After residing in Daytona for seven years, attending the Rolex 24 yearly since, and sleeping there three separate instances–one time on function and two others as a result of I used to be too excited to go away–I’ve realized some issues. Listed below are 5 errors that the majority first-time Rolex 24 campers make.
1. Tenting within the Fallacious Location
Whenever you safe your spot on the Rolex 24, understand that campsites are first come, first served. So identical to Black Friday within the early 2000s, you may wish to get there early to select one of the best location.
When selecting your campsite, there are some things to think about: the bogs, the observe and the trams. Many first-time campers assume one of the best spot is near the bogs or the observe to have round the clock protection, however listed here are some issues to consider.
It’s 4 a.m., and each campsite in a 200-foot neighborhood has been partying since 10 a.m. the day prior to this. Hastily, the Busch Gentle, Fireball and Smirnoff lastly meet up with them. Now you’ve acquired folks stumbling to the lavatory in any respect hours round you and even by way of your campsite.
Add the sounds of the engines roaring by at over 100 mph to the combo, and sleep shall be nonexistent.
The following morning, you resolve to return to the infield solely to understand the tram pickup location is midway throughout the Speedway. After an evening with no sleep, that stroll shouldn’t be very pleasant, belief me. Identical goes for the top of a protracted day: You don’t wish to stroll throughout Timbuktu simply to get to your campsite.
As an alternative, discover a spot that’s properly within the center–far sufficient from the bogs that it’s a little bit of a stroll however you gained’t have to fret about shock company, and much sufficient from the sting of the observe that the vehicles sound extra like a delicate droning. Additionally purpose to be shut sufficient to the trams that your ft gained’t hate you on the finish of the day.
2. Trusting Climate Apps
Florida natives know that the climate can change with out warning, and the Rolex 24 weekend is not any exception. With this in thoughts, pack garments for a number of sorts of climate , even when it’s only for 2 days.
The forecast calling for 70° and sunny? Pack a hoodie, sweatpants and a rain jacket simply in case. Oh, and additional socks–moist socks are nobody’s mates.
I’ve seen folks shivering or baking within the Florida solar too many instances as a result of their climate app didn’t warn them in regards to the 180° climate shift.
Additionally do not forget that Florida nights, particularly in January, can change into insufferable as low temperatures pair with excessive wind and typically rain. It’s higher to have additional blankets readily available than flip right into a race fan popsicle in your tent.
3. Relying on Race Monitor Meals
Whereas grabbing a chew at a meals truck or the meals stands could seem handy, each different race fan in attendance will most likely be considering the identical factor.
Nobody desires to stroll and take a tram simply to attend in a 40-person queue and pay $15 for a hamburger.
Save your self the wait by bringing a cooler with varied snacks and sandwich substances. Higher but, in case you’re in a position, convey a small grill too and make that hamburger from the consolation of your campsite.
In any case, late-night snacks paired with a late-night race simply hits the spot.
With that being mentioned, don’t wait to purchase ice till race day. Some 90% of shops and gasoline stations across the Rolex shall be offered out. For those who can, seize and retailer ice as early as potential. Ice packs are additionally a great different.
4. Overpacking
For some campsites, infield parking is on the market, making setup and takedown simple. Nonetheless, if you’re not capable of convey your automobile, lugging all of your gear shouldn’t be ideally suited.
Whereas packing, ask your self this one query: What number of instances will I truly use this throughout the race?
If the reply isn’t greater than a couple of times, likelihood is you don’t really want it.
On prime of that, go away valuables the place they belong–at house.
You gained’t be at your campsite each second of the race. So, if there’s something that you just wouldn’t wish to go away unattended or stroll round with, don’t convey it.
5. Not Being Conscious of Others
When tenting on the Rolex 24, you need to bear in mind this one crucial factor: You aren’t the one individual there.
Now, I don’t imply don’t have enjoyable, however blasting music at 4 within the morning or yelling on the prime of your lungs? That’s the quickest approach to have your fellow campers calling safety to come back speak to you.
Tenting on the Rolex 24 is an effective way to satisfy new folks, share cool tales and bond with folks over your love of motorsports. So, ensure to be form, respectful and, after all, have enjoyable.
