A sprint newbie tips overflow thread

[Paul Ranson]

There are a lot of 'tips' going in the Technical Forum (ex) thread. It seems to me a subject for another thread. So here goes.

 

Before the start.

 

Read the event regulations, they may describe what is permissible in the start area. Usually you will be allowed to spin your wheels between clearly marked lines. Unless you're the first to go you can watch others... Anyway the start line marshals have seen it all before so they won't be intimidated, but don't run them over. Coast up to the line, try and stop with your timing strut in the area of the line. Take your foot off the brake. This is very important. The marshals can then precisely align the car with the start line. After the light goes green drive off smartly. Remember to put your visor down before starting.

 

At Curborough you will know when the light will go green because it will be after the previous competitor has almost cleared the course. At a two lapper each run will be taking 70-90 seconds beginning to end, including the return from the finish to the start area. Bear this in mind when deciding when to approach the line. It's a bit silly to do smoky burn outs and get all wound up, and then sit at idle for a minute before starting your run.

 

Again at Curborough you get sent down to the start in batches, and then are expected to do your run and return to the paddock following the traffic lights. It's quite OK to park up out of the way and hang about for a bit. Similarly if you want to take a helper down to the start that's fine, but they won't be allowed to catch a lift hanging onto the rollbar. It's not that far to walk...

 

In the racing car we usually take the car out of gear coasting up to the start and only put it back into first when the light goes green. This is to reduce the stress on the crank thrust washers. In a Caterham you can probably leave it in gear with the clutch down. But it may be worth thinking through. Try and develop a routine, spin wheels, neutral, stop on start line, all feet off pedals, green light, check belts, visor down, select first, vroom vroom go etc.

 

Paul