Spring is just around the corner, and for parts of the country, it feels like it’s already here! I’ve been fortunate to coach at a variety of tracks over the past several weeks, getting clients prepared for the upcoming racing season. This week is no different: I’m heading down to sunny and (very) warm Sebring, Florida, for the start of the International GT season.
Whether it’s been a long or a short winter for you, here are some things to think about before you hit the track this season!
Prep Your Car
When it comes to your car, it’s important to make sure all the safety tech inspection items are still compliant. You should be doing things like making sure your seat and seat belts aren’t out of date and checking that your fire system is charged and still compliant. Depending on the complexity of your track car or race car, you’ll also want to make sure your fuel system components are ready to go. Race fuel can be really hard on them, so if the car has been sitting for a long time during the off-season, a careful check is a must.
You should have a plan for tires, too. Are you going to start on a new set when the car first rolls on track, or are you going to start out on your most recent set from last season? If it’s the latter, the tires should still look good, and you should closely inspect their wear level and suitability.
I sometimes don’t mind rolling out for a shakedown on a used set of tires. In case there are any issues, you aren’t potentially ruining a brand-new set. It also leaves something to look forward to later in the day: once you’ve shaken off the cobwebs, you can put on a fresh set of tires!
Prep Yourself
Whichever track you’re heading to for the first event of the year, reviewing video from last year is a great way to get your mind in the rhythm of driving that track again. Also, if you have track notes you’ve compiled, you should read through them after watching the video, then watch the video a second time to really drive home those finer points.
If you don’t have experience at the track you’re heading to, YouTube can be your best friend in looking for in-car video that other drivers have posted from the track.
All this information gives you a greater ability to start visualizing a lap. You can close your eyes and mentally drive the lap, which will help with bringing your brain up to speed before you ever get to the track!
Finally, you need to make sure all your driver gear is ready for the new season. Ensure your helmet and gear are not out of date. This is also a great time to find any last-minute deals for new equipment if you’ve worn holes in your gloves or shoes. And if you’re looking for new safety gear, it’s sometimes helpful to be able to actually try things on. You might find that certain suppliers will be supporting events trackside, which gives you the chance to try things on before you buy them. I know several tracks have their own stores, too, and there are many other gear companies that have a full schedule of events they attend.
I hope these tips help you arrive at the track ready for a new season. And if you have any questions, email me and ask!