Hi Andy
What is it like being head of the timing at santa pod?
The head of the timing crew is actually Steve Horn, who has been involved in the sport for over 25
years (he wont thank me for saying that !). In addition to Steve and I the crew consists of
Martin Wallis, John Hackney, Sharron Norris and David Anniwell. We also have Lisa Smart who has taken time out to have
(another) baby and spend time with her family. Lisa used to operate the race computer, a job now done by Sharon, whilst Martin,
John and I look after the track and PA system. David looks after the qualifying lists and ladders and ensures the Race Secretary
and pit marshals have all the information they need.
How did you get in to drag racing?
I used to work with Steve a few years ago and he invited me to the track at the 1996 Main Event,
after only a few hours I was hooked ! During the weekend Steve asked if I would like to join the timing crew, an offer
I very gladly accepted. The rest is history !
How hard is it to do the timing system?
Operating the race computer requires a high level of concentration, vehicles have to be entered into
the right class ensuring the race numbers are correct, checking pairings, dial-ins, etc. The track itself is relatively simple
to set up, and it's not often anything goes wrong despite there being a lot of equipment and wiring. We hold a lot of spares
so even if something does go wrong we can change parts very quickly and continue racing.
Is it a fun job?
Despite the stress, hard work and long hours, it is a lot of fun.
Who is you favourite TF driver?
I don't think it would be fair of me to pick out one particular driver, though I obviously have a
bias for British drivers !
After a event how many hours are you threre for?
A normal working day starts around an hour and a half before actual racing starts and usually ends
around an hour after racing finishes, though this varies according to the day of the event. For example, at the end of the
last day of qualifying all the final qualifying lists and ladders have to be printed and distributed, which can take up to
an hour.
A lot of hours are put in before meetings too. Steve and Martin are always there a few days beforehand
checking wiring, installing any new equipment, making repairs, etc. Steve also has to make sure all the riders and drivers
are entered into the race computer. I make sure we have all the neccessary spreadsheets available (running logs, etc) and
provide statistical information for the commentators and media.
Following the event Steve and Martin deal with any repairs as neccessary, and I extract the timing
data and statistical information for the media.
Where it TSI timers come from?
TSI Timers was founded by Tom Haggin in the USA, who designed the system.
Thanks
Nice Talking
