[GM01SS]

I am considering going thru a Instructor training school with my local BMW club. Just wondering who here is a instructor for Open track events, and any down side to instructing?

I am VERY new to this side of open tracking, but really enjoy it

Comments?

Thanks (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/ph34r.gif)

[KeithO]

Hey, if this is an advice section, then here goes:

1) When you meet the student and get through the introductions, ask what he/she is looking to get out of the day. The range is "I want to be a professional racer" to "I just want to get through this without breaking anything". This will give you insight into the mindset of the student.
2) Ask about previous track experience. If they have previous experience at other tracks that you know, you can often convey ideas by drawing parallels to the other track.
3) Ask him/her to tell you what they covered in the classroom session. This will tell you alot about the student and also tell you what you need to watch out for.
4) Check over his car. Even if there is tech, have him/her pop the hood, ask about mods (who DOESN'T like to talk about their mods), ask about the brake fluid, pads, oil/flui age, etc. Get to know the car and the student.
5) I use a communication device as described above. It cost me about $100 but I found that student take you more seriously when they see that you went out and bought a teaching aid.
6) Take the student out for rides. Tell the student that you are going to make one mistake per lap and ask him/her to pipe up when you make. As you interleave your rides with theirs, you can work on things.

I truly take alot of pride in some of my student's progress. One of them is now turning faster laps than I turn (in an admittedly superior car) and I am pretty sure that at least one of them will be racing against me next year in American Iron!