Characteristics of the Sport

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 included 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” in the 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.
Currently 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 in order to improve the physical and mental endurance required when driving. Competing in triathlons and cycling/mountain biking are favourite activities among drivers.

Competition

In 2009, there are 15 races scheduled; spread between March 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. A consult with a Sports Dietitian is necessary for specific advice. Sports Dietitians Australia can provide details of qualified Sports Dietitians throughout Australia (www.sportsdietitians.com.au)

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

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 50^oC, 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, drivers should determine a plan based on their usual fluid losses. Drivers should begin drinking early in the race and drink small amounts frequently to ensure fluid intake matches sweat loss.  It helps to have pre-determined cues for drinking - a visual cue such as the finish line or specific point on the track or having 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 but should be trialed during less important races to ensure drivers are comfortable with the technique. 
• Drivers should drink sufficiently after the race to replace fluid losses, especially if they 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 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 Gastrolyte™ may be useful. These products should be used under the direction of a sports dietitian or qualified exercise professional.

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.  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 can be found in the eating before exercise fact sheet.

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 sections of our website. 

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.

Written by Nick Petranov with AIS Sports Nutrition, last updated April 2009. © Australian Sports Commission. www.ausport.gov.au/ais/nutrition. Acknowledgements: Cameron vandenDungen, Senior Sports Development Officer, CAMS, and David Driscoll, sports dietitian