2005 ROAR NATIONALS GUIDELINES · 4. PROMOTION 4.1. ROAR will post the dates of all National events on the ROAR Web Site () as soon as these are finalized. 4.2. Once approved by the

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2005 ROAR NATIONALS GUIDELINES

1. INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................... 22. ROAR RULES............................................................................................................................... 33. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS .................................................................................................. 34. PROMOTION................................................................................................................................ 45. FACILITIES................................................................................................................................... 56. OFFICIALS:................................................................................................................................... 67. ENTRY FEES................................................................................................................................ 88. REGISTRATION ........................................................................................................................... 99. ENTRY LIMITS and PROCEDURES ............................................................................................ 910. QUALIFYING HEAT SET-UP .................................................................................................. 1011. CLASSES................................................................................................................................ 1012. ROAR MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................................................. 1013. RACE FORMAT ...................................................................................................................... 1114. SCHEDULING ......................................................................................................................... 1115. WEATHER DISRUPTIONS..................................................................................................... 1116. TRACK MAINTENANCE ......................................................................................................... 1217. DRIVERS’ MEETINGS............................................................................................................ 1218. EQUIPMENT USAGE RULES................................................................................................. 1219. SCORING................................................................................................................................ 1320. AWARDS................................................................................................................................. 1421. PRACTICE .............................................................................................................................. 1422. QUALIFYING........................................................................................................................... 1523. MAINS ..................................................................................................................................... 1524. SAFETY................................................................................................................................... 1625. ELIGIBILITY ............................................................................................................................ 1726. HANDOUTS: ........................................................................................................................... 17APPENDIX ......................................................................................................................................... 191. REQUIRED CLASSES and ENTRY LIMITS............................................................................... 192. STOCK OFF-ROAD.................................................................................................................... 193. MODIFIED OFF-ROAD............................................................................................................... 194. ELECTRIC ON-ROAD (Paved and Carpet) ................................................................................ 205. CARPET & PAVED OVAL .......................................................................................................... 206. FUEL OFF-ROAD ....................................................................................................................... 207. FUEL ‘OPEN’.............................................................................................................................. 218. FUEL ‘SEDAN’............................................................................................................................ 219. 1/5th SCALE ................................................................................................................................ 21

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. The ROAR Nationals are the most important and prestigious R/C car events conducted in theUnited States and Canada. They are the “center stage” for drivers from across the United States and Canada to come together and vie for the title of ROAR National Champion. Entrants expect,and are entitled to, an atmosphere conducive to the importance of this event. The Hosts ofNational events have an obligation to the entrants, who have invested a great deal of time,money and dedication in the sport, to provide this atmosphere. Successful Hosts are those whohave previously organized high entry, high profile events. They have ROAR technical inspectionexperience and understand what it takes to find fair inspectors, referees and officials. It is veryimportant that a ROAR National Host has a good event presentation style, and that they stick tothe posted schedules.

1.2. These Guidelines are intended to help the prospective Hosts of ROAR National Championshipevents deliver on this commitment to excellence. They contain suggestions and requirements,references to the ROAR Rules and other topics. Should there be a discrepancy between anyprovision of these Guidelines and the ROAR rules, the rules will take precedence.

1.3. Nationals venue selection process: The following process is used to select the venues for eachyear’s National events (ROAR rules 12.1.4 to 12.1.7 apply):

Bids are solicited from Clubs and tracks for all events. It is suggested that organizers wishingto hold a ROAR National plan at least two or possibly three years in advance when thinkingabout holding a ROAR National event. Bids are submitted to the ROAR CompetitionAdministrator on or before July 31 of the preceding year.

The ROAR Competition Administrator sends all bids to the relevant rules Committee. TheseCommittees review all bids received and submit their recommendation to the ROAR ExecutiveCommittee for confirmation.

The ROAR Executive Committee reviews and confirms these recommendations at their Fallmeeting.

