QUARTER MIDGET RACING ASSOCIATION
TRAINING AND
SAFETY PROGRAM
PART I. INTRODUCTION
This format is a guide to the associations training course for their novice drivers. With this outline, plus your own innovations, a fairly complete course can be offered to the novice.
1.
PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM
a.
To instruct all drivers in the basic procedures
of Quarter Midget racing.
b.
To promote the safety of the drivers from a
drivers viewpoint
c.
To offer to all drivers, an opportunity to
improve upon their driving techniques through non-competitive and competitive
practice sessions with qualified adult supervision.
d.
To train newcomers in the proper observance of
their drivers safety.
PART II. GENERAL
INFORMATION
1.
INSTRUCTORS GUIDE
A. In training the novice driver, it is well to keep in mind that the period of concentration is limited to not more than ten to fifteen minutes at a time. Therefore, it is recommended that each phase of instruction be limited to that time and then followed by either a short rest period or an actual on-the-track practice session. The latter being the most desired by the novice driver.
B.
Before any novice driver is allowed on the
track, the instructor should assure himself that every precaution for the new
driver’s safety has been taken. A safety check on every car should be made, to
insure that all safety equipment is included and in working order. Special
attention should be directed to the on-off switch, (i.e., proper location,
proper sequence of operation, etc.), safety belt, brakes, roll-bar (pinned and
at least the minimum required distance above driver’s head). New owners are
often times uneducated regarding safety equipment requirements, so check
carefully.
C.
The novice driver should be completely briefed
on the procedures to be followed in stopping the car in the event of trouble or
discomfort with the speed of the car. It is recommended that
PART II. INSTRUCTORS
GUIDE (CONT’D)
C. every novice driver has a full knowledge of all the flags and
hand
signals before being
allowed on the track in the car. Include in your briefing a review of the
meanings of the red, yellow and black flags and where you want the drivers to
stop on the red flag. Instruct your novice driver that the steering wheel is
his/her “best friend” and that he/she should only take their hands off of it
when operating the on-off switch. Show him/her that they cannot “hold up” the
car, by gently rolling them over on to their side while belted in the car. Some
drivers are very apprehensive of this procedure, so it may be necessary to
assure them that they are safe. Be sure to tell the novice driver that you are
not interested primarily in speed on the first day or two of training, but
merely to getting them used to the car in motion. Let them set their own speed,
but have them remain constant with it and not “letting up” in the corners.
(Occasionally, with younger drivers, it has been found that limiting the
accelerator pedal travel for the first few times on the track, has been very
helpful in bringing up a timid driver.)
D.
The instructor should keep in mind, at all
times, that he is dealing with children and to keep all explanations as simple
as possible. (A small blackboard can be useful in explaining track situations)
The novice driver is in need of confidence both in himself as a driver and in
his car. A small amount of praise, whenever possible, will bring results far
beyond the instructor’s expectations. This also applies to having a great deal
of patience when the driver has had repeated errors or cannot seem to grasp the
subject matter being covered. Younger drivers will require additional attention
and additional patience. In order to hold the attention of the novices it is
necessary to meet them half way, by becoming a “pal”, but remaining far enough
aloof to command their respect. Find time to know your students, find out what
their fears are and appreciate them as being quite real and at the same time,
try to alleviate them by logical explanations. Pass your confidence on to them.
E.
Mothers and Fathers should be encouraged to attend
the oral sessions and ask questions whenever they are in doubt on any
particular item or point. Parents should not, however, be allowed into the
track area while their child is driving. This has been found to lead to
self-consciousness on the part of the driver and tends to prevent them from
concentrating on doing their best. Many times the distraction of a parent
cheering will cause the driver to lose concentration, resulting in an accident.
PART II. INSTRUCTORS
GUIDE (CONT’D)
2.
HINTS THAT MAY HELP
A.
