For my cultural anthropology class my teacher assigned me to write an ethnography on an American sub culture. Which basically means I need to study a group of people. I couldnt think of a better group of people than racers. SInce I've been racing for only a couple of years now I would appreciate some input from some of you with much more experince in the culture that is racers.
Some of the questions that need to be answered:
What regalia or costumes or clothing do they wear and how does it
compare or contrast with the general population?
Race suits of varying styles, colors and expense.
Helmets.
Funny hats.
I hear some people wear red under garments under their race suits - b/c red is faster
What makes the group understudy unique--in other words what
makes them a group, a clan, a family.
The mutual desire for the drug called racing. Adrenaline. The thrill of victory. The desire for a chance at victory and the progression and learning to achieve it.
Describe the food and drink involved with the group. How does it
reflect or relate to the make-up of the group--what role does food and drink
play? Are there “food rituals’?
Casa Ramos at Willows, CA
Communal beers after the race day. It's like communion wine or something.
Did you note any mating rituals or courtship within the group? How
so? What are the rituals or acts that you would associate with
mating/dating/courtship/hooking up in the group?
Besides the aforementioned bump drafting w/ cars bumping uglies, I haven't noticed anyone trying to bump w/o body parts. Minor exception for those that bring women to the event or female drivers. Chicks in race suits are hot.
What can you see and say about status and role? Are there leaders,
followers, status, egalitarianism, --gender within this topic? How did/do the
“leaders†gain or come to power? What
are the manifestations of status and role?
Only leaders I can think of are the Race Directors, flaggers etc. Beyond that, it's a cock fight waiting to happen. Everyone is friendly in the pits and willing to help each other on track and off but we all want to win.
Give examples of non-verbal communication that you may have noted in the
group.
1 fingered salutes and open hand waves
The occasional grunting and grumbling
That is just some of the things to respond to but anything will help. Any sort of ritual that we do or how we interact. Love to hear some great input!
Thanks- Joey
Biggest ritual is as a driver enters the car before a session. Process of getting in, tightening belts, turning on stuff, thinking about the race or session. Concentration. Thought. Strategy. Where's my pass going to be? Who's around me? What are their weaknesses? Which turn can I challenge them?
Once you get in the car, it's the most peaceful yet intense mental and physical experience. Total concentration. Nothing but the moment in your surroundings. Almost like sex but less moaning and screaming. Attack the track. Attack your competitors. Try and improve your position and get closer to the win. Size up your opponent. Find a weakness. Make a pass. Yes. The thrill. The adrenaline. More. onto the next victim. It ends too soon.