Returning Marshal

Englishman · 14 Jan 2006, 16:24 (Ref:1501201)

After 9 years on the bank I took last year off from marshalling. Over the Christmas holiday I have ummed and ahhed about what to do for this season and have finally decided to return.

Why did I take a year off?

I'd started to get fed up with the lack of appreciation from some clubs (I don't mean financial just common old appreciation) and the plainly stupid timetables of many clubs. I'd also become tired of listening to fellow marshals moan but still volunteer. Not wanting to get the same I decided to get some time away.

What makes me return?

Mainly I miss being close to the action and playing my part in motorsport. Watching MotorsTV isn't the same as being on the bank.

Also I missed the marshalling cameraderie, yes some are moaners but most are great company and entertainment for a weekend.

So what am I doing?

I always wanted to be a flag marshal, so this year I'm going to do it. Training first, Cadwell Park here I come!! Then book some dates through the season with clubs that don't take the P.

Hope to see some of you during the season. If any of you experienced flag marshals have some tips I'm always keen to listen and learn.

Have a good season everyone,

The Returnee

Stoowert · 14 Jan 2006, 17:40 (Ref:1501235)

Welcome back Mr Englishman. Have you been out in the midday sun?

As for flagging tips. I always hold the stick end and wave the pretty coloured bit. Never did me any harm!

I think flagging is the best part of marshalling to get into, as even if nothing much is happening your job holds your concentration. This makes even the most dire practice session go with a swing...

Grandslammer · 14 Jan 2006, 20:05 (Ref:1501294)

Flagging tips,don't be afraid to make some mistakes

.
Like Stoowert mentions,concentration is the 'name of the game' and when it all comes together,it is very satisfying

.

KayBee · 14 Jan 2006, 20:50 (Ref:1501324)

Do you intend to do most of your marshalling at Cadwell?

Pete Howarth and several other Cadwell marshals post on this forum so I'm sure that they will be able to help you.

With regard to actual flagging don't be surprised to find that you're a lot more tired at the end of the day's proceedings than from your previous duties - flagging takes it out of you.

Pete Howarth · 14 Jan 2006, 21:45 (Ref:1501344)

Mr Englishman welcome back, I will be at Cadwell training day, assisting at sign on.

John Watson · 14 Jan 2006, 23:20 (Ref:1501395)

Mr.Englishman, am I right in assuming your name is Adrian, if so I have received your 'On-Line' availability, duly booked you in, and look forward to not only your visit on Training day, but your return to Marshalling. I would also like to point you to two Clubs that will give you what you want, namely the 750MC and of course my own Club the MG Car Club.

blackx · 14 Jan 2006, 23:23 (Ref:1501397)

Quote:

Originally Posted by John Watson

I would also like to point you to two Clubs that will give you what you want, namely the 750MC and of course my own Club the MG Car Club.

Spot on...
Couldnt have said it better myself..

Shelagh · 15 Jan 2006, 15:15 (Ref:1501688)

Flagging - best job on the circuit!

Never boast that you have "never shown a green instead of a blue" - it will immediately happen in the next session.

Always remember that if you are flagging on your own then you will, by default, ALWAYS be looking in the wrong direction! (It can't just happen to me, can it?)

Get a Scanner (don't read this anyone with the BARC). If you are at a meeting without radio contact then it gives you prior warning that red flag/safety car is imminent so that you can get prepared (and we all know you wouldn't act on what you heard).

Otherwise, enjoy when you get it right but don't worry when you lose track of a race and haven't got a clue of who is where. I know I don't!!!!!

Peter Harding · 16 Jan 2006, 00:15 (Ref:1502015)

and put a note in your diary keeping 30 Apr/1 May and 24/25 June free (750MC at Cadwell)

Englishman · 16 Jan 2006, 20:11 (Ref:1502623)

Thanks for the comments.

John, You are correct, That is I. 750MC have been a long term favourite and the MGCC are the ones who got me into marshalling so I'm fairly sure they will be getting a fair share of my days.

See you all on Sunday at Cadwell.

johngee · 17 Jan 2006, 16:43 (Ref:1503200)

Welcome back! Don't forget the HSCC comes to Cadwell and we'll be delighted to have you there.

Mark Mitchell · 18 Jan 2006, 19:37 (Ref:1503958)

Sorry to Hijack slightly but my wife, Lisa will also be "Returning" in 2006 after a 4yr break.
She's apprehensive but looking forward to getting back into her probans!

mitzi dude · 18 Jan 2006, 23:20 (Ref:1504112)

Welcome back english man, you made the wise chioce, Iwas thinkin of the same thing not that long ago.but thought better of it. Hpoe your season goes well. Rob

Andy Metcalf · 21 Jan 2006, 08:57 (Ref:1505769)

You're in good company. I will be returning to the Orange clan this year after recovering from my medical problems. That is providing the overalls fit ok.

Peter Harding · 21 Jan 2006, 12:21 (Ref:1505936)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy Metcalf

You're in good company. I will be returning to the Orange clan this year after recovering from my medical problems. That is providing the overalls fit ok.

You could always borrow the wife's overalls as long as you can get a couple of grapefruit (oops- sorry I shouldn't have mentioned those)

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