Frequently Asked Questions
Note: Due to Covid-19 some of the regulations have changed and the following answers may not reflect (temporarily) the latest requirements and health safety guidelines. Always check the latest supplemental regulations for the event you plan on attending.
What’s Rallycross?
Rallycross is similar to autocross, based on the fact that there is one car out on the course at a time, racing against the clock. The course is delineated by cones in a large empty area. The important difference is that Rallycross is a race on dirt or other surfaces – not asphalt or pavement. Yes, you and your car will get dirty. The other main difference between the two sports is that your autocross time is based on your single fastest lap around the track (like qualifying), whereas Rally cross is set up like a stage rally. Each lap is a separate stage, and each stage counts towards your total and final time. Every lap counts (except one… we always throw away your worst lap)!
What’s TSD?
These rallies are also known as Time, Speed, and Distance (TSD) rallies, and are run on public roads. A driver and a navigator have to follow the precise route the organizers have laid out and maintain precise timing so that the rally team is always at a specific place at a specific time. The object of the event is to follow the organizers’ directions and timing instructions and while this seems easy, sometimes the directions are not so easy to follow dependent on the nature of the instructions.
The speeds set are always below the posted limits, and all rules of the road are expected to be obeyed at all times. Scoring for TSD events usually is determined by arrival times at the very cleverly hidden checkpoints the organizer has along the route. A TSD rally is NOT a speed event, and early arrivals at checkpoints result in a higher score than being similarly late. Navigational rallies are run in rural or less populated areas and provide challenges to both the driver and navigator. Interpretive abilities and team work are the skills needed to succeed. This is an inexpensive way to get involved in rallying, and you can do it in your grocery getter!
What’s ice lapping?
During winter months we run ice lapping events at Roy’s Lake in partnership with NASCC. Those events are open to anyone and run under WCMA regulations. Passing is only allowed on the designated section. If a car get stuck on a snow bank in front of you, stop outside the race line if it is safe do to so, and do not pass the stopped vehicle until you are instructed to do so. You usually get 3 or 4 track stints of 20-30 minutes in each session (60 minutes or more of track time), subject to change as the day progresses, number of volunteers, competitors, etc. All participants are required to work corners following their on-track time. Competitors maximize their on-track time as fast as we can get the next group of marshals on their positions. So if you just finished your stint, ask the organizers where you could help, so we can get the track hot again as fast as possible – and you will get back on track soon enough.
I’m new, how do I get started?
1. Our events are open to anybody, from first-timers to experienced drivers: we will find a group/class for you to develop or enhance your racing skills and enjoy your day. Find our events on the event’s calendar (website, social media, partners) and preregister online. We are managing our registrations through MotorsportReg.com: it is a safe and easy to use platform. We advise you to preregister as early as possible, as our events may sell out and not let you in, or they may not have enough attendees, forcing us to cancel it. We also offer early-bird discounts for anybody registering up to 5 days before any event – keep an eye on that and save! During registration steps you will be informed about the schedule and requirements. You will receive a confirmation email at the end, and we may email you with any important event updates. We opted to charge the fees during registration due to no-shows in the past, but we may accept money on site as a payment method. Contact us if you need that or if you encounter any difficulty during registration. You don’t have to purchase a yearly membership to run, but you will need to purchase at least a daily membership (insurance requirements), that can be added to your order during registration. For walk-in registrations (if available), bring cash for entry fee: exact cash is better but not mandatory.
2. On the event date show up on time (or early, as we rely on volunteers to help us out) with your car and preferably a helmet – check each event’s supplemental regulations for valid helmet’s specifications. Roughly speaking, Snell 2010 or newer helmets are valid as of this date. If you don’t have a helmet, you can rent one from us – we have limited number of helmets for rental, so we cannot guarantee we have the size you’re looking for. Check our partners page for helmet vendors if you’re interested in buying one. If you’re sharing your car with another driver (we recommend up to 2 drivers per car), let us know, so we can slip both of you into different running groups.
3. Check-in at the event’s site, sign the waiver by the rally bus, fill the tech form, and attend the drivers meeting. If it’s your first time, you can ask for additional instructions before or after the driver’s meeting, or ride along with other drivers until you get familiar with the track and the event structure. There are drivers who will let you ride along with them (just ask around) and some who will ride with you. Do bring something to eat and drink – sometimes we’ll have people onsite to sell food/beverages, and sometimes not. You won’t often have time to run into town for food. You may be asked to marshal between runs and you be standing outside for extended periods: dress accordingly, so you can adapt to conditions. We usually don’t have a tent or warming hut on our events, so you will be facing the weather. If you are not running you are expected to marshal for the other drivers as they did for you.
