Characteristics of the Sport

Overview

While some people may view a bunch of (most often) men driving around a track as a bit of fun, V8 Supercar racing has moved well beyond being a recreational pursuit. It is now a multi-million dollar series demanding a level of physical and mental fitness similar to that of many Olympic athletes. This perpetually evolving sport continually pushes the limits of technology and engineering. It is also becoming increasingly demanding on the drivers. Thus, many teams are now dedicating increased resources not only to look at what is fuelling the car, but also to what is fuelling the driver!

 

Grade of Racers

The V8 Supercar Championship series is held throughout Australia and includes races in New Zealand and Bahrain in 2008. Within the V8 Supercar Championship Series the majority of drivers are professional, whilst there are fewer professionals and more “privateers’ qualifying series. The Confederation of Australian Motorsports (CAMS) also runs a Driver Development Program (DDP) for some drivers who may race V8 Supercars as well as other disciplines.

At the time of writing, the Championship series is the only truly professional category of circuit motor racing within Australia. An increasing number of teams are consulting with dietitians, not just for the drivers but for pit crew members, mechanics and other team members. The drivers have significant responsibilities, not only to their racing but to the plethora of sponsors and media that are essential to every driver's career. This can take up a significant part of each week during the season as well as on race weekends and is a major consideration when designing any nutrition and hydration plan.

 

Training

Since each practice/test session on the track is very expensive (and limited by regulations - eight days in 2003, six days in 2004), the majority of training for drivers takes place in the gym, and consists of various forms of cross training. Competing in triathlons and cycling/mountain biking are favourite activities among drivers. While the driver of yesterday would have scoffed at the idea of going to the gym to improve one's driving performance, you would be hard pressed to find a single driver who doesn't make some effort in the physical fitness department, to give them an edge!

 

Competition

In 2008, there 15 races scheduled; spread between the end of February and the first weekend in December. The majority of races in V8 Supercars follow an endurance format of between 300 kilometres (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes) and 500 kilometres (2 races of 250 kilometres over 2 days, roughly 2 hours each). There are still some sprint races that follow a 3-race format over 2 days. These races are 150 kilometres each (or 50 minutes) of continuous competition. Race formats and dates tend to change year to year, so strategies must change accordingly. For details refer to: www.v8supercar.com.au

 

Physical Characteristics

Since the sport is largely skill-based, it is logical that it does not select for a particular body type. Athlete ages also range widely.

Common Nutrition Issues

Eating to Fuel a Fitness Program

The majority of drivers in the Championship Series have a fitness program. This has filtered down through the ranks to the development categories where drivers as young as 16 are being introduced to the benefits of physical fitness and a proper diet.

A good training diet should supply adequate carbohydrate to match energy needs, moderate amounts of protein and fat, as well as supplying enough vitamins, minerals and fibre. Specific needs depend on the amount and type of training undertaken. For general information, see our A Winning Diet booklet in the Publications section of our website. A consult with a Sports Dietitian is necessary for specific advice. Sports Dietitians Australia can provide details of qualified Sports Dietitians throughout Australia.

 

Mental vs Muscular Fatigue

Physical or muscular fatigue is less of a performance factor in V8 Supercars than mental fatigue. The ability to concentrate for long periods of time can determine the outcome of the race. To prevent mental fatigue, athletes need to minimise the effects of dehydration and ensure carbohydrate stores are well maintained during race conditions.

 

Minimising the Negative Effects of Dehydration - Having a Hydration Plan

Dehydration of 1.5-2% (1.1-1.5 kg for a 75 kg driver) can significantly affect both physical and mental performance. Hot cabin conditions are exacerbated by the triple layered fire-proof suit, fireproof underwear, gloves, socks, helmet and boots that drivers must wear. In long races, fluid losses are likely to be very high. Studies of relatively short races with Supercar drivers in hot conditions show cabin temperatures above 500C, with average sweat losses resulting in a 3% loss of bodyweight. To offset large losses of fluid that are likely to occur in the race, drivers need to have a plan for hydration. This may involve:

• Drinking sufficiently in the days leading up to the race to maintain hydration. Aim to drink with all meals and snacks throughout the day. In hotter conditions, additional drinks between meals may be required.

• Drink 400-600 ml of fluid 2-3 hours before the race, providing adequate time to urinate any excess. Ideally, choose a fluid that contains sodium (e.g. sports drink) or consume this drink with some food.

• Drink 200-300 ml of fluid immediately before the race. Sports drink is the best option.

• Use a fluid delivery system to drink regularly throughout the race. Ideally, you should determine a plan based on your usual fluid losses. Fluid losses can be determined by weighing yourself before and after racing. Each kilogram of weight loss indicates 1 litre of fluid loss. Begin drinking early in the race and drink small amounts, frequently to ensure your fluid intake matches your fluid loss. It helps to have pre-determined cues for drinking - a visual cue such as the finish line or specific point on the track. Alternatively, nominate a member of the crew to give regular reminders via the radio system. Fluid delivery systems (e.g. Camel Pack or specialized in-car drinking systems) are essential for easy-drinking during race conditions. Trial your system during less important races until you are comfortable with the technique. 

• Drink sufficiently after the race to replace fluid losses, especially if you have another race that day or the day after. Using pre- and post-race body weights can provide an indication of the amount to drink. Generally drivers will need to drink 150% of any post-race fluid deficit.