The ROAR Competition Administrator then contacts those Clubs or Tracks awarded a ROARNational event. The detailed arrangements, such as the event’s date, advertisements, entry forms and pending rule changes, will be worked out at this time.

1.4. Refer Procedural or Rule questions to:Rick Wilson, ROAR PresidentPhone: 310-940-6171Fax: 818-340-6201e-mail [email protected]

1.5. Refer Administrative or membership questions to:Fred Hohwart, ROAR AdministratorPhone: 949-494-0515Fax: 949-494-3413e-mail [email protected]

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2. ROAR RULES

2.1. The ROAR rules are very comprehensive, and give the Race Director a great deal of power aswell as responsibility to control the race program. It is the Race Director’s responsibility to havecurrent knowledge of ROAR rules for National Level events.

2.2. Hosts of National events should obtain the latest ROAR rules, the current ROAR NationalsGuidelines, and any rule revisions published in the ROAR Rev-Up Newsletter or posted on theROAR website, and make these available to all entrants prior to the day of controlled practice.

2.3. Copies of the current ROAR rules, guidelines, revisions and approved product lists must beavailable in the Technical Inspection area.

2.4. Unless previously approved by the ROAR Executive Committee, no deviations from the ROARrules or these Guidelines will be permitted. Local track or club procedures and/or rules thatconflict with ROAR rules are not allowed. Any deviations to these Guidelines or ROAR rules mustbe requested in writing and approved by ROAR before any advertising or entry forms for theevent are made public.

2.5. The Race Director and all other key officials involved in the conduct of a ROAR National must beROAR members, familiar with the rules, and able to apply them in a consistent, friendly manner.Any questions arising regarding the rules may be referred to the Designated ROAR Official for afinal interpretation.

2.6. Hosts should review all current ROAR rules, documents and publications. Please ask foranswers from the ROAR Executives when in doubt, or if you need help interpreting the ROARrules.

3. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

3.1. The Hosts of ROAR National events have two financial responsibilities to ROAR: The payment of a fee of $5 for each entry fee collected. The submission of a performance bond according to 3.2 belowThere are no other fees, but ROAR would highly appreciate any complimentary accommodationsfor the Designated ROAR Official who will attend your event.

3.2. Performance Bond: To ensure that the host’s basic financial responsibility to ROAR is met and that the race is run

according to ROAR standards, the Host is required to post a $1,000 performance bond withthe ROAR Administrator, payable as follows:

o $500 on or before January 31 of the year in which the event takes place.o The remaining $500 no later than 1 month prior to the start of the event.

After the event, ROAR may refund a portion of the performance bond amount to the Host.The ROAR fee of $5 per entry fee may be deducted from the bond, if not paid separately.$300 of the performance bond will be held for up to two months. For the Host to receive areturn of this portion of the performance bond, all ROAR technical equipment utilized by theHost for the event must be returned to, and received by the ROAR Competition Administrator,and the ROAR Administrator must receive a written race report for the Rev-Up Newsletter. If

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either the equipment is not returned or the race report is not received within two months of theend of the event, the $300 will not be refunded to the Host. The actual balance due the Hostwill be refunded after their checks to ROAR have cleared the bank. In the event ofsubstandard performance in the presentation of the event, or of loss or damage to thetechnical equipment, ROAR may retain part or all of the $1000 performance bond as deemednecessary.

3.3. If the amount due to ROAR for the $5 per entry fee exceeds the performance bond amount, thenthe amount due + $300 must be paid by the Host to the Designated ROAR Official on or beforethe last day of the event.

4. PROMOTION

4.1. ROAR will post the dates of all National events on the ROAR Web Site (www.roarracing.com) assoon as these are finalized.

