Hi Steve,
good luck on your return and welcome back to RC racing
I think I spoke to you on Fri night (promoted Mardave class). Regarding batteries, i'd suggest obtaining some lipo's and an integrated balance charger. It will be money well spent as nearly all at Glos are using Lipo's now. I can provide one on loan (with deans connector) to see the difference. Let us know if you require anything to get you going before friday. I am sure many peeps on here have spares to help you get started
Hopefully see you on Friday
Si