Regarding seeing flags, some things I do, and suggest/require the same with students:
- Make a point to look at every flag station on every lap, no exceptions.
- Look directly at the flag station, don't just try to catch it in peripheral vision. That generally means choosing a specific point on the track to look at the flag station, with earlier usually being better.
- Wave to flaggers whenever they display a flag, regardless of which flag it is.
- At the end of each session, wave to all flaggers after the checker (to let them know the checker was seen, and to say thank you).
I also emphasize to students that flaggers are there to help and are part of the team, not simply there to catch you doing wrong things; they can prevent wrecks and possibly even save your life.
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