Competition Rules

Run Rules

Standards for timing, course completion, scoring, safety, and officiating.

  1. Course attempts have a six-minute time limit. A driver who does not finish before time expires receives a +50 point penalty.
  2. A run starts with the front axle aligned with the start gate and finishes when the rear axle crosses the center line of the final gate. Gates must be completed in numerical order and in the indicated direction.
  3. Recommended course layout: 10 numbered gates, three bonus gates, plus start and finish gates. Clubs may adjust these numbers for local needs.
  4. The start gate does not count for progress or marker points. Time starts when the scorekeeper announces “Go” and stops when the vehicle is completely through the final gate.
  5. Version 1: a driver points out at 50 penalty points. Version 2: a driver points out at 60 penalty points. Progress points earned remain part of the score.
  6. If a marker moves, the scorekeeper stops the driver and clock, replaces the marker, then restarts the run.
  7. If the vehicle becomes illegal for its class, the driver must stop and complete an on-course or off-course repair.
  8. Terrain or debris stuck in the vehicle may be removed without penalty. If left in place, it becomes part of the vehicle for gate-touch rulings.
  9. Drivers and scorekeepers follow the vehicle. A driver may call “Safety” to stop the clock and move to a safe position, then say “Ready” before the scorekeeper restarts the run.
  10. Winching is allowed in all classes except Class 0. Winch to natural terrain or an approved winch stick, never to a person.
  11. The lowest total score wins. Normally each driver runs three courses, with at least two required. Ties are broken by fastest course time.
  12. Decisions of scorekeepers and race officials are final.