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YOUR PERSONAL GAME PLAN:
This section highlights practical tips and info that fans have contributed over the years that will make your experience at a short track event as fulfilling and comfortable as possible… if you have other suggestions, please Contact us...!
Prepare For The Cold:
Rink temperatures vary - for instance, the Utah Oval was quite comfortable for those wearing sweatshirts or light jackets, but people froze their fannys off in Cleveland, even with much heavier clothing. Dress in layers (many layers), and be prepared to shed or add clothing as needed. Clothing to consider bringing:
- Turtleneck
- Sweater, sweatshirt, light jacket
- Parka or ski jacket
- Warm socks, possibly more than one pair
- Closed shoes or boots, preferably with some 'traction' for icy areas (i.e., sidewalks and parking lots)
- Gloves or mittens
- Long pants - jeans, wool-blend, fleece or sweatpants
- Light 'skins' or long-johns for the coldest venues
- A lightweight hat, headband or beanie
Some of this might be considered 'overkill', but better prepared than freezing! After Day 1 you'll have a good feel about what you can leave home (or in your car or hotel room) for the rest of the meet.
Your Camera:
The best camera to bring is a digital SLR. If you have a 'point-and-shoot' it will be difficult to get a good action shot and you should aim mostly to get starting line, milling around, medal ceremony, heat box shots, etc. The skaters are just going too fast to expect much more than a blurred image!
There are some new rules regarding photography, and the rules vary with regard to whether it is an ISU event (international competition) or a USS event, and whether the event is being broadcast in any way. There is some confusion right now, but recent experience indicates that non-flash photography is okay (flash photography is NEVER allowed, so make sure you're well-versed in how to disable your flash). Video cameras are not permitted unless credentialed through the governing body, though there have been no objections (thus far) to the short clips that we take through our regular cameras.
Tickets:
VIP or 'upgraded' tickets are more expensive, to be sure, but most everyone swears that they're worth it. You'll generally get some decent food, some cool souvenirs, your programs and possibly a media guide, and greater options for seating choices. Seating usually isn't assigned - it's open seating within a specific section, whether that section is VIP, a special reserved Zone, or General Admission. However, if VIP tickets don't fit into your budget, be aware that 'there's really not a bad seat in the house'!
Some Other Suggestions:
Bring along a small ice scraper (most rental cars don't include them); a thermal coffee mug is nice - you'll definitely want to drink something hot! Also, a small sack or backpack to hold all the crap mentioned above, and to cart home all your 'loot' at the end of the day!
Fan Etiquette:
The skaters are incredibly sweet and obliging toward fans, but we do need to remember that they are 'on the job' at competitions. Be supportive but considerate as they prepare for their races, discreet when taking photos, and respectful about the importance of their 'down time' as well.
Some of the suggestions above and below (regarding bells, whistles and camera flashes) would also fall into this Fan Etiquette category!
Don't Bring:
Bells or whistles of any kind. The officials have whistles, and there is a bell to signal the final lap for the skaters, so expect to be reprimanded for any similar noisemakers!
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