CCR A-X improvements?

[grok]

prancingdawg said:

WHAT IS A GROK, ANYWAY?

Not a scifi reader eh?

The slang word grok was coined by Robert A. Heinlein in the science fiction novel "Stranger in a Strange Land", where it is a Martian word meaning literally "to drink" and metaphorically "to be one with". It was adopted into the vocabulary of 1960's youth and hackish jargon, whence it has become a part of net culture.

dictionary.reference.com/wordoftheday/archive/1999/07/15.html

[prancingdawg]

well, now I know. Thanks. Wanna grok?

[volksman]

My 2 Cents, after this, my third event.

It went very smooth with the gridding, thanks to the PA. and the workers (Shane among others) Great buy on that one.

T-shirts with "event staff" on the back was a great idea and cheap. About $15-18 a shirt. red is a nice color for those. Make sure people understand they have to turn them in after the event! ( tshirtdomain.com)

Some signage like "participants only" "every person on the property must sign a waiver" and similar signs can be had cheap as well on that corregated plastic on the little metal legs to stomp in the ground. A few good ones is better than many rotten ones. Think hard.

A few trash barrels placed here and there would be alright too. Makes us look better to the owners and makes clean up slightly easier. I saw loads of trash around (most from spectators, visitors, of course)

I only saw two brooms, so here is my offer: I have a little ;)more money than time (despite my car, it's true!) So I'll buy a few street brooms and bring them to the next event, and a couple of trash barrels as well.(decent ones with hinge lids) I offer this because I can't get there early enough to help in the morning as all the events tend to be two hour drives for me, so it's my way of voulteering for what I can't do otherwise.

Greg

[volksman]

hey 971nt3 something something
If the car in question was the 75 Blue diesel MB240, I'm sorry. It has no reverse and My daughter came around between my truck and another car to see the book bag and other items, so I slid them to the side nice and easy like. Not rough and tossed, but like they were mine. She was just so close to the other car I thought they might get upset. She's new to the whole parking thing.

[damnyankee]

A few words from another noobie.....
1. Communication is very important. I did not know that single cars went on one side and doubles on the other. And, I was never told to move to the other side.
2. Parking - I was in the first group, when I returned to where I had prepped my car, my spot was taken. In spite of the fact, that all of my trunk stuff was there at the back of the space. I reloaded my car, and moved it a few rows behind the grid, as to not be in the way.
3. Spectators - Every body loves recognition. Currently, unless you sign a waiver, there is no where the "general public" can assemble. Maybe the creation of a "Viewing area"? Then everyone can direct people to that area. Also, spectators don't make the 9:30 cut off. In our area, a lot of people attend church on Sunday mornings, and then wander in to watch the action after lunch. No one to get them to sign the waiver.
4. Grid/starting cars - I worked the grid and start area both Saturday and Sunday. What I found out was that not everybody paid attention to the people that were designated to do this job. Many times, a car would simply pull in to line with out being given the go ahead for staging. This created some confusion in keeping the line moving.
5. Novice information - It was GREAT having the school on Saturday. It was a fantastic learning experience for me. Although it was crowded, it seemed like everyone got a lot of attention. Perhaps a small session on protocol in needed (i.e. - park here, line up here, watch this guy, etc).
6. Trophies - nothing is more discouraging, than to see your name with a big letter T next to it, only to find out, that there is no T! I understand that some one forgot the extra trophies on Sunday, however, in the trophy presentation, not all of the trophy winners were announced, and recognized. Also, if it is known (I'm not sure that it was) if there aren't any T's, maybe a side conversation should have been held. This would avoid someone waiting for an additional 2 hours, and not being recognized.

[SVT Driver]

Some day I should join the forums. I had a great time on Sunday. Off-course on the 1st run due to not having time to walk the course. I went by the start time on the registration site being 11:00 with drivers meeting at 10:30. On the positive side, one of the instructors from Saturday came over and asked "You dnf'ed, do you know where you were off course?" Things like that overcame my thoughts about the start time. My only complaint....Posting times. You never know where you stand in your class, how far back from the leader you are or how far ahead of the person behind you in time. Of course knowing that, can get you into trouble driving over your head trying to make-up that time. All in all I had a great time and scheduling conflicts will cause me to miss the next 2 events, back to back on Mother's Day weekend??

[damnyankee]

My Mom said I could go......my wife said MAYBE!!!

[lagunamiata]

Grid - With as many cars as we had in each group, a specific side for 2 driver cars didn't really work. We usually only have a few and save the end spaces for those. I know Mike and I were a pain, we just park along the roadway... its because he can't back up the Miata!! Some of those cars that were just pulling into line were 2 driver cars.

