THE PIT STOP CHALLENGE
A TEAM EXERCISE AT THE START OF YOUR CHALLENGE JOURNEY
INDUSTRY RELEVANT SKILLS
The Pit Stop Challenge is one of our dynamic, hands-on training activities, designed to immerse our Student Motorsport Challenge teams into the fast-paced world of motorsport.
Since its introduction in 2021, it has grown in popularity as a unique experience for students to hone critical skills under real-world pressures, including teamwork, problem-solving, and quick decision-making.
Taking place during our training days, the Pit Stop Challenge prepares teams for the realities of trackside operations and is the perfect start to their journey in the Student Motorsport Challenge.
Participation immerses students in the pressure, precision, and teamwork required on race day. It’s not just about speed but also learning, upskilling, and developing critical thinking under pressure – invaluable skills that lay the groundwork for success both on and off the track.
PIT STOP SCENARIO
Picture this: during a race event, your race car dives into the pits during an unscheduled stop, having locked the brakes and damaged the tyres on a wet track.
Water and debris cover the windscreen, the air intake filter is clogged, and the driver’s view is obstructed.
In teams of 4-6, you have to tackle multiple tasks—changing wheels, adjusting tyre pressures and suspension, cleaning the car, and switching drivers—all under the pressure of a countdown.
Can you get the car ready to suit the emerging wet conditions on track?
OUR GUIDANCE
Before diving into the Pit Stop Challenge, each team receives a comprehensive safety briefing and demonstration of tasks. Each task is explained thoroughly, and all necessary tools are provided to ensure your team is equipped to succeed!
From safely placing wheels and handling tools to securing parts and adjusting suspension, our instructors cover every detail so you can tackle the task with confidence.
With steps such as accurately adjusting tyre pressures, making performance changes, and ensuring proper bolt tension, the Pit Stop Challenge is an opportunity to learn precise techniques and develop a safety-first mindset.
Every team member has a critical role to play, from handling mechanics to adjusting suspension settings for the driver, to working as a unit for seamless execution.
GEAR-UP FOR PERFORMANCE
Each team receives an array of essential tools and protective equipment to get the job done – from vehicle jacks, and wheel guns, to mechanic overalls and gloves we’ve got you covered.
With access to the right tools and our guidance, you’ll have everything you need to take on the pit stop challenge confidently.
PLANNING FOR SUCCESS
Post briefing and before diving into action, team members are given 10 minutes to strategise. They have ten minutes to gather, assign roles, and discuss strategies for the pit stop. This initial planning time is invaluable for building team coordination and ensuring everyone understands their responsibilities.
Strategic planning is key to a successful pit stop, and this experience teaches you how to make quick yet effective decisions in a high-stakes environment – a critical skill for any motorsport professional.
PRESISION COUNTS
Each pit stop involves specific tasks that simulate real-life racing needs, from adjusting tire pressures and cleaning debris from the windscreen to swapping out air filters and making suspension adjustments.
Every action demands accuracy and timing and while speed is crucial, safety and accuracy come first.
Teams are fairly timed and observed closely, and any missed steps, inaccuracies, or unsafe practices incur time penalties.
This challenge is about finding the balance between efficiency and safety, just as in a real pit crew scenario.
RECONGNISING EXCELLENCE
Experienced judges will be observing throughout, scoring teams based on precision, teamwork, and timing.
At the end of each training day, all teams receive their completion times, along with a photo to commemorate their hard work.
Winning teams receive exclusive prizes from our sponsor, Nankang Tyres, and all teams go on to compete in the Grand Final.
REFLECTION
After completing the pit stop, each team takes time to reflect on their performance.
Motorsport is as much about constant improvement as it is about speed, and this reflection phase encourages students to think about what worked, what could be improved, and how to optimise their teamwork and strategy.
It’s a practical way to develop a growth mindset, mirroring the continuous improvement ethos that drives success in the motorsport industry.
GRAND FINAL
All of our participants from training days are able to face off at our end-of-season Grand Finale, held at a prestigious UK racing circuit such as Brands Hatch of Silverstone.
This Grand Final is an immersive, live-streamed event complete with professional commentary by our Student Motorsport Media Team and media partners.
The top three teams are honored with exclusive prizes, recognition, and all teams enjoy the thrill of competing at a professional motorsport venue.