4.2. Once approved by the ROAR President, entry forms for National events will be posted on theROAR website, printed in the Rev-Up Newsletter and provided to those RC magazines withwhich ROAR has an arrangement for the publication of ROAR information. In addition to theseactions, it is the responsibility of the Host to advertise the event in a timely manner, obtain asmuch media coverage as possible, and provide adequate information to ROAR members in allareas of the USA and Canada. The submission by ROAR of any entry form or other promotionalmaterial to any magazine should not be construed as a guarantee of any sort from ROAR thatthis material will be published.

4.3.Only ROAR National Events are allowed to use the term “ROAR Nationals” in their promotional efforts. All advertising must state“YYYY ROAR XXXX Nationals” (where YYYY is the year and XXXX the class of the event). Sponsors or other co-hosts may be referred to as such, but theevent must be clearly billed as the “ROAR Nationals”. (Example: The title “The Pete’s Burgers 2005 ROAR GasOpen Nationals” would not be allowed, but “The 2005 ROAR Gas Open Nationals, presented by Pete’s Burgers” is acceptable.)

4.4. All entry forms must be submitted to the ROAR President for approval as soon as practical afterthe award of the Nationals. Entry forms must be informative and in good taste. The ROAR logoand event description must be prominent on all ads, entry forms and awards. The ROAR logomust be on all event-associated items (T-shirts, caps, pit towels, etc.) given out or sold at theevent.

4.5. The entry form must contain the following information:

The ROAR Logo and the event name The ROAR Sanction Number The statement “ROAR Membership required – available at track” Basic racer information: name, address, ROAR #, class(es) entered, frequencies desired,

personal transponder numbers, etc. Space for the entrant’s signature, with the statement: “I hereby agree to abide by ROAR Rules and the decision of the Race Director”

An accounting area for entry fees, additional handouts, T-shirts, etc. Day and evening phone numbers for the Host’s event contact.

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Brief details of motel/hotel accommodations, including the phone numbers of person(s) to becontacted for reservations.

The physical address of the racetrack. If you will be able to handle ‘shipped in’ personal racing equipment from the entrants, the

person in charge of receiving and storing the shipped racing equipment should be named andthe shipping address given.

All “handout” requirements and the associated fees. Registration Deadline Date (1 month prior to the first day of qualifying). Notice of the $20.00 late registration fee. Notice of any approved deviations from ROAR Rules Notice of the type of transponders to be used for the event.

4.6. A promotional banner will be provided by ROAR to all Nationals Hosts. This banner will becomethe property of the Host after the event, as a memento of the event. The prominent display of thisbanner during the event is required. The ROAR banner should be used as central background forthe awards presentation.

4.7. A lot of help is available by involving your community. With your community’s help, holding an opening and closing ceremony may be as easy as just having had expressed the thought.Provide an on-site food and beverage service. Check with charity clubs in yourarea if you don’t already have access to an on-site food and beverage service. Barbecues are also a lot of fun.Paying a little extra for a banquet or barbecue ticket is not out of the question for most racers.Maybe, as you search for a prospective accommodations facility, reasonable banquet spacecould be worked into that bargain?

5. FACILITIES

5.1. Track: The Host Track must comply with the ROAR Track Specifications found in section 2 of the

ROAR Rules. Specifically, this includes racing lanes of the correct width, a drivers’ stand of the correct height and width, and barriers of the correct size and construction.

5.2. Pit areas: Adequate pit space must be provided for all entrants and every entrant should have an equal

amount of pit space. Electricity should be provided in a safe and equal manner to all drivers. If temporary pits are required outside of an indoor track, arrangements must be made to have

the space available prior to any scheduled practice days. These pits should be covered toprotect the drivers and equipment from the elements and should provide the sameconvenience as the drivers pitted indoors.

If the track is located outdoors and no covering and/or electricity is available to anyone, thisinformation must be relayed to the drivers on the entry form and again in the confirmationletter. In this case, adequate space must be available for drivers to park close to the facility.

5.3. Radio Frequencies & Impound Only ROAR legal FCC legal radio frequencies can be used, and a radio impound procedure is

required at all national events. See ROAR rule 2.3, section 4 and rule 5.10 for rules concerning Radio Impound, Radio

Equipment and Frequency conflicts respectively.