Parking - A lot of the issues with parking go back to spectator control. The same thing happened to me at the Feb event. I came back after my runs to find a girl in a red Civic in my spot. Never mind the chair, bag, cooler, tarp, etc. No, just park there... - sarcasm off -

Glad you were there, glad you had fun and glad you learned something!

[damnyankee]

Not really a problem with you specifically. At least we knew about you up there. Others just seemed to go whenever they wanted.

Again, these were just some of the things, I think, I think.

[971nt3gr4]

um no it wasnt that car. it was a camry. but it was ok i just moved my car down one spot and picked up my stuff. i was mad for a little bit but i got over it.

if we had a spectator's parking lot then we would not have to worry about being too crowded or people stealing our spots.

[lagunamiata]

971nt3gr4 said:

if we had a spectator's parking lot then we would not have to worry about being too crowded or people stealing our spots.

I think the problem with that (at least at Knights) is getting access to another lot. We don't want people parking in the area behind grid because they'll be walking through grid... People like to paddock in the lot we normally use because its flatter (better for changing tires).

Maybe the folks that work out the event sites can figure out a way to get spectator parking...

[truk41]

Here is my input...
As far as waivers go, one worker at each lots entrance(2), during their respective work group, anyways, did we really need five people at each corner station. Then it would make sure everyone signs it, and might control public onlookers a little. Also, trying to think about it now,I dont remember 100% but I think the Grid lot might be a little bit bigger, maybe switch the use of the two lots, that would allow for more parking, public and participants. I also ran into a problem of having to move my truck and trailer in order to load up. No offense if any of you did it, but parking 5 feet off the back of a trailer isnt too smart or kind.
I am sure if money becomes an issue for signage or an easel,etc. put a donation jar at the registration table. I am sure the autox'ers that are always there would pitch in. As far as car classification goes, just keep an eye in your class or classes you are familiar with.
PA system was great.
About the trophies, happened to me last year, last event. It happens, people make errors, too bad, In my eyes it isnt as special as bragging rights.

Great event I thought, 4 runs with 180+ cars, I admit I had my doubts, but then again I was in the first group so I knew I wouldnt need my headlights.

[tedebayer]

prancingdawg said:

well, now I know. Thanks. Wanna grok?

No you perv! ;D

Looky guys... this is all great input. Great ideas. Everyone agrees. So...how come things will be just like they were 2-3 months from now? Everyone has ideas how everyone else can do better. Instead of throwing out ideas for "someone" to do, take ownership yourself and go do it. If it's a little radical, ask for permission from directors. If it's not feasible, they'll tell you. "No...John, you can't paint the cones yellow because they will match your tailfeathers."

Steve's doing his part and lots of others are too...but the KEY is there are more parts that need filling. Brainstorming ideas is fun and creative and gives all a thrill as "conceptually build a utopia" in our minds of how it could be. It would be better for one person to take responsibility and do one thing better ....than to have a large pile of wonderful ideas that we all look at and grin.

CCR is a great club and you are blessed with some great drivers and wonderful members. Thanks for the leadership and the desire to continually improve.
You guys rock....

[jbyrd]

truk41 said:

Here is my input...
As far as waivers go, one worker at each lots entrance.

Open only one entrance, and you need only one worker.

[jbyrd]

971nt3gr4 said:

i was mad for a little bit but i got over it.

Good job! Way to get over it.

if we had a spectator's parking lot then we would not have to worry about being too crowded or people stealing our spots.

There really isn't much more space for parking spectator cars.

[jbyrd]

volksman said:

Some signage like "participants only" "every person on the property must sign a waiver" and similar signs can be had cheap as well on that corregated plastic on the little metal legs to stomp in the ground. A few good ones is better than many rotten ones. Think hard.

Again. If we block off all the entrances with cones and put a waiver table at one open the entrance. Problems solved.

No signs needed.

Info sheets passed out to those who enter and sign the waiver at the same time they enter. Otherwise they don't enter.

Works at every event in SCR.

A few trash barrels placed here and there would be alright too. Makes us look better to the owners and makes clean up slightly easier. I saw loads of trash around (most from spectators, visitors, of course)

I only saw two brooms, so here is my offer: I have a little ;)more money than time (despite my car, it's true!) So I'll buy a few street brooms and bring them to the next event, and a couple of trash barrels as well.(decent ones with hinge lids) I offer this because I can't get there early enough to help in the morning as all the events tend to be two hour drives for me, so it's my way of voulteering for what I can't do otherwise.

Greg

You get an "exalt" for that one.

[C4Shane]

"As far as waivers go, one worker at each lots entrance(2), during their respective work group, anyways, did we really need five people at each corner station. Then it would make sure everyone signs it, and might control public onlookers a little."

Good idea, and we will work on it. Just a quick point is that this was by far the largest turnout, as was the number of folks working each session. As it was, we were able to fill a few positions that we often cannot do when we have a lack of workers. Also, we had a lot of novices at this event - so it is good for them to get some cone experience, even if there are more than enough workers.

