Slipstream - September 2001

Help Me Get Better...So I can Beat You! AX #4
by Rocky Johnson
Imagine the coach of the Dallas Cowboys asking the coach of
Washington for a few pointers on how to beat the Redskins, or
Mike Modano, of the Stars asking the opposing teams goalie for
tips on how to score on him. Fat chance! However, in the wonderful
world of Maverick PCA, that sort of thing happens on a
regular basis -- it's called the Developing Driver Class.
The idea is simple...in A/X schools, DE's, and at actual
events, experienced drivers help the novices improve so that
someday they might (I emphasize might) have a shot at beating
their instructor in an actual A/X, time trial, etc. Although the
concept is simple, the execution is complex, fun, sometimes confusing,
and always helpful. As you might imagine, some instructors
are more effective teaching behind the wheel, some in the
passenger seat, and others simply explaining the theory of how to
go faster. At times, the input even appears contradictory.
However, every time you come away with something that helps
you be a better driver.
Since I personally started at ground zero, any pointers I could
pick up were a definite plus. From my first A/X school with Mike
Lockas, to the recent A/X and time trials with Graham Lane, it's
been a constant learning experience. In between, I've had great
help from Chris Amond, Charlie Davis, Bob Glowacki, Keith
Olcha, and Brian Scudder. I'm sure there are others I've neglected
to mention, but thanks to all of you! The results have been
gratifying. Of the timed events I've entered this year, I've been
fortunate enough to have the lowest Developing Driver time in
three of the four events, and I would have at least have been competitive
in my class(S7).
If anyone out there has been holding back entering these
events because they are inexperienced, worried about looking
foolish, or asking "dumb" questions, let me encourage you to wait
no longer. You could not possibly be any more of a beginner that
I was. Everyone who has helped me has shown great patience,
knowledge, and courage (after all, they can't push the brake
pedal). With luck, someday I hope to be as much help to others
as they have been to me.
Now, let me now tell you a little about my adventure at the
Autocross #4 at Mineral Ring. The course was designed by Shawn
Collenburg and to say it was a challenge is a significant understatement!
I have no idea what the record is for DNF's on a
course, but my guess is this one has to be near the top. Speaking
from personal experience (two DNF's), corner #2 seemed to be
especially mystifying. My only consolation is that several of the
old pros (you know who you are) seemed to be having just as
much trouble as I was. I guess this falls into the "misery loves
company" category.
If the weather was blistering, and it surely was, the competition
was just as heated. Cody Sears set the pace, followed closely
by Keith Olcha. As expected, Shawn Collenburg did well on his
own course, with the third best time. Kevin Hardison kept the
contest for top time of the day in doubt right up until his last run.
In spite of the hot competition, there was the usual spirit of
cooperation that you expect at any Maverick event. Everyone was
reminding everyone else to use lots of sunscreen and to stay
"hydrated". (For the old-timers, that means drinking lots of
water). A special thank you goes out to the Dugans for the wonderful,
ice cold watermelon they provided at the end of the event!
Rocky Johnson
Eric Erz
Cody Sears
Shawn Collenburg
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