Pro Driver John Morton's Tips to Becoming a Better Driver
John Morton needs no introduction. A Le Mans veteran who also used to race in the Can-Am series, he has driven some of the fastest cars the world has ever known. If you want to get to the next level he's here to help. Let's go!
August 31, 2017
What Makes a Great Racing Driver?
Racing is more popular than it ever has been. ESPN features Rally Cross in the X-Games and drifting has gone from an underground novelty to big business. Track days are beginning to introduce low cost racing for the local enthusiast, and karting races in Vegas feature some of the biggest names in the world. So what does it take to achieve success in this cut throat sport? John gives us five tips.
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Mental Strength
“The first and most important thing is mental strength,” Morton says, then adds, “You have to have the dedication that you’re going to do it no matter what. The resolve that you will succeed at it is number 1.” This is very true as it is not an easy sport to turn from hobby to business. If you’re going to become a racer you have to have the belief that you will become a racer, no matter what!
>>Join the conversation on Tips from Pro Driver John Morton right here in the S2Ki Forum!
Positioning Yourself
“This isn’t about driving. Being able to put yourself in a position with sponsors or potential sponsors to get in a car with the potential to win races. This might be the hardest thing of all,” he remarked. “It comes down to personality.” You have to know how to talk to people, identify what value you bring to the table, and sell them on your abilities. Then you have to have the skill to back it up!
>>Join the conversation on Tips from Pro Driver John Morton right here in the S2Ki Forum!
Physical Fitness
Many people think the car does all the work in motorsports, but spend an hour on the track in the heat of summer and you will know how physically demanding it is. Even if you are just competing in four lap sprint races, a driver in better shape is going to be quicker and faster on the last lap then one who is starting to fade. Besides stamina, a strong core is important to hold your body in place as you enter a corner, accelerate, or decelerate.
>>Join the conversation on Tips from Pro Driver John Morton right here in the S2Ki Forum!
Hard work pays off
The greatest insight in John's advice, is that you have control over yourself within the sport. Through hard work, grit, and determination you can go farther than you might think. I'll be writing an article in the future about how to position yourself and, perhaps most importantly, how to create your own luck in the world of driving. I hope you all enjoyed this article. Let me know what you guys would like me to ask pro drivers in the future. Thanks for reading.
>>Join the conversation on Tips from Pro Driver John Morton right here in the S2Ki Forum!