We will need to find a volunteer to deal with the very early arrivals to get the waivers signed, similar to the folks who support tech, registration, etc. It can be made a "regular" position.

And thanks to the Group 4 workers who stayed for the whole show.

TedEBayer is spot on - a lot of these suggestions are things that one or two folks could deal with and it would be appreciated.

Let's have fun out there!

[lagunamiata]

Alright, we have some good ideas going. I'm sure the thread will get longer and longer.

I think JB's suggestion for a Auto-X board is a great place to start. I'm assuming (oh no!) that we should check with Steven before making the move on that, although he'll probably welcome the help.

[jbyrd]

lagunamiata said:

Alright, we have some good ideas going. I'm sure the thread will get longer and longer.

I think JB's suggestion for a Auto-X board is a great place to start. I'm assuming (oh no!) that we should check with Steven before making the move on that, although he'll probably welcome the help.

Yeah, but remember the last Solo meeting? Jon K. eloquently presented the idea, and our RE listened politely, then ignored it.

Good luck to us in forming it.

Again, this can't be a "raise your hand to volunteer committee." It has to be comprised of people who know what they are doing, and really want to be on it.

[jbyrd]

saabstory wrote:
"As far as waivers go, one worker at each lots entrance(2), Only one is needed at any site we autocross on during their respective work group, anyways, did we really need five people at each corner station. Then it would make sure everyone signs it, and might control public onlookers a little." Will control them a lot

Good idea, and we will work on it. Just a quick point is that this was by far the largest turnout, as was the number of folks working each session. As it was, we were able to fill a few positions that we often cannot do when we have a lack of workers. Also, we had a lot of novices at this event - so it is good for them to get some cone experience, even if there are more than enough workers.

We will need to find a volunteer to deal with the very early arrivals to get the waivers signed, similar to the folks who support tech, registration, etc. It can be made a "regular" position.

And thanks to the Group 4 workers who stayed for the whole show.

TedEBayer is spot on - a lot of these suggestions are things that one or two folks could deal with and it would be appreciated.

Let's have fun out there!

[C4Shane]

agreed...BTW - there is no reason we cant "just do it". most of these suggestions are things that just require some additional effort and very little, if any, $$$.

[jbyrd]

saabstory said:

agreed...BTW - there is no reason we cant "just do it". most of these suggestions are things that just require some additional effort and very little, if any, $$$.

Agree.

[jbyrd]

In fact, you are absolutely right. Most of it - we simply do it.

Now...I wish getting results posted were that simple. I'm sure we will have plenty of volunteers who are willing to do it....but......will the "powers that be" accecpt a volunteer to do it.

Or....has CCR Solo simply moved to the "back burner" of the CCR heirarchy.

[truk41]

When I said 2 waiver people, I was more or less speaking of the grid lot also since you can enter via that lot like a group did the other day to I guess hang out.

I did the SCR event at BMW late last year, I was impressed with everything. From waivers, grid, printouts, etc. The only bad, that Hill to walk up...(but thats a small thing)

[jbyrd]

lagunamiata said:

Alright, we have some good ideas going. I'm sure the thread will get longer and longer.

I think JB's suggestion for a Auto-X board is a great place to start. I'm assuming (oh no!) that we should check with Steven before making the move on that, although he'll probably welcome the help.

Actually, it's not for us to decide. It's simply up to Steven to decide if he wants it, and then to implement it if he does.

[jhd11]

Great Event and Thanks to all who put it on. This may have been mentioned previously but I am also a member of the local Triumph Club and the club provided us name tags. Wearing name tags would be a very good way to identify those in the know! If there is any interest, I would be happy to follow up on price, etc. Thanks.

Joe Downer

[pistonwheels]

I enjoy reading all this stuff - repetitively every year it seems
.
Regarding waivers. At times in the past, we have placed someone at the entrance to the parking area and had them get everyone arriving to sign waivers. The people assigned to that job got REALLY FRUSTRATED, because they felt they were out of touch with everything going on, which they were. Being stuck over in that corner for 90 minutes or more is no fun. It seems a small inconvenience, but those are what spoil a persons day.

Regarding the use of Waivers and our liability - and this is my solely my interpretation from asking questions at the National Convention: We should ensure that ALL competitors sign waivers. We should ensure that ALL minors who are competing have a Minor waiver on file. We should TRY and ensure that all guests of competitors sign waivers/minor waivers.

We should define the "event area" being the course and hot grid. We should restrict spectators to areas outside of the "event area" and hot grid.

On Sunday, I mentioned to a few people that if we keep spectators out of the grid and the area where you drove from grid to course, we should be fine.

