Re: Watkins Glen/Trackmasters events & heltmets

[Marshall Fletcher <marshall@fletch.roc.servtech.com>]

Chris Newbold wrote:
> 
> I received an invitation the other day from my local Audi dealership
> (John Holtz, Rochester, NY) for a driver training course at Watkins
> Glen with Trackmasters: it's a one-day event for $145. Though it
> seems a bit abriviated, it is limited to 45 drivers, so it seems
> like an ideal opportunity to get into track driving (I've been
> itching to actually do it for several years now...) with plently
> of one-on-one instruction.
> 
> Anyone have any experience with these guys? Are they involved with
> the QCUSA event at Watkins this summer? Ideally, I'd like to start
> slowly with this and work up to the Quattro event this summer...
> 
> I'm going to need a helmet for such events, and frankly haven't
> a clue what I should be looking for. Any recommendations about
> brands/styles/ratings/etc. would be greatly appriciated. I'm not
> about to trust my noodle to some salesdroid... I have infinitely
> more confidence in y'all here on the list.
> 
> Thanks for any input.
> 
> -Chris

Chris

I was the event master for last year's WG event.  The fellow who runs 
Trackmasters was involved with the event.  His name is Geoff Helfond.  Great 
guy.  He has MUCH respect from the officials at the Glen.  I went to one of 
his events last year.  What you get will depend on many factors.  The event I 
attended was mostly open track time.  My wife also attended, and felt a 
little overwhelmed.  Find out if this will be a beginner oriented course or 
not.  Either way, I don't think you can go wrong.  

As for a helmet, try and get the latest Snell rating.  Helmets with a "SA" 
rating are preffered by most clubs.  Most clubs that I know of, will not take 
a motorcycle rated helmet. I mail ordered mine from some outfit in Troy NY.  
Found an ad in one of the car mags.

Please call if you want. If you are local, maybe you would be interested in 
helping with the QCUSA event.

Marshall Fletcher
716 654-7921
1359 Winton Road North
Rochester, NY  14609

Thanks

Fletch