16-12-2019, 10:00 PM
As that 'fearless navigator who knows his stuff', I would say the most important factor is, indeed, the navigation. It doesn't matter how fast the driver is, or how well you as a team keep to time, if you're driving on the wrong road you're not going to do very well! So make sure the navigator is familiar with the methods of route instruction and is comfortable reading a map whilst being bounced around in the cockpit (it's no good if you are stopping every five minutes because the navigator is feeling ill), make sure the instructions to the driver are simple ('cos he's simple!) and concise, and don't panic if (and when) things go wrong.
If the navigator can keep a steady stream of comments describing the route (corners, gradients, bridges, not just the junctions) then an accurate odometer is of no real concern; timing will sort itself out as you get more confident and experienced. True, to do really well you will need all aspects slotting in to place, but as a novice just concentrate on finding, and keeping to, the correct route.
An A4-sized board to support the map is useful, but make sure it's not too rigid; thick cardboard is better than hardboard, and avoid metal as it will hurt if things go wrong! I used to use an old aircraft dash-lamp clipped to the board for illumination, but a lamp strapped to the head sounds a good idea as long as you don't keep turning towards the driver and dazzling him! Even better, if you can find one and can get used to using it, is a potie - an illuminated magnifying glass in a shrouded holder https://www.nickygrist.com/don-barrow-po...o2EALw_wcB but you will need to provide a power supply either from the car or perhaps a pocket battery.
But for a first attempt, keep it simple, and don't spend a fortune on equipment only to find you didn't enjoy the experience!
If the navigator can keep a steady stream of comments describing the route (corners, gradients, bridges, not just the junctions) then an accurate odometer is of no real concern; timing will sort itself out as you get more confident and experienced. True, to do really well you will need all aspects slotting in to place, but as a novice just concentrate on finding, and keeping to, the correct route.
An A4-sized board to support the map is useful, but make sure it's not too rigid; thick cardboard is better than hardboard, and avoid metal as it will hurt if things go wrong! I used to use an old aircraft dash-lamp clipped to the board for illumination, but a lamp strapped to the head sounds a good idea as long as you don't keep turning towards the driver and dazzling him! Even better, if you can find one and can get used to using it, is a potie - an illuminated magnifying glass in a shrouded holder https://www.nickygrist.com/don-barrow-po...o2EALw_wcB but you will need to provide a power supply either from the car or perhaps a pocket battery.
But for a first attempt, keep it simple, and don't spend a fortune on equipment only to find you didn't enjoy the experience!