| WEB
SITE TIPS FOR TRACKS AND CLUBS
The difference between
an average web site and an effective web site is what you decide to put
on it. Though high-tech graphics and fancy designs are nice, most people
come to a web site primarily to get information. Take advantage of this
by providing everything there is to know about your track and about your
events. Here is a list of ideas found at successful track and club web
sites:
THE BASICS
Show the track logo,
address and telephone/fax numbers on the home page – the first page that
appears on the screen. Offer options to e-mail the track (or club) in one
click as well as providing a mailing list sign-up.
DIRECTIONS TO THE TRACK
Give detailed instructions
and offer a map that is easy to read and convenient, something that can
be printed and saved.
FACT ABOUT THE TRACK
Describe the length of
the track, the surface of the track, how the track is banked and the effect
of the banking. Include the history of the track, famous drivers who started
their careers are the tracks, etc.
THE TYPES OF KARTS/CLASSES
THAT RUN AT THE TRACK
Provide a complete description
and pictures of each type of kart. Show photos of kart racing action.
A SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
List a complete schedule
of events, including practice and race times, etc. Don’t forget special
attractions, too. This is also a good place to list admission prices and
other important information.
INTRODUCE YOUR STAFF
List your event staff
and introduce your track staff with photographs and job titles
NEW RELEASES AND PHOTOS
Include current point
standings; be sure to keep it up-to-date. Nothing annoys web surfers (and
club members) more than old news. Include a “teaser” for the next event.
A FAN’S GUIDE TO THE RACES
Describe what each flag
means, the class structure, how many races are run, how championships are
determined. Assume that very few people accessing the site understand
the basics of kart racing.
PICTURES OF THE TRACK
Show what a nice facility
you have. Include pictures of special facilities such as kid’s playground,
and the concession area. List conveniences you offer – family entertainment,
kart clubs, good food, parking, etc.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Describe the different
sponsorships available. List current sponsors as references. This
is a good place to put demographics of race fans or results of your own
(local) demographic studies. Provide the contact name and number of your
PR or Marketing Director.
CONTESTS
This is a very inexpensive
way to keep people coming back to your site. Ask a trivia question or do
a random drawing for a track hat or T-shirt. This is also a great way to
keep track of who visits your site and how often.
TRACK RULES
Offer a telephone number
for web site visitors to obtain your rule book.
PROSPECTIVE ENTRANTS
Provide a detailed description
of how a person can begin racing at your track. Start from the beginning,
assuming the person doesn’t know anyone who has raced. Take them step-by-step
from getting into a kart to what time they can practice. Show how easy
it is to begin racing at your track. List typical race day entry and pit
pass fees.
LINKS TO RACING-RELATED
WEB SITES
Keep the momentum and
interest in kart racing going by linking to other karting web sites.
Article courtesy of “Racing
Promotion Monthly”.
END
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