So, I only have a couple of years experience, however, one thing that I am very familar with is the nausiated feeling of a co-driver whos driver thinks its fun to get the rear end of the car bouncing up and down and wont pull over because its not safe. Yes, my driver did not pull over and I vomited 5 stages in a row while we were racing. He tried once, but I yelled at him that we were racing and pulling over would only slow us down. So with that in minde here are a few crucial things a co-driver needs at all times:
1: Candied Ginger. Eat before each stage and after. Believe me it helps. I have not gotten sick since I discovered this beauty.
2: Extra water. Keep hydrated and drink cold, or hot, mint tea. It is great for an upset stomach, keeps you hydrated and you dont have to worry about putting a ton of crap into your body
3: A leak proof bag with a large opening. Helmet bags leak, learned from experience, and when you are vomiting while racing you dont want it all over your suit, belts and seat. It stinks.
4: Even if you feel fine, keep an extra leak proof bag with you. You will always have more in you to loose on the next stage. I though I was fine, didn't worry about another bag and there is only so much you can catch in your hands to try to put on the floor. The event workers don't want to look at a co-driver with vomit all over herself, seat, and belts.
5: Food, Food, Food. Even if you aren't hungry, eat. You will feel better all weekend. Eat when you first get into service. Start with a little to drink, then move on to solids. This will give you some time to digest before your next stage. Eat small amounts all day so you aren't overly stuffed. THis will also limit how much comes up later.
6: A good pair of shoes to push the damn car in. Starters go out ALL the time, at least they do in my car and drivers aren't worth a darn when it comes to that so you are on your own
7: A good warm hat to wear. After a stage, durring transit, roll down the window and put on your warm hat. It helps with nausia while the hat keeps you just warm enough. It is especially fun if it is a goofy looking hat. Who can not have fun when they look goofy?
Recap...
Remember to always have:
Candied Ginger
H2O, and Mint Tea
Leak proof bag
Food
Good Shoes
Warm Hat
And if you are ever uncomfortable with your diver, tell her. If she doesnt do what you say, "Slow down" etc. get out of the car and dont get back in until he listens. It is your life.
Good luck! And remember if you aren't having fun, what is the point?
~Randee
PS: I crewed twice before I co-drove for the first time. You dont need to do a TSD if you dont want to, however, I still dont know what the heck I'm doing sometimes.