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Since it doesn't concern me, my take of what I think is best for the standard of marshalling on the day first, fairness to the volunteers second. When referring to 'locals' I'm referring to people who regularly attend that circuit for lesser-graded meetings and based on attending a minimim average number of days over 2 years (I'm not going to make the decision on how many that should be! It ought to be low enough to include regular but itinerent people such as me who are lucky enough to be in easy travelling distance of several venues and so don't specialize in one place but who have also marshalled a minimum number of lower graded meetings at other circuits).
All positions. Attendance for all days of the meeting required.
Post Chiefs. 2 per post, favouring Xs first, locals second. A few spares for busy corners and to cover no-shows.
Flags. I wouldn't exceed 3 per post, and even that means 1 person at a time is doing nothing. You could justify 2 plus a few spares to cover no-shows. I'd take experienced graded flaggies first and then those who are actively training for the grade (once it comes back). A high-profile, televised, professional(!) meeting should only use those who have demonstrated ability at this difficult duty. I'd take locals over visitors because you'll always flag better at a place you know.
Incident. I suspect this is where the greatest surplus occurs, and where the greatest risk applies. I'd choose in this order:
1) Number of days in previous/this season
2) Locals - if you regularly attend a circuit it's very irritating to be pushed out when the 'good' stuff comes along.
3) Trainees who signed up at the circuit at which the event occurs, minimum of one trainee per post to ensure everyone gets a chance even if there's plenty under 1) and 2)
4) Other local trainees
5) Other trainees
Specialist roles - grid, pits, assembly. Controversial, this one.
Chief of each section regular to the series due to knowing specific regulations and customs of that series.
Assistant Chief of each section a local to the circuit who knows the peculiarities of the venue.
Others. Can you have too many grid/pits/assembly marshals, as long as they are all willing to do all of the above!
And importantly, applications to be in at the start of the season (possibly except for trainees who've signed up that year and are eligable under the guide above). Notification of acceptance/rejection sent out as soon as possible after deadline. Replacements to be called up from the rejections list where possible.
It'll upset someone, I'm sure, but it's a situation where you can't please everyone. Personally I'd rather work with someone who understands and accepts that in any case!
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