Start today – it’s never too early to begin preparation for the race. When your testing begins, make sure you always have a specific endurance racing based objective. You’ll want to focus on consistent times you can run for 24 hours rather than flat-out flyer qualifying laps.
Think about adaptability, how you will adapt to changes during the race. For example, we had the Team 16 drivers practice lapping without using 3rd gear, while learning how to produce consistent lap times. (And guess what? – They did lose a gear during the race and they were all able to cope with it nicely.)
Night driving, rain and traffic can be challenging. Speed Secrets coaches will teach you how to develop a mental program to help you deal with these challenges. Build a mental program to cope with change, like rain that starts while you’re sleeping, or starting a stint with the wheel 15% off center. Practice doing things in the dark – it will help heighten your other senses.
Your conditioning has to be at its peak. Be prepared to drive a double-stint – things often won’t go exactly as planned. Your conditioning should favor endurance over strength, and don’t forget about the mental conditioning you’ll need.
Since many of you will not be running your own car or team, you’ll be joining a team that has its own set of dynamics. Learn to block out the negatives and focus on the positives. Prepare to be a leader and to set an example.
Don’t focus on desired results – focus on your performance, every corner, every lap, every stint. This includes practice and testing, too. Establish a pre-session ritual to launch your performance state of mind. Use this ritual every time you get in the car. We will teach you how to do this.
Plan to manage your distractions – set aside time for media, sponsor obligations, friends and family. Make sure they understand there will be times when you are unavailable to them.
Develop your race strategy well in advance. You have to be there at the end, able to turn the same consistent laps as at the start. Focus on being easy on the equipment, driving each lap of each stint perfectly. Be a team leader, encourage their perfection, use a good spotter to help avoid trouble.
Having a Speed Secrets coach will be your advantage. Your coach prepares you for each session, watches your sleep, food, schedule. He’ll be your personal assistant, spotter. He’ll make sure you’re mentally prepared to cope with change and unanticipated developments. You’ll be able to focus on your performance and reach your true potential over the space of 24 hours. Sure, you can do it on your own – you just won’t do it as well.
For more information of booking your coach for Daytona, call us at 1-866-773-7198