Isle Of Man Tourist Trophy Races Marshal
What is Marshalling?
Marshals are the people that stand at the side of the track in deeply unfashionable high-visibilty tabards and wave flags. At least, that's probably what you think now. They actually are a team of organised men and women who improve the safety of races. Duties include signalling with flags, moving/removing stricken machinery and debris, giving first aid, being the eyes and ears of the race controller around the track and more.
What are the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy Races?
Also known as "the TT", it's one of the longest running events in motorsport. Held in a fortnight long festival of motorcycle racing, appreciation and celebration, the TT races offer an astounding 37.75 mile Mountain Course that twists through narrow villages and bumpy country lanes you'd think twice at taking at speed.
This year's winner
averaged 129.45mph. For 17 and a half minutes.
That kind of pace for that kind of distance means safety is very important. A "line of sight" marshaling policy needs a lot of people. Interested?
How do I start marshaling?
Check the website (link at the bottom) and click the link "Want to marshal?" - read and digest.
Go to the TT races (you'll have trouble for 2007 - it's the centenary year and ferry places are rare!), go to the office behind the grandstand and ask the friendly people there.
How much does it cost?
Marshalling costs you your time and expenses to get to your post, feed yourself and whatever you need to survive (from suncream to water to a wooly jumper!). Offset against knowing you're helping the TT continue and providing assistance to the riders/teams/everyone involved it's nothing.
What about Clothing or Equipment?
Depending on the weather, anything from a waterproof, warm jacket to a sun hat and suncream. Sturdy boots and a tough jacket may be adventageous, but normal sensible clothing is fine.
Is there any training?
Yes. In addition to a training video, the people in your sector will train you on the basics and assign a role that suits you. You will be supervised at all times and told exactly what to do (and what not to do). At any time, ask your superior if you're unsure about anything.
Any down sides?
No photos, no drinking/etc. You're there to be ready to help people, which you aren't if you're behind a lens or an alcohol-induced fog.
I marshaled this year for my first time and I was massively impressed with the organisation and professionalism of the marshal's association. I (thankfully) was only involved in one incident, but when it happened there was no fuss - it was straight to business. I'll be signing up as soon as I get there next year.
Official TT Marshals site:
http://www.iomttma.com/
Official TT site:
http://www.iomtt.com
Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isle_of_Man_TT
On board lap:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UDrX_3coqM