1. Visit the pit lane walkabout
The BTCC is one of the most accessible top sporting events out there and the pit lane walkabout is your chance to meet the drivers. Taking place around the lunchtime break, all of the drivers are at hand to meet the fans, pose for photographs and give away signed posters. It is also a good opportunity to wander the pit lane and have a closer look at the touring cars as they sit in the pit garages. If you’ve never been to the pit lane walkabout then this is a must and it is advisable to wait at the end of the pit lane at least 10 minutes before the session starts.
2. Arrange a barbeque
The BTCC may be on a summer break at the moment but when it kicks back into action at Snetterton in August, its highly likely that it will be a hot weekend. Watching the weekend’s racing whilst sat in a prime position with a barbeque makes for a great atmosphere and there aren’t many sporting events where such a scenario is possible. Obviously we would advise taking a small, portable barbeque and disposing of it safely once it has fully cooled down.
3. Spectate from more than one corner
Whilst it may be tempting to set up at one particular corner for the day, saving yourself a good view, variety can sometimes make things that little bit more interesting. Many fans will stay put however so you run the risk of losing out on a good vantage point. If you’re taking plenty of photos then moving around will make your photo album all the more interesting. Some circuits have more good viewing points than others – at Rockingham, for example, you may be better off remaining in the main grandstand. At circuits such as Thruxton and Croft you are also somewhat restricted as to which corners can be accessed. However at Oulton Park, Silverstone and Brands Hatch getting a different perspective on things can improve the day that little bit.
4. Take the right gear
There’s nothing worse than being outside in the pouring rain with completely the wrong gear. If you’re making a long journey then there’s a good chance the weather at the destination may be completely different to your start point. We would reccommend the following:
- A good umbrella – although only to be used if absolutely necessary as it easily impedes the view of those behind you.
- A waterproof coat – you never know if the blazing sunshine could turn into a late afternoon thunderstorm.
- Sunglasses and suncream – even if it’s not clear skies it’s very easy to get sunburnt when spending all day outside.
- Spare batteries – in case you get snap-happy and your camera uses a set.
- Seats or a stool – standing up all day can make your legs very tired!
- Windbreaker – use caution with this one, as you don’t want to take up too much space and/or impede the view and enjoyment of others.
5. Record the racing
When an incident or great overtaking move inevitably happens, hopefully you’ll be looking the right way. Either way, when you get back the changes are you’re going to want to see it again from a different angle. Thankfully, ITV1 repeates the BTCC in a highlights programme on the Tuesday after the racing but some of us aren’t that patient so it’s usually a good idea to set the recorder to catch the live action from ITV4.
6. Take a timetable, spotters guide or buy a programme
If you’re new to the sport or just unfamiliar with the colour schemes it is advisable to have a spotter’s guide handy. Andy Blackmore produces a brilliant one which can be viewed here: http://www.spotterguides.com/btcc-2010-guide. The raceday programmes, usually £5, also contain spotter guides and a timetable – which is vital if you want to know when is a good time to go and grab some lunch!