PYLONS:
The use of pylons has proven
to be an immense help in training the novice driver. It is recommended that the
pylons be used in the first session on the track to establish the basic
pattern. Twelve pylons may be used to facilitate this lesson. (See
illustration #1). One pylon being placed on each side of the track in the
straightaway, about 7-8 paces out from the white line/wall in the center of the
straight-aways. One pylon should be placed on each corner, about the width of a
car from the line and in the center. Place 8 gate pylons, 2 each between the
corner and straightaway pylons, (as shown in illustration #1). Instruct the
novice driver that they are to drive to the outside of the pylons in the
straight-aways, between the gate pylons, and as close to the line in the
corners, inside the pylon. The driver will automatically be setting a pattern
that will eliminate the usual “line pinching” so common with most beginners. It
is also most helpful to “walk” your novices through whatever pattern you are
trying to prescribe.
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ILLUSTRATION #1
PART II. GENERAL
INFORMATION
A. REACTIONS TO SUDDEN HAZARDS
By the third session, the
novice should be able to react to sudden hazards appearing in front of the car.
This has been accomplished with some success by the instructor standing on one
of the corners or elsewhere on the track, with a pylon held out of sight of the
driver. As the car approaches, the pylon is flipped into the path of the
oncoming car. (note: care must be exercised that the pylon does not hit the car
or the driver.) This practice will enable the instructor to judge the reflex
ability of the driver and point out to the novice that they must be constantly
alert while on the track.
NOTE: It is helpful if
sometime during your previous oral sessions, a pylon is shown to the class at
close range and
carefully pointed out that
it is made of soft rubber and will not
harm them.
REFLECTIONS
The above are offered
merely as aids in your instruction of the novice driver. You, yourself, may
have a few of your own demonstrations, however, remember that caution must be
exercised at all times, that nothing is used that will cause loss of confidence
of the driver, that is, by making the test too difficult. Even if a driver
fails a test the first few times, point out the mistakes each time in a
friendly manner, but always fine “something good” in what they did and praise
them for that.
PART III. FLAGS, HAND SIGNALS, AND SAFETY
1.
THE FLAGS:
A.
Every driver and car owner/handler must know the
meaning and color of each flag. A driver should not be allowed on the track
until they have demonstrated they know their flags and their meanings. Point
out that flags and hand signals are the only way to communicate with the driver
when the car is in motion.
Color and meaning of
the QMA flags now in use throughout the nation:
THE
FLAGS (CONT’D)
RED -Stop
Immediately
YELLOW -
Caution…Slow Down…No
Passing
GREEN Start…Increase
Speed…Go
-
BLACK -Disqualified…Go
to pits
WHITE -One
lap to go – Take one
lap
CHECKERED -Finish-Slow
Down After
Crossing Start/Finish Line
GREEN AND YELLOW -Held Vertically andParallel:
One in each
hand Denotes
“Formup”
Side by Side for Original Start.
Held Together in one hand
Overhead Denotes Restart
In Single File.
BLACK AND YELLOW -All
Cars Slow Down And
Exit Track
2.
HAND SIGNALS USED AND THEIR MEANING:
A.
Hand signals are as important as flags and care
should be taken that all novice drivers are able to recognize those listed
below. Give examples of the use of each hand signal.
1.
Finger drawn across throat In slashing motion -
Turn off switch and stop
2.
Hands held flat in downward motion - Slow Down
3.
Thumb and Index Finger in Open/Close Motion -
Give it More Throttle/Gas
.
PART III. FLAGS,
HAND SIGNALS, AND SAFETY (CONT”D)
4.
Any Flag held in furled position, with one or
more
Fingers held above it - Take number of laps indicated by fingers,
then take action required by flag.
5.
Arms extended to the front in an opening/closing
motion - Move in or out as indicated.
6.
Finger pointing to eyes - Pay attention, watch
where you are going
7. Finger
pointing to top of head - Helmet loose/missing
8. Hand
or Flag pointing to rear end - Move to the back of the pack.
3.
THE CAR AND SAFETY:
A.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND IT”S PURPOSE:
1. SWITCH Location
and its purpose
2. BRAKE Operation
and purpose
3. SAFETY BELT Reasons
for use, how tight?
