That’s what the stopwatch is for. stopwatch Time the first lap. The first lap is usually the “Stopwatch sprint Lap” where they have few or no obstacles open and this will be the fastest lap time they have all night.
The event near Smithville, Texas, obviously was a little smaller than the event near Las Vegas, but the goal was the same. As the crew, you are there to support your racer sometimes more than one stopwatch and keep them fueled and safe. It’s up to the racer to bring their favorite fuel and clothing, but it’s you that keeps it organized and ready for them at each pit stop.
You and your racer(s) need a plan. My racer wanted a hydration drink, salt tabs and race goo for every stop. Then halfway through the night, he wanted his preferred pre-race mix. I had everything there at the lap transition area ready for him to choose what he wanted now and what he wanted to take with him out on course. (Side note: don’t let them touch anything that goes into their mouth. They have been through some nasty stuff out on course). Your racer may want to sit for a minute, change shoes, add or remove gear, or have tea and crumpets. Just make sure you have a plan and use the notepad to keep.
Now that you have your racer taken care of and they are back out on course, how do you take care of yourself? Bring something to do between pit stops. Your racer will be out there for who knows how long and you have to keep your mind occupied as you have probably been awake for much longer than normal. How do you know how long you have before they return? That’s what the is for. stopwatch Time the first lap. The first lap is usually the “Stopwatch sprint Lap” where they have few or no obstacles open and this will be the fastest lap time they have all night. Once obstacles are added to the course and fatigue sets in, the lap times may get a little longer. Use the notepad to track them.