How is the day structured?
For rallycross, registration usually starts between 9-9:30 am, and stays open until 10:30. Drivers meeting starts at 10:45, and the parade laps are at 11:00 am. First timed run is around 11:15 am. Depending on weather, track conditions, and number of cars, we usually end with awards somewhere between 4:00-4:30, and request that everyone stay to help collect cones. You can expect to be heading out around 5:00, although it is sometimes a bit earlier (or later…). Other event types (such as lapping days or TSD) have specific schedule, so we advise you to check each event for detailed times.
Your day starts with registration at the timing trailer/bus. You will self-tech your vehicle and helmet according to the current CARS rules. After that, you will have some time to change tires and empty your car before the drivers meeting. After you have been thoroughly regaled with pertinent safety information, you may be able to participate in up to three parade laps through the course. Courses change throughout the day, depending on conditions, so be sure to notice things like directional cones, etc. during the parade lap and drivers meeting.
Half of your day will be spent racing, and the other half will be marshaling. During the dry, dusty summer months, you may want to get yourself a dust mask to wear while marshaling, unless having that extra grit in your teeth is something you enjoy. The main job of our marshals is to indicate to timing and race control when a car hits pylons, and how many. You will need to wear a (supplied) safety vest, and be on alert – you’ll be on a hot track.
You will get between 6-12 attempts at the course, depending on time, weather, and car count. Go fast, but too fast: stay on course, or else you’ll never get that trophy you’re chasing. Stay off the cones – they are a 2 second penalty added to your run for each cone you’ve molested. Rocks (group of 4 pylons) have an eight second penalty.
You’ll be running with people in your class. Current class structure is as follows: Novice (2 & 4 wheel drive), Expert (2 & 4 wheel drive), Pro (one class fits all), and Truck. Most newbies start in novice class, however, if you have lots of experience or were born to drive, you might find yourself bumped up to Expert. If you take a Championship podium position, you will be moved up to the next class the following year.
What do I do when I’m not racing?
Each participant is asked to go into the field and marshal for the other competitors (as they did for you). This means watching cars knock over cones, watching cars going “off course” and relaying that info back to Timing and Scoring. Marshaling is really important to all motorsports, and this is a great time to learn the basics. It’s the best seat in the house, when it comes to watching racing, and getting to call out your buddies for destroying cones is always a plus. If you’re not required to marshal, this is a good time to use the restroom, check your car, have a bite to eat, attempt to clear the mud and dust off your windshield.
How many runs do I get?
Number of runs depends on a variety of factors, including car count, weather, track conditions, etc. We aim for at least 6, but have had some events where we get 8, 10, 12 in. When we have extra time, but not enough to run too many extra runs, we may run some “fun runs”, which are not timed and you can use to practice or take a friend out for some adrenaline.
How many drivers can use the same car?
We’ve seen three. Although there is no actual limit, it does weigh on the drivers to be coordinated enough to not miss their runs. Seems simple enough and if you are on the ball…. it is. We recommend that each driver does both runs in a run group before you switch drivers, and if you only have two drivers, one should run with 2 wheel drive, and one should run with 4 wheel drive. Be sure to have your numbers clearly labelled, so it’s easy for Timing and Scoring to know which number belongs to which driver.
Can I bring my girlfriend/boyfriend/grandmother along for the ride?
Yes! There may be one passenger per vehicle. They must have an approved helmet and all the safety equipment the driver has. Children must be 16 years old and must have a waiver signed by a parent/guardian.
How old do you have to be?
You need to be at least 16, with a GDL license (no Learners permits), with a parent or guardian’s signature. Everyone over 18 needs a GDL license… no permissions required (unless you’re borrowing the car).
What kind of safety equipment do I need?
You are required to have a helmet bearing “Snell Memorial Foundation” M2010 or SA2010 (or more recent) label. Helmets must be in good visible condition, with no visible defects or damage. The other acceptable helmets are listed under 11.1.6 in the CARS rule book. You are welcome to rent a helmet from the club, just ask during your registration in the morning. Sizes are limited, so they are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Note: It is the users responsibility to ensure that their helmet fits them properly. Helmets are to be worn by drivers, co-drivers, and passengers, every time they are in the car.
All cars must have 3-point seat belts in good working condition.
What kind of modifications do I need to make to my car?
