazards(dead boats & other stuff on the course), timing). think that covers much of it(not sure, yet).
you'll want to bring; spare parts(props mainly), epoxy, super glue, shaft lube, sunglasses, a hat(possibly sunblock), towel(s), paper towels, clear nail polish(water proofing), corrosion x(water displacer).
when to show up;
think most 'events' have a schedule that includes a 1st day drivers meeting, registration etc., and will have a time requested following days(if more than one) they may request that you be there(not mandatory(note I'm not at all sure bout events) in any case you'll want to get set up at least a half hour before your 1st heat(earlier is better, you'll want to grab a good spot :)). it generally takes me about 15 minutes(minimum) to load/unload the car. oh right, almost forgot, bring food & drink, and band-aids. regardless of how much you bring... you'll undoubtedly find out that ya shoulda brought (ensert item name here) after you get to the 'pond' :) hth
rex

[SouthJersey-FE]

Thanks Rex,
The laundry list seems to be about the same a long day out @ the lake. Thanks again for the tips :D
Tom

[BoatDoc]

at the races i've been too (only a few so far) we like to show up and get set up as early as possible. at the Sardine Classic in WI, we had an 8:30 start time and i was at the pond by 7:15, peaking cells, and getting in a few minutes of open water. rex's laundry list is a pretty good start (he usually helps me out in the paper towel dept. because i like to forget them). a soldering iron is also a good tool to have at the lake, we've been known to build packs in the pits, repair ESC's, and fix numerous wires. scissors, pliers, and lots of renfrew hockey tape as well!!

the pit man...rex is right on again. being a good pit guy means watching out in front of your driver's boat, and keeping track of his laps and time. if you're at a race, and you don't know anyone, just ask around. someone will always be willing to pit, and help out.

[SouthJersey-FE]

I see my uniden 12 mile radius frs radios will be a help since I need a spotter. I will have to pick up a couple head sets. I have a handle on the tools. I would imagine some sort of table for a work station? I take it 99% of the locations have electric. Extention cords are a must. lol i need to get this all printed out. Thanks

[Rex R]

not sure bout the clubs in your area... but here in Wisconsin the pit crew is usually up on the drivers stand(behind the drivers) :). work stations: I gather they vary by location we've got picnic tables, some folks do bring their own tables(don't forget chairs) spect a card table would do. power strips are nice. note pads and something to write with(to jot down needed things perhaps? :), lap times etc.). if it seems like a lot, it is. mine is sort of an evolving list. after a bit you kinda get a handle on what to bring(btw Boat Doc I've found a local source of the 'good' ppr towels and have laid in a supply :)). SISSORS, you'll need sissors, don't leave home w/o them. one other item not strictly boat/racing related(more a comfort thing), I suggest packing a roll of toilet paper in the car... the usual stuff at public facilities shall we say leaves a bit to be desired.