4. HELMET What
type, why & when worn, how tight?
5. VISOR What
type, why and when worn
6. JACKET What
type, why they are required
7. SUIT What
type, why they are required
8. GLOVES Purpose,
what type used
9. ROLL BAR Purpose, height, describe why they must be pinned
10. FIRE WALL Purpose,
explain why it should be extended
below
belly pan, (Check all cars to be sure
that
belly pan has been removed under the
engine.)
11. BUMPERS Purpose,
explain why it’s important not to
have
any broken parts
12. NERFING BARS Purpose, explain why it’s important not to
have
any broken parts
B.
CAR SAFETY, DO’S AND DON’TS:
1.
The car is definitely not a toy.. it is not to
be played with in the usual sense of the word.
C.
CAR SAFETY, DO’S AND DON’TS: (CONT’D)
2.
Obey the flag person, they are in charge out on
the track. Do not take signals from the pit area during an event.
(explain why: disqualification, taking eyes away from the track can cause
accidents, etc.)
3.
Keep in mind what you are doing… not to what you
did last week, or what you will do tomorrow.
4.
Do not watch or wave to the spectators, mother,
or father. Keep your eyes on what is happening on the track in front of you.
5.
Do not chew gum or candy while driving. If
involved in an accident, you could choke.
6.
Before leaving the pit area for the track, always
check your safety equipment to be sure that it is in operating condition. Check
your roll bar, be sure it is pinned. Be sure your visor is clean and your
helmet is tight. Be sure your safety belt, neck collar, and gloves are tight.
7.
When leaving the pit area and coming out onto
the track, follow these simple steps:
a.
look for other cars already on the track, , do
not break into the flow of traffic – stay above the white line
b.
If the
flag person is on duty, wait for their signal before coming onto the track
c.
Do not drop into the flow of traffic already on
the track. Let the pack go by before dropping down to run your pattern
d.
Do not “play” with other drivers on the track.
“Fooling around” can cause accidents
e.
Tell your handler, should they attempt to refuel
you on the track, that they can only refuel you in the pits
f.
If someone is standing in the on chute or pit
lane area –STOP – do not run over them
8. Always
keep your switch in the “off” position when the
car is not
in use.
8.
Do not remain in the car during
refueling operation.
9.
Drivers should be cautioned to keep
elbows and hands
inside
the car at ALL times.
10.
When leaving the track to enter the pit
area:
a.
Look quickly behind you for other cars before
turning out of the traffic pattern.
B.
CAR SAFETY, DO’S AND DON’TS: (CONT’D)
b. Hold left hand up on the inside to
signal other drivers that you are
pulling out and going to the pits.
c.
After leaving the traffic pattern, move up to
the wall and follow it around until you reach the entrance.
d.
The car handler should be waiting at the pit
entrance for his driver.
1.
Upon reaching the pit entrance, driver should
drive slowly to the pit position and turn off switch and apply brake. Be sure
to allow room for any other cars that may also want to exit the track.
2.
Watch out for other drivers, handlers and cars
as you go to your pit position.
C.
SAFETY IN THE PIT AREA:
1.
Fuel and safety habit:
a.
Whenever the car is being refueled, the driver
is to leave the car and stand to one side – this applies at all times
b.
Handlers should not smoke while refueling.
c.
There will be no refueling on the track or in
the “Infield”. Refuel in the pit area only.
2.
Playing and/or rough-housing: No playing in the
pit area or out on the track. Cars, etc can hit drivers.
3.
Always stay near your car unless you have
permission from your handler to leave the area. Always tell your handler where
you will be… you could miss an event.
4.
When watching the program, always remain
“behind” the fence. Do not sit on exposed walls at the entrance to the track or
pit area.
5.
Do not attempt to help push a car off onto the
track. Let the adult car handler or owner tend to that chore.
PART IV. ON
TRACK TRAINING PROCEDURES
1.
Set up pylons/cones – See illustration #1 Page
#3.
