Worker Tips

What to wear
Course workers need to wear what most seasoned SCCA members refer to as “Whites” (for reasons that will quickly become obvious as you read on). “Whites” is an outfit consisting of a white shirt and white pants. White painter type coveralls will also work. White can easily be seen. This is especially important for a hill climb where there are spots where sight can be somewhat obstructed in certain areas. While our standards for what is “white” are likely not as high as what Grandma would require, we strongly urge all course worker volunteers to wear white (even if it is a bit dingy). The “Whites” should be 100% cotton because cotton breathes and will not melt to the skin if exposed to flame…hope that got your attention.
Usually the best and easiest source of 100% cotton pants is a paint or hardware store (you‘ve probably seen “Painter Pants” at a store near you). Usually for a shirt an old button-down dress shirt over a white T-shirt is the easiest way to go. Again, stay away from polyester/cotton blends- use 100% cotton. You may express yourself with the most ridiculous hat you have the gumption to wear. Of course you have to be able to see out from under it! Even in the fall, you might want your funny hat to provide some shade. Leather shoes are recommended, also keep in mind you will be on your feet most of the day, so you want to be comfortable on your feet.
What to Bring
You might want to also pack the following on your adventure: (we want you to be comfortable and enjoy yourself):
  • Cooler, ice, and drink: Hopefully we don’t have to say no alcohol, but…no alcohol
  • Whistle: You want to be heard if necessary…the louder the better
  • Sunglasses or eye protection
  • Ear plugs: Some race cars can be loud when you’re so close to the action. ( If you have logged several rock concerts you can skip this one)
  • A multi-tool or pocket knife: As the scouts say, “be prepared”
  • Sun screen and Lip Balm: Trust us on this one.
  • Aspirin or personal medicine
  • Bandana- you can soak in cold water and wear it around the neck for its cooling effect and style. This is yet another opportunity to accessorize.
  • Garbage bags: You never know what you can use a plastic bag for besides trash… and if you can’t find anything more clever to use it for, you can use it for trash
  • Duct tape: Never go anywhere without duct tape!
  • RAEG NIAR!! : Read that backwards because it should not be said out loud.

That should get you comfortably through the weekend. If you forget something, just ask. Someone might have brought extra, or you can support
Jackson Co. businesses by stocking up on forgotten supplies at one of the friendly local stores.

Now you are ready to go! You will be assigned a position on course by the worker chief at the workers meeting Saturday morning. If you are new to this you will have a “corner captain” that will be experienced and will help you understand what is going on. As opposed to a road race, at a hillclimb there is not quite as much to do, however the most important and most easily executable job is to keep keen attention to the racecars coming up the hill past your station. For the most part being a course worker means having a front-row seat, but if and when action is required, you must be completely ready. If something like a car breakdown or a spin happens, action must taken immediately to prevent a dangerous situation. The life of a driver or multiple drivers could be at stake. Safety is #1.
A more complete guide to Flagging and Communication can be found at the following address courtesy of the Texas Region, SCCA. Some of this is applicable only to racetrack situations, but there is a lot of good information if you want to take your new skills to assist other race events:
http://www.texasscca.org/novice.pdf
 

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