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Surplus of Marshals for 750MC Events.....
Now I have your attention with the amazing headline,
I can tell you that the concept of having too many
marshals is about as feasible as having a Hot Hatch
season without single red flag! But we can hope,
and maybe we can get you to help get near to the
first dream.
The RAC marshals grading scheme has been operating
in a low key way for a few years now, but it will
soon become mandatory to be registered and, although
we will always be able to use casual helpers, there
is no doubt that some people will give up marshalling
as a result of the extra bureaucracy. I know we
can never get to the manning levels obtained for
Touring Cars or other big meetings, and the clubs
like the BRSCC and BARC are always able to get
more bodies because they have significant numbers
of events at each circuit to get a regular core
of supporters. With one or two meetings a year
at each circuit, we have to try to borrow from
these other clubs to supplement our core of dedicated
marshals who travel significant distances to support
the club. But it is still not enough so we need
your help.
The RAC have opened the door to assist us, by
allowing a signature to be given by the Clerk of
the Course to drivers who do a days marshalling
so let's start with the drivers. If your car's
out of action, or your formula/group is not included
at a meeting, why not volunteer for marshalling?
You can see first hand what the problems are on
the bank, make some suggestions to the guys about
how drivers can be supported better, and make friends
with the people that you may have to stand next
to, the next time you spin or break down. All this
and a signature too!
And what about your friends? I know that when
they find out that you race, they are impressed
and you invite them to come and watch you some
time. Wouldn't it be an extra inducement if you
said "I might be able to get you in to marshal"?
Well, its worth a try.
On-line
marshalling application
Click Here
What about those of you who already marshal? Why
not try and encourage some friends to come and
try? The 750MC is a good place to start marshalling,
as it's not quite so formal regarding rules and
dress, and the racing is better than you will get
anywhere else. I've lost count of the number of
times last year that a marshal from another club
who has just completed his first 750 meeting has
come up to me to say that we run the slickest day
and the fullest grids that they have seen for some
time.Finally I will appeal for support from those
who have never come to a race meeting. Try it once
and see if you like it. I did.
In 1971 I went to my first meeting at Snetterton
for 750MC having never been to a race circuit in
my life and it has turned into my biggest hobby.
It may not work for you but give it one try.
So, if you take up my challenge,
what will be expected of you? Well, as a "novice" you
will normally go to a post and be put in the care
of some experienced marshals. They will show you
the ropes during the day, and duties will include
pushing cars, sweeping, and getting instruction
about what to look for. You may also learn some
new words from the friendly drivers who stop to
talk to you after mechanical failure! If working
out on the circuit doesn't appeal, there are other
jobs including assembly, pit, telephone, start
line, and I also believe that in some areas we
would like some scrutineers. If you would like
to volunteer for marshalling, the first thing to
do is to call Peter Harding, the 750MC marshals
co-ordinator. He will send you an availability
form and then put you in touch with the club's
chief marshal.
From an article by Pete Harding first published
in the Bulletin - April 1998
The 750 Motor Club Marshals Co-ordinator is:
Peter Harding
57 Winstree Road
Stanway
Colchester
Essex
CO3 0QF
Tel: 01206 502064
Mobile 07802 505588
Fax: 01206 330493
E-mail: peter.john.harding@ntlworld.com
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