2.
Test your student’s knowledge of the meanings of
the flags. Explain your basic hand signals to your student.
3.
Track Walk. Explain: (Instructor/Driver Only)
PART IV. ON
TRACK TRAINING PROCEDURES (CONT’D)
a.
Staging area line-up – point out driver/handler
only line, never drive into staging area, etc.
b.
Describe hot chute/pit area parking according to
the numbers
c.
Begin walking out onto the track “on chute”,
point out flagging positions for practice/qualifying, point out white “blend
line”. STAY ABOVE!!
d.
Join pattern through gate pylons, point out
where instructor would like student to drive: around outside of straight-away
pylon, through next gate, below turn pylon, etc. During walk ask driver
where they think they should go next to see if they are getting the idea, if
needed, walk 1 or 2 more times around.
e.
Show driver how to leave the track, demonstrate
the hand signal and where to drive, high in turns, etc,. When leaving track,
have hand on switch ready to stop.
f.
Show where to park/stop to get ready for
qualifying, and where to stop to leave pits – “pit gate”.
4.
Suit up driver: In car talk. After belting in:
a.
Describe steering wheel as the driver’s “Best
Friend”, “Buddy”, “You never let go of your buddy unless you need to turn car
on or off” (and of course to hold a checkered flag!).
b.
Tip car over on side – ask driver to hold up the
car – show them that they cannot hold up car, SO DON’T LET GO OF
YOUR BUDDY your hand could be smashed.
c.
Point out gas and brake pedals – demonstrate.
d.
Point out switch and its function – Ask driver
to look you in the eyes and remove hand from steering wheel to turn switch on.
Hands back on wheel. Drill your driver several times until driver can
confidently switch on and off. Example: Switch on (no peeking) Hands back on
wheel, Switch off (no peeking) Hands back on wheel, etc. Over and Over again is
good practice for the driver (no fair if you peek)
e.
Ask driver if they are ready to drive! And ask
if they have any questions, Dad have any questions?
f.
Retest them on flags and hand signals.
g.
Disengage drive axle spline if possible and tell
driver that you are going to push them around the track without the engine
running first, to see if they remember where to drive.
PART
IV. ON TRACK TRAINING PROCEDURES
(CONT’D)
h.
Push around track. Ask if they have any
questions. See if they are ready to try it with the engine running. Explain:
When handler starts pushing and taps you on the head, turn switch on. Drive!!
PUSH THEM OFF!!
5.
Drive pattern through and around pylons. As
drivers speed and pattern improves, begin removing pylons, remove gate pylons
in pairs first, leaving straight-away and corner pylons for last. Once all
pylons are removed and driver shows they can run pattern, stop them and praise
them for what they have
accomplished. “You are doing great, see you are so good you don’t need the
cones anymore”.
6.
Take a break – many kids will be pooped by this
point and need time to think about what they have accomplished. This is a good
stopping point:
For lessons during the week
after school – this may be the end of the first lesson.
For lessons on weekend –
(with more than one student) you could switch to next driver and go through the
drills with them.
7.
Possibly Second Session: (experienced driver
required)
a.
suit up and review switch drill, flags, and hand
signals.
b.
Have student drive alone to see if they have
remembered what they learned in the first session. If positive, then proceed to
passing game. If negative, place corner and straight-away pylons back on the
track to help reinforce last session. Usually the pattern will come back to the
driver quickly.
c.
Test reactions to sudden hazards on track (as
described in Part II, paragraph 2.B.) in order to see if they are ready to have
another car on the track with them. Remember to remind driver that the cones
are made of soft rubber, do not let them know you will be throwing one out in
front of them.
d.
The Passing Game: At this point an experienced
driver is necessary. Have both cars stop in the turn, single file, and describe
how you want the rear car to pass the front car, on the inside coming out of
the turn. (The handlers can demonstrate
by pretending they are cars and passing each other.) Emphasize that they cannot
pass on the outside, and how that would cause an accident if they tried.
e.
