It is hard to argue with Larry63r's post.
Having flagged pro events (Daytona, St. Louis, and others) that was not the case 'in my day'. Yellow was always "wheels down" and no passing. Flaggers and flag stations rarely have more than a blue and yellow flag (and more often than not - no blue!).
I was one of those guys that would jump out on the track to protect the rider and ponited and waved like crazy. I was landed on in St. Louis during one of the LCQ's. Although I do it, I don't expect others to be so stupid and I expect there are insurance liabilities for the track owners/promoters as well. The flagger was on or next to the jump, in plain sight of the on coming riders waving the yellow flag. Although he ain't a "super flagger", he was doing his job.
Coop said,
Riders at the pro level are extremely focused, a flagger needs to do something to get their attention.
but my response to that is that BECAUSE they are at the pro level, they see EVERYTHING in view. It is that kind of focus that allows them to go so fast, see lines developing, and reacting to changing situations. Look at Bubba withthe photographer last year (or me with the photgrapher this year - I empathise with Bubba for that one). They saw that flagger and decided "I'll keep it pinned and make up a few seconds on anyone who lets off" or " If I let off and be safe, I'll get passed and the organizers will not defend me and give me my position back".
I commend Robby for "trying" to do the right thing and hope for a speedy recovery - but this is a PERFECT opportunity to drill home some basic riding skills anda safety - and the idiots in the booth missed it completely!
