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 (and may to some extent be involved 
this year).  His name is Geoff Helfond.  Great guy.  He gets MUCH respect 
from the officials at the Glen.  He's THE ONE to have there with you.

I went to one of his events last year.  The event I attended was mostly open 
track time, very little instruction.  My wife attended as a beginner, and 
felt a little overwhelmed.  Find out if this particular outing will be a 
beginner oriented course or not.  Either way, I don't think you can go wrong.
Track driving is the most fun you can have sitting down. IMOH

As for a helmet, try and get the newest Snell rating.  Almost every 
club I have seen REQUIRES Snell 1985 or newer.  Helmets with an "SA"
rating are preffered by most clubs.  Most clubs that I know of, will not 
accept a helmet rated for motorcycles. I mail ordered mine from some outfit 
in Troy NY.  Found the ad in one of the car mags.  I think I paid around 
$250.  Don't skimp, remember, it's your head inside there.  

Give me a call sometime. 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