Start off the passing game by instructing the
experienced driver to be the first to pass, and to slow down once they have
passed the student. The student will likely be slow and tentative, and this
will make it easier for the two cars to drive single file. Once the experienced
driver has passed the student, have them slow down so the student may pass.
Continue this exercise until the student is passing with confidence. In many
cases this will be a good time to stop – Ask if they would like a break. Having
achieved confidence with another
PART
IV. ON TRACK TRAINING PROCEDURES
(CONT’D)
e.
car on the track, many students will realize
they want to continue training. Some students, especially the very young, may
not want to continue. Emphasize that they are “the boss” in the car and they
don’t have to drive if they don’t want to. Ask them if they would like to go
home and think about it some more, and come back another time.
f.
End the session by asking the parents if they
think they would like to continue training, and if so that we would like them
too join the club. Have them contact the membership director.
2.
3rd Session: (Experienced driver
required)
a.
Review all that they have learned so far to
reinforce the ideas of patter, passing, flags, and hand signals (on track
also.) Stop the cars at the Start/Finish line.
b.
Describe the form-up flags, crossed for start,
vertical for restart. Describe the “forming-up” by placing the student on the
pole and indicating where on the track you want them to drive, low in turns and
straights, leaving room on the outside for the #2 car. Emphasize: that the pole
car controls the pace and needs to watch where they are going not
the other car! Tell them to be steady on the speed, don’t speed up and slow
down.
c.
Describe the form-up flags again to reinforce.
d.
Describe the switch position signals and what to
do, i.e.: pole car moves forward, outside car falls in behind to switch
positions, outside car becomes pole car.
e.
Tell the student they will begin this exercise
as #1 pole car, place experienced driver to the #2 position.
f.
Push cars off and display crossed green and
yellow form-up flags. After a few laps if they are lining up well, display the
switch signal with flags and see what happens! Most students will have trouble
keeping up in the turns. Tell them to stay close to the pole car, and speed up
a little, to maintain the form-up. This may take 2 or 3 training sessions (be
patient).
g.
Once the student can maintain the line up,
outside position, stop both cars and ask if they are tired and want a break,
questions, etc. If they wish to continue, set up a mock race with any other
available cars. Assign each car a starting position, with the student starting
on the outside. Point out that for races at Baylands the flagging position and
start/finish is on the opposite side of the track from practice/qualifying
flagging position. Push off and call for form-up, green flag race when form-up
is correct and allow them to race for 4-5 laps or so. Display a yellow, and
assign numbers through hand signals. Once form-up is tight, throw the green for
another 5-6 laps, display white flag and end with the student taking the
checkered! Black flag all other cars
PART IV. ON
TRACK TRAINING PROCEDURES (CONT’D)
g. and allow the student to take a victory lap holding the checkered flag – Hurray!! Take a break.
3.
Qualifying: (Next session, or after break)
a.
Describe the qualifying procedure: after 7
minute warm-up, cars stop on pit parking spot according to paper number. For
qualifying this will also be their qualifying order.
b.
Describe flag persons hand signals of furled
green flag with 5 fingers held above it counting down the warm-up laps.
c.
Describe to the handler and driver warm-up laps,
then the green flag laps on the clock, i.e.: back to back, or split times, show
the handler how to signal the tower. When they are shown the checkered slow down
after passing the checkered, and exit the track immediately. Stop at the pit
gate. Tell handler where he needs to be during qualifying. Once leaving off
chute, let them know that they need to go to scales.
d.
Trainer will then go to flag position and have
handler push off car for 7 min. warm-up (handler stays behind fence.) If any
other novice cars are available send them out for realism. Black and yellow
flag all cars, be sure they hit their pit spot. Remind handler to go to infield
and signal tower.
e.
Qualify the student and have them exit the
track. If they make a mistake, give them another chance to qualify, reinforce
what they have learned. If successful tell them that the training is complete.
They may need to come back one more time for full review and graduation. Or if
you feel they are ready to race –
WELCOME THEM TO NOW BEING A
RACER!!