Coaches

by Nick St. Laurent

As I mentioned elsewhere, I was lucky in 1997 to begin my four-wheel racing adventure with John and CT Hancock. Their knowledge of racing, particularly open wheel single seaters, was an incredible asset when I began my participation in the sport. The first year I was like a sponge soaking up every bit of information offered. Each track, every corner, was new territory to me. I prepared for each race by drawing myself a track map, in some cases using a page for each corner. Before my first session on track, I'd discuss the proper line and gear for each corner. After each session, we'd have a de-briefing session to talk about the car: balance, revs, temperature, oil pressure, ride height (did it bottom anywhere enough to upset the car?), and so on. Then we would move on to my questions and CT's observations about my driving. It was a year long school in the art of racing. As a result of all of this care and feeding, I was never too far off the pace, and chalked up my first national wins that summer. Even though my ability to provide handling feedback was still developing, I never had an ill-handling car that year.

If I were asked how to pick a coach, my advice would be… look for the winners in your neck of the woods. Ask around the paddock, or research the archives. Who are the outstanding drivers in your class of car in the past decade or two? Who has won or done exceptionally well at the Runoffs? Who has won the division championships? Who has set the lap records? It should go without saying that your coach will not be one of your active competitors, but more likely someone who has quit driving or moved on to a different class. You might also keep you eyes open for a competitor in your class or a similar class whose driving has improved markedly. Most likely, there's an excellent coach lurking in the shadows. Start with a deal for one weekend, and if you find that you can communicate well and and you get along well, then plan on sticking with your coach for a few race weekends. I believe that no matter where you are in your racing career, it makes sense periodically asking a respected driver/coach to observe you and comment, particularly when your driving has become stagnant or you are having a difficult time with a track. You never know when the synapses in your noggin might just click together and form a revelation.

Copyright Nick St. Laurent; all rights reserved.