Just a couple of things to add...
What's wrong with attracting the over 40s? They are usually monied, have some appreciation of focusing on a hobby and are seen in their hundreds at things like the Autosport. We always talk about having to attract youngsters, but why is that? Why can't we attract people in their later years too? I am guessing the James' reference to a couple of motorbike enthusiasts joining RHR means they are not youngsters or in their early teens.
The point about speeds is very well made. Gone are the days of BR motors putting out 80 watts, now any BL motor in our classes puts out 150W with a small amount of timing. People are racing TC 2S/13.5/boosted cars with more than that, and Off-Road 7.5 cars. They are frankly uncontrollable for the average club racer without making spares sales soar!
Our fixation with single classes in this country has always seemed strange to me. In the US they run many classes even on a club night. I went to Ranch Pit Shop one club evening. They raced eight classes of Off-Road on the one night and had over 120 people there - on a club night! Many clubs run two or three classes on a night.
Why would we not think about attracting more people by slowing it all down and offering multiple classes at Clubs to help new drivers learn their art and compete with what they have bought? Just a thought...
|