Commitments with the media, sponsors, race engineers and AVESCO mean that race day can be very hectic, thus a well constructed plan should be prepared ahead of time. As with the car, drivers should have a standard plan that they execute, counting backwards from the time the race starts, in order to be best prepared for the challenges that lie ahead over the day/race meet. This routine should be practiced in training or at less important events and in different environments (cool, moderate, hot) to be fine-tuned for important events

One important consideration with regards to hydration, is urine output. Sodium can help to improve fluid absorption and retention and help decrease urine output. Sodium can be obtained from food or fluids such as sports drinks. The sodium in sports drinks also helps to improve palatability and improve the thirst response therefore stimulating increased fluid intake. In most cases, sports drinks will be sufficient during racing conditions. When dehydration is significant, additional sodium from sources such as Gatorlytes or Gastrolytes may be useful. These products should be used under the direction of a sports dietitian or qualified exercise professional.

The need to stay cool is becoming increasingly important as cars run faster and hotter and a variety of implements such as cool suits or portable air-conditioning units are becoming more popular with teams.

 

What should I eat before and during competition?

Typically, high-fat takeaway food is available at the circuit (e.g. deep-fried food, hamburgers, hotdogs, pies, etc).  These options are not ideal for optimal competition.  Until circuit catering is improved, drivers are encouraged to plan their day’s intake and cater for themselves.  Generally, a meal that is carbohydrate-based, moderate in protein and provides a range of other nutrients is recommended 3-4 hours before racing.  This can be followed up with a lighter snack 1-2 hours before racing.  There is a huge range of suitable options.  Drivers should make their choices based on individual preference and gastrointestinal comfort.  Consuming excessive quantities or large amounts of fat or fibre may cause stomach discomfort in some drivers.  Drivers who suffer from nerves or poor appetite prior to racing may find liquid meals or a series of smaller snacks more suitable than a substantial meal.  Drivers often have breaks (a couple of hours) between sessions.  This provides the opportunity to refuel and rehydrate. Meal and snack suggestions include:

Breakfast:

• Cereal, toast and juice
• Baked beans on toast and juice
• Fruit salad and yoghurt
• Poached or scrambled eggs on toast plus fruit
• Crumpets and a banana smoothie
• Pancakes with fruit and yoghurt

Lunch:

• Sandwiches and juice
• Pasta with a low-fat sauce and fruit
• Home made pizza with low fat toppings
• Rice or noodle dishes
• Home made burgers

For those who can't eat a full or solid meal pre-race:

• Smoothie with your favourite fruit (e.g. banana, strawberry or blueberry), low fat yoghurt, milk and honey
• Liquid meal drink (e.g. PowerBar
• Protein Plus, Sustagen Sport) and a banana
• Juice and a couple of cereal bars
• Sports bar (e.g. PowerBar Performance Bar) and sports drink

Snacks:

• Sports drink
• Juice
• Fruit
• Sandwiches
• Yoghurt
• Cereal bars
• Packet soup + bread
• Hot chocolate and marshmallows in cold environments

 

Travel and Competing in Different Environments

The V8 Supercar Championship Series now takes place in all states and one territory of Australia, New Zealand and Bahrain.

Most drivers are likely to buy food before and after they arrive at the track, however increasing numbers have team caterers who prepare their food during the day. Many teams also cater for guests and sponsors. Careful planning and recipe selection is needed to ensure that drivers receive appropriate meals and the people 'putting on the show' are well looked after too! Tips on preparing for travel and catering for groups can be found in the Travel Factsheet section of our website. Examples of suitable meals can be found in the Recipes section.

 

Caffeine

Some drivers consume caffeine in the form of cola drinks, tea, coffee or energy drinks to help prevent fatigue, especially when they feel their "energy levels are low". Caffeine can have beneficial effects for some individuals, when used appropriately. However, poor use of caffeine can have adverse side effects. Athletes interested in using caffeine are encouraged to read our Caffeine Fact Sheet in the Supplement section of our website and make an informed decision about caffeine use. Caffeine is now a permitted substance in most sports however athletes should always check with their sports governing body or the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) to check the current status on caffeine.

Case Study

On a training camp at the AIS some young drivers from the Confederation of Australia Motor Sports revealed they relied heavily on fast food when eating away from home.  Their Sports Dietitian decided to do a practical session with the group to assess the menus of fast foods outlets.

It was pointed out that while many fast food options are laden with fat and low on nutrients, it is possible to make some appropriate choices.  The drivers were provided with the following tips:

• Look for a main meal option that is relatively low in fat, moderate in protein and provides carbohydrate from sources that are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals (e.g. bread, vegetables, salad or fruit).
• Avoid meal deals and size upgrades.
• Improve the quality of your meal by adding salad, fruit, yoghurt, low fat milk, extra high fibre bread etc.
• Remember to include fluid with your meal.  Water and juice are preferable to soft drink.

The group completed the session with a cooking lesson to demonstrate how easy it could be to prepare meals away from home. The drivers were surprised that it was possible to prepare a meal in about 15 minutes – less time than it would take to drive to a restaurant and order.  The drivers discussed time-saving ways to reduce the preparation time involved in cooking.  Some of these included:

• Plan the meal before leaving home.  Take as many ingredients from home and purchase fresh ingredients at the destination.
• Make use of time-saving products such as pasta sauce, frozen or canned vegetables, pizza bases, salad mixes etc.
• Look for recipes that can be cooked in one pot – pasta sauce, stirfries, curries etc.  
• Share the workload among a group.
• Prepare recipes that you are familiar with and are able to adapt if products or cooking equipment is unavailable.

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Written by Nick Petronov and the Department of Sports Nutrition, AIS © Australian Sports Commission 2004

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