HEAT UP YOUR LIFE BY BECOMING A MARSHAL

At this time of the year, avid followers of ‘Formula 1’, start getting rather excited. Testing has started in Spain, the first Grand Prix of the season is only about a month away and thoughts turn to how best to get a slice of the fastest sport on earth.

Meanwhile, closer to home, a loyal and enthusiastic band of motor sport enthusiasts are looking forward to their first taste of action as they prepare for the season ahead at the Castle Combe circuit.Motor racing marshals may not spring to mind immediately when thinking of F1, but this little known yet very important group of people enjoy motor sport thrills and action without ever going near a Formula 1 race. Having said that, an experienced marshal has the opportunity to become involved not only at the British Grand Prix, but many other overseas races where British marshals are in demand.Richard Beard from Stockwood, the chief marshal at Castle Combe said, “Attending any Grand Prix these days involves substantial cost, even for an ordinary entrance ticket which gives you very limited viewing of the action. The cheapest ticket for the British Grand Prix is £135, which for many is way out of reach. In contrast, marshalling at Castle Combe costs nothing, you will see and experience far more real racing than you ever would at an F1 meeting and if you are good at what you do and show commitment, you could end up at a Grand Prix anyway – but on the other side of the fence!”The best way to find out about becoming a marshal is to attend the Castle Combe circuit’s annual ‘Marshals Training Day’, which this year is on March 13. Existing and budding new marshals learn or perfect skills such as firefighting, which can be useful in other situations totally unconnected with motor sport.Any fit and healthy person over 18 can take part, though there are opportunities for those as young as 14 to become involved in the Paddock and Assembly areas, where getting to know the drivers comes with the job – a far cry from Formula 1!The day starts with signing on at the Wiltshire College building next to the Camp/Westway car park between 07-30 and 08-15 am. No special equipment is needed, though Richard Beard says, “It’s best to be prepared for the worst possible weather!”A light lunch is provided and the event runs until 17-00.Further information can be obtained from Richard Beard via email on richardb@ccracingclub.co.uk or by phone on 07905 535539.

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