Targa Newfoundland training

[Zedyone_kenobi]

So this weekend I went to Toronto with my good friend Kirk, and we took the Targa Newfoundland qualifying class. I was learning the roll as navigator, and Kirk was driving the 300C rental car around the Driver development track at Mosport. It was a wonderful weekend and unbelievably tiring. I will get some pictures up of where we stayed , etc. But I have to say that navigating is a large challenge for me. So much to keep track of, and I will need some practice to get the hang of the pace of calling out notes.

We are entering his 944 turbo in the 2011 Targa Newfoundland. My Z is slated to go 2-3 years later, as I still getting her ready. While we plan to run the Porsche in the Targa class, my Z is going to be limited to the Grand Touring, which does not require a roll cage or any major car modifications.

Anybody have any advice on good books on navigating and tips or tricks to learning that skill.

[DougN]

That sounds like a lot of fun Stephen! Everytime I see that event on TV, I always think how much I would like to do that Looking forward to hearing more about your experiences!

[ajmcforester]

Keep up on the details it will be a blast.

[240dkw]

Don't do this.

[NWT240zed]

If you have the inclination, check out a documentary called "Love the Beast". It's about Eric Bana's connection to (non-gear heads might call it an obsession with) his Ford Falcon. Bana along with his buddy as navigator participate in the Targa Tasmania. It might not be terribly instructive, but I guarantee that it will be relatable. There's also a nice appearance by Jeremy Clarkson of Top Gear.

Best of luck in the Targa race. I am sure it will be a blast.

[gnosez]

Either a local SCCA or car club should be able to assist you in learning more about being a second seater.

Helmet to helmet communications are a MUST.

Being very secure in your seat is a plus.

Learn to give simple and decisive commands with no hesitation.

If you can't read in a moving vehicle without getting sick, find someone else.

You both need to run any type of rallye you can find in your area and get use to each other.

I wish you luck.

If all else fails, buy me a plane ticket and I'll come out to train you.

[ajmcforester]

A good navigator is more important than the driver. You read the wrong turn you might be in air upside down, I've been their as the driver. The two of you need to get to know each other it's like ballroom dancing, one gives direction and the other follows with the data given. Don't go cheap on communication data!

[ggarrard]

The Rally Sport Ontario website provides links to several rally navigation tutorials at http://www.rallysport.on.ca/index.php?fuseaction=site.details&id=65 and although most are here in Ontario, you might be able to find similar information on a more local club's website.. Good luck...

[ajmcforester]

You should enter some TSD events they will help your skill with little to no risk. They can also be a bunch fun and you can use just about anything

[Bruce Palmer]

Thanks for the thread. Reminds me we have a set of carbs to build for next year's event. Promised them out in December. That way we wont get in the way of the competitor's precrastination.........