by zmatson » Mon Apr 15, 2013 9:27 am
2HorsePower wrote:Michael, if you need a Novice Chief I am happy to volunteer again. I think it really helps make new folks feel more welcome and more apt to come back when we do more to reach out to them at their first couple events.
Laura,
I think this is a good idea, and I would be happy to help you. Working the grid a couple times last year, I felt like there was a need/potential to really improve communication with new/novice drivers.
Last year was my first year, and at the drivers' meeting, they said to grab someone at the trailer if it was your first event. Bucky rode along with me, and if he hadn't kept his cool on my first run, with car issues getting to the line, I probably would have left and never returned. I think most of the new drivers don't ask for help, and that sometimes leads to unnecessary stress/fiascos. However, when offered help/a rider, most people seem relieved to have the opportunity.
The novice walkthroughs are very helpful (but we need a hand-held speaker for the leader so everyone can hear). If we can identify the first-timers, and make sure they are comfortable with all the logistics (pairing them up with someone to ride along if possible), I think that makes for a less stressful, more enjoyable first time out.
Anyway, I don't have any line advice, and very little driving advice, but I can certainly help identify and talk to new people, and help explain the logistics of the event (and help find riders, which can be its own can of worms).
[quote="2HorsePower"]Michael, if you need a Novice Chief I am happy to volunteer again. I think it really helps make new folks feel more welcome and more apt to come back when we do more to reach out to them at their first couple events.[/quote]
Laura,
I think this is a good idea, and I would be happy to help you. Working the grid a couple times last year, I felt like there was a need/potential to really improve communication with new/novice drivers.
Last year was my first year, and at the drivers' meeting, they said to grab someone at the trailer if it was your first event. Bucky rode along with me, and if he hadn't kept his cool on my first run, with car issues getting to the line, I probably would have left and never returned. I think most of the new drivers don't ask for help, and that sometimes leads to unnecessary stress/fiascos. However, when offered help/a rider, most people seem relieved to have the opportunity.
The novice walkthroughs are very helpful (but we need a hand-held speaker for the leader so everyone can hear). If we can identify the first-timers, and make sure they are comfortable with all the logistics (pairing them up with someone to ride along if possible), I think that makes for a less stressful, more enjoyable first time out.
Anyway, I don't have any line advice, and very little driving advice, but I can certainly help identify and talk to new people, and help explain the logistics of the event (and help find riders, which can be its own can of worms).
