Good work there Harrie
a couple of things to add to etiquette: (and am sorry but they are a bit negative, but it does happen & folks have been a bit put out - sponsors, visitors & racers alike)
- Please dont get the hump if racers seem unwilling to chat - they might just be having 2 mins to themselves to collect their brains together, just before going out to race. (or dashing off for another pee!)
- Its lovely having folks along, but if someone is having a problem or sorting a problem they might need a bit of space to do this. Whilst its great to look down the barrells or get in close to a broken bike, you might be in the way - so do ask first. (nobody likes to appear rude & tell people to clear off, but it can really slow mechanics/racers down in the paddock when up against it, if bods are under their feet).
- Even the best mechanics might forget something in the 'thick of it' - even simple things like refuelling their bike if distracted, so do wait till they are finished with the task they are involved with, if possible.
- Best time to say 'hi' & stop for a proper natter (we find) is about an hour or more before a race, at the start of lunch break or soon after the first race, tho please dont dump your bike gear/lunch/auntie Flo or the baby twin kittens in the buggy, in the gazebo/van/around the racebike or sit in chairs without asking first.
- The gazebo/garage is there for the racebike & racer, not for 21 mates & relatives to shelter in, when its wet, so do take your brolly too - and ask if its ok to come in, first.
The above might be quite contentious points for some people, but we have found on occasions that all the above have been a bit of nightmare on (very) rare occasions.
To sum up - its blinking GREAT to have supporters (we love having you along) - just do remember the riders/mechanics are also there to race