None! The only thing you might want to consider is a winter tire with an open, aggressive tread. If you want to throw a bit more money at your car, trying to find a gently used rally tire (or new ones, if you have ALL THE MONEY!) would be worth your time.
What kind of shape does my car have to be in?
It must be able to pass a basic safety inspection (no flapping or missing bodywork. Decent tires, brakes, steering, seatbelts and seats. Strapped down battery, etc.). You can find all the actual specifications in the CARS rulebook, under the Rallycross section.
What are the classes?
There are 6 classes. 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive each for Novice and Expert, Pro and truck classes. Most people start out in the Novice classes, and when you get good enough to finish in the top 3 of the class’ annual championship, you get “graduated” to the Expert class. Experts who feel they’re REALLY GOOD can elect at any time to try and compete in the Pro classes. If you are just oozing in talent, the organizers might bump you up a class to keep all the classes competitive.
How close do the cars get to each other on track?
They don’t. This is single lane, single car racing. There may be as many as four cars on the track but they are spaced far enough apart they should never meet. If you catch up to another car, you will slow down, follow the car around the track, and request a re-run. There is no passing, under any circumstances. If a car breaks down and halts the entire field, all cars on field (except the broken one!) get a re-run. Rallycross is a timed event, racing against the clock, and is never door-to-door racing.
Does my car need to be registered and insured?
No. You are welcome to bring your car on a trailer. If your vehicle is registered, we do need to see your registration in order to determine that the vehicle belongs to you. If you are borrowing a vehicle, you need to either have the owner be present to confirm that you have permission, or they must send in a signed note saying that you have permission to drive their vehicle at the event. We do not allow rental cars to compete.
I have questions about insurance…
When you race with the ERC, you will sign a form. That form means your regular insurance no longer applies and cannot be used. You are insured for the purposes of fixing the fence you drove through. That’s about it. If you break your car, it is broken. So please drive within your ability, to help you preserve your vehicle. If you have any questions about our event insurance, please feel free to ask the people at registration, after the drivers meeting, or your Timing and Scoring crew.
What am I allowed to race?
CARS (our sanctioning body) is currently working on the vehicle rules for rallycross. Currently, the standard is that your vehicle must be based on a production closed-body vehicle, should be street license-able and road worthy. Tube or box frame vehicles are explicitly forbidden. CARS is considering adding in a rule that states “The vehicle must be based on a vehicle model that is recognized by Transport Canada as a Passenger Car or Light Truck. All vehicles must be based on production passenger cars or light trucks that are of monococue or unibody construction.”
If you have questions about what you’re allowed to race (as we’ve made a few exceptions in the past), please feel free to contact us with the vehicle you’d like to bring out and your racing experience, and the governing board will get back to you.
We do retain the right to refuse entries if a vehicle has been deemed unsafe, but this isn’t something that has been seen all that often.
Can I use studded/bolted tires?
We run sanctioned events under CARS rally. Their 2019 General Competing rules states the following for studded tires:
12.4.3 Studded tires are permitted at winter events in jurisdictions that permit the use of studded tires if so defined in the event supplementary regulations. In events that are comprised of a National event and a Regional event concurrently, the supplementary regulations are to define the usage of studs for each event.
12.4.3.2 Studded tires produced by a tire manufacturer (such as the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8), that are DOT approved for use on public roads may be used. These tires must retain, the original amount and type of stud installed at time of manufacture and must not be modified. It is the entrant’s responsibility to provide supporting documentation of stud type and stud count for any such tire.
12.4.3.3 Tires in which studs are installed subsequent to the manufacturing process may also be used and the following conditions must be met.
(a) Studs must protrude no more than 3.5mm from the tread face, and meet the Tire stud Manufacturers Index (TSMI) specifications on size 12, 13, 15 or 16 (see TSMI appendix). Stud construction shall have a single base flange, a cylindrical body, and carbide tip with maximum diameter of 2.5mm.
(b) The studs must be mounted in DOT tires that are designated by the manufacturer as studdable and are produced with moulded holes for the purpose of stud retention.
(c) There may only be a maximum of 130 studs per tire, regardless of tire size.
(d) Adhesive may be used to affix the stud into the tire.
(e) Homemade, competition, specialty, off road or custom studs are not permitted.
(f) Studs are permitted in all classes.
12.4.3.4 Chains or other devices attached to or inserted into a tire are not permitted.
The only exception for this regulation is given to allow ice racing NASCC-spec bolted tires during ice lapping events – always check each event supp regs for final word. No bolted tires allowed during rallycross championship events.