I generally compare auto racing to golf: a golfer can purchase amazing clubs, the best balls, nice clothes, and take professional lessons, but nonetheless their score may not improve.
Racing teams can purchase the best vehicle, tires, radios, hole equipment, matching clothing, and secure the very best pit crew, but this may not solidify podium finishes.
If your driver can’t finish the race, it’s worth naught.
The key to car racing victory lies within the mind of the driver. They tend to have personality traits which dictate their reactions and foresight about the race track.
An insecure driver will fail to reach the podium. This kind of driver seeks ego-boosting moments rather than simply finishing races, and nudges from other drivers trigger illogical decisions during pressure circumstances – like driving too fast into a corner so that they can retake a competitor, causing their vehicle being loose.
A naturally talented driver is like a road visionary or psychic. It’s almost as though they are able to read other drivers’ minds, anticipating each and every move and staying away from crashes. The vehicle becomes an extended limb as they feel their way round the track, not just ‘driving’. It’s an emotional and spiritual experience on their behalf. Subconsciously they can read a track just like a good golfer reads the putt.
During a race, the driver must follow the preset plan, or the team within the pits becomes disconnected, and people will start second-guessing themselves, leading to a complete breakdown of teamwork.
Above all else, a crew chief needs to ensure their driver is sticking with the initial plan. If the driver will not listen, they must be replaced, otherwise the team will encounter fuel mileage problems, fatigue issues, broken parts, and wasted money.
Pit crew members are knowledgable within their respective areas. Sometimes a pit crew member knows a particular track or race much better than anyone, almost like an area golf caddy. They know about automobile performance, weather, the monitor, other drivers, tactics and much more.
If a driver is closed minded to their crew, the race is already lost. Listening to crew people and acknowledging them drastically improves attitudes within the pits. This is a staple of championship groups.
Remember to run your personal race. Your team and sponsors will be served best by a podium, or at the minimum finishing.
Focus on keeping the automobile healthy and listening for your pit crew’s advice.
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