Its a good idea to have spectators sign waiver forms and one I'm in favor off, but it is impossible at Knights on a day like last Sunday to ensure everyone signs and we probably don't need to. If that area is a public parking area - which it is, then we have very little liability if someone drives in and hits another car or some similar incident. We do need to ensure that no cars are left unattended on jacks, no wheels are left lying in bad positions, etc.

Its better for us to have someone patrolling the grassy bank to ensure that no one sits in an area that COULD be subject to a car encroachment (recall the Miata on Saturday!) than wandering the parking lot looking for a new spectator.

We are probably more pro-active than 90% of other clubs. CCR was first to request notarized minor waiver forms - something that has now spread.

Mention was made about timing slips - the board approved expenditure for Steven to purchase a printer for this last year. I believe he did, but I don't think the system works that well - I may be wrong. I think Steven found that by the time the laptop sent the info to the printer and the slip got printed, the driver had left the area.

Mention was made about CCR Board's commitment to Solo. Well, as some of you know, I was Solo Chair for several years before I was your R.E. I think the BoD is very committed to SOlO. We have to balance it to all the other club activities though.

Let me ask - how committed are you. based on the response to the vote for new Directors last year - and the vote for approval of the By-Laws, its not that much. I know that may seem harsh, but as Shane mentions, we're all volunteers and to get things done takes work by all of us.

A lot of the ideas are great but we often run into the problem that the person who takes on a task - let's say erecting signage at the event - doesn't come to an event and then that task either falls on Steven or a-n-other or doesn't get done.

We DO have a Solo committee. I went to a meeting at the Palace of China last year when there were about 18 people in attendance.

How many of you attend the club social evenings on the last Friday of the month (two at the last one). Here's an opportunity to present suggestions to the BoD. The reason they are on the last Friday is that the BoD meets the first Tuesday, so suggestions at the social can be addressed the following week by the BoD.

Car Classing is the responsibility of the competitor. How many of you have bought or downloaded the Solo rule book. The classes change regularly. You cannot expect the tech person (a volunteer) to know whether your Honda Accord with the Lexus 400 engine and Pontiac rear axle is in SM or Prepared. How long would it take you to look up details of your own car once a year?

That previous question will raise the question of Novices. I don't expect Novices to know their car class - or where to look even. So that's a separate subject. But to answer one question raised, the reason we do worry about where a Novice is classed (rather than just let them run anywhere because they are not worried at that stage) is because it may affect OTHER Novices, whose PAX time is related to each other. And there are end-of-year trophies at stake.

I have told Steven that I want us to get to the ATL-region style of registering, with bar-codes on cars and a sort-of credit card given to regulars, so that you arrive-and-swipe. Then your car's bar code is read at Start and off you go. They also run wireless timing lights. If we set up a wi-fi system for timing, then we may also be able to set up a "spare" computer monitor slaved to Timing such that entrants could read all results from the screen and see exactly what was entered, so if you think you didn't hit that cone and they said you did, you could ask about it.

I'm not trying to negate the suggestions made in the forum thread, I think they are very worthwhile and I hope to see some of them come to fruition. Just wanted to give a little view-from-the-other-side.

That's enough rambling for a while.

Just be aware that your BoD is very aware AND supportive of the Solo program.

Martin Bartlett.
CCR Regional Executive.

[C4Shane]

jhd11 said:

Great Event and Thanks to all who put it on. This may have been mentioned previously but I am also a member of the local Triumph Club and the club provided us name tags. Wearing name tags would be a very good way to identify those in the know! If there is any interest, I would be happy to follow up on price, etc. Thanks.

Joe Downer

Joe - that would be great. although an event T-shirt is a good identifier, it may not always be practical due to weather, or the fact that some of us like to wear shirts related to our car/team etc. Name badges would be great.

[C4Shane]

Martin - really appreciate the comments! You hit the nail on the head. What it really comes down to is to follow the advice of NIKE and "just do it". Let's get together at the next social and lay out some tasks. Come prepared to volunteer to do SOMETHING. My wife - who doesn't compete and would rather sleep in - volunteered to be registrar for the year, incl the HDPE - Because it was needed to make this work for all of us. Just an example - So if we follow the many suggestions above, we need the following at the next social:
- volunteers to show up
- Sign guy to make signs/get made - what type/what is needed?
- badges - what/how many - who?
- Cone board to teach novice workers - I'll do that!
- volunteers to address waivers - Martin's ideas are good and we need to consider where the waiver person should be. Maybe near the grid/course area?
- Newsletter!!! we talk about it all the time - even if it was autocross specific it would be nice to have one that can be used to keep our new novices engage...send it out by email?..
See ya at the next social!

[roundman]

I like the way the times were called out on the new pa sysyem..i knew things would be a littel wacky just because of the great turn out we had 189 cars holly cow with a turn out like that i thought it went good ;D