So, to pass a bit of time & to see what others are doing, I was browsing a couple of other slot car racing groups around the world. Some interesting similarities & some differences obviously in the classes that are run & the rules around the classes. But one thing grabbed my attention when I was browsing the Austin Slot Car Club, in Texas, USA. This was their Track rules & etiquette guidelines. I thought it most illuminating & something that our club  should seriously think about introducing asap.

I’ve included their guidelines below & come up with some slight edits that would be required to bring them more in line with our clubs nightly racing philosophy. My edits are in Bold & Italic.

See what you think…….
 
General Track Conduct Rules
  • Do not climb on the track or driver stations – We might have to drop this one as Phil is often seen clambering over the top of the driver stations just about every time we run on his track
  • Do not touch the track landscaping – sadly another we might have to strike off & this would prevent all marshalling. Most landscaping is “touched” or destroyed by the simple matter of putting a car back on the track !
  • Do not go behind or under the track – I challenge anyone to get under any of our tracks.
  • Do not pull the controller cords
  • Do not set your controller on the track at any time - Hmmm
  • Do not have drinks of any kind on or around the track – To be fair, this does only happen during post race supper
  • All cars must run in the same direction - Hahahaha
  • No unescorted minors below the age of 16 are allowed in the track area.
Racing Etiquette
  • No foul or abusive language. – Can anyone see any current issues with this ???
Those found in violation will receive a warning by the clerk of the course, a second violation will result in disqualification in the heat race and a third violation will result in the driver being sent home.
  • No shouting. – Goodness me, we’d have no drivers left
  • No intentional nerfing, rough or irresponsible driving that demonstrates a deliberate disregard for other competitors and their equipment. – “something, something .....sounds like Jolley”
  • No “head hunting” – deliberately crashing into an opponent. – “something, something ......sounds like Jolley”
  • Do not distract other drivers whether in your race or while spectating. – This is a legitimate tactic hey Callan !
  • Be courteous to all racers, marshals, guests and shop personnel. - 😂
  • Do not lean over the track in a manner that would block the other driver’s clear vision of the track. – Every bloody week !
  • No car liveries can display any sexually explicit or otherwise distasteful wording or images. – So Adrians Fly Le Mans car will be banned?…..seriously it’s the only livery I look forward to seeing every 2 years
Marshall Conduct
  • Marshals are not allowed to talk to the drivers during a race. – Again…..does this ever not happen ?
  • Marshals are not allowed to talk to the spectators during a race. – HAHAHAH….while cars are waiting to be marshalled perhaps ?
Spectator Conduct
  • Do not talk or distract the drivers. - Like encouraging them to drive faster, or letting them know how well they're doing ?
  • Do not talk or distract the marshals. - Actually the Marshalls do a good enough job of that themselves .
  • Do not talk or distract the Clerk of the course (Button marshal).
  • Keep a clear distance from the drivers.
Actually, all of this would have to be cut from our club guidelines…..so no point in commenting on all individual points.

Individuals who cannot behave within these guidelines will be asked to leave. - We can only hope !