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5.4. Safety: Safety must be regarded in all parking and pit areas, keeping enough lanes open to be able to

move freely with as little congestion as possible, and must meet local Fire and Safety Codes. The Safety requirements outlined in ROAR Rule 1.5 must be adhered to for the duration of the

event.

5.5. Public Address: The PA System, at the minimum, must beaudible from the driver’s stand, and from all pits and

racing areas. Announcers should call car numbers as well as drivers’ names. If possible, there should be a PA system for the Referee(s) to use as a direct communication

link to the drivers and, if a fuel class, their hot-pit mechanics. This system should be separatefrom the public/pits PA if possible. If there is not a direct PA for the Referee, then the Refereemust have a separate microphone linked to the public PA, as the Referee’s communication with the drivers is crucial.

5.6. For the benefit of spectators, bleachers should be provided.

5.7.The technical inspection and radio impound areas should be located in areas near the drivers’ stand where drivers can have their cars inspected, collect or return their transmitters and moveon and off the drivers’ stand with as little congestion as possible.

5.8. Technical Inspection: Knowledgeable technical personnel, proper test equipment and adequate space out of the

weather must be available for technical inspection to run smoothly. All technical inspection equipment, such as scales, boxes, dimension tools, Approved

Products lists, etc., must be available by the first controlled practice day for entrants to ensurethat their cars meet specifications.

The ROAR Executive Committee may provide some technical equipment if possible. If we areunable to provide ROAR technical tools, we will notify the Host that they need to provide thenecessary technical inspection equipment for the event.

Random checks should be made throughout the event for illegal control devices, and otherclass-pertinent specifications not listed above.

For fuel vehicle classes using .12 and/or .15 ROAR/IFMAR engine specifications, the enginesshould be inspected and sealed during a check-in tech inspection, and the seal verified duringpost-race inspections.

The volume of fuel tanks may be verified randomly as long as all tanks are checked.

6. OFFICIALS:

6.1. Having quality personnel is paramount to having an event go well. It is up to the organizers tofind the best helpers possible for these jobs. The people helping with these duties have ourhighest respect and appreciation. Without these dedicated members there is no racing.

6.2. All Officials must be ROAR members (see ROAR rule 1.6.5) and must be strong enough incharacter to handle these positions. As a convenience to the Host, single-event membership maybe issued to non-racers helping as Radio Impound Deputies or with track maintenance.

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6.3. The following National Event Officials will be needed from the day of controlled practicethroughout all of the Qualifiers and Mains:

Designated ROAR Official (DRO) Race Director Referee(s) Finish Line Judge Technical Inspectors Scorekeepers Registration Controller Radio Impound Deputies Track Maintenance

6.4. NOTE: The authorities and responsibilities of the Officials are contained in ROAR Rule 1.6.6. There must be liquid (ROAR legal) refreshment provided for these Officials. The Race Director, DRO and Referees can make an immediate official judgments/penalties. The DRO may temporarily change ROAR rules in the event of a protest or other need for

interpretation or modification of the ROAR rules, and then only for the duration of that singleevent.

6.5. The following people may only make judgments within their area of responsibility:

Scorekeepers Technical Inspectors Registration Controller Finish line judge

6.6. Race Director: The Race Director is the primary responsible person representing the Host. He is the one

point of contact for everything, including track maintenance, setting up the facility toaccommodate the number of entries expected, and providing the staff and equipmentnecessary to run a ROAR National event efficiently. The Race Director is responsible for thesmooth operation of the event, everyone’s safety and the “fun factor” for the racers. The Race Director cannot be the designated Announcer. The Race Director may not be compete in theevent, nor serve in any other official capacity.

6.7. Referees: The Host must provide a Head Referee. There can be more than one Referee, but only one‘Head Referee’. Referees should be experienced in the scales they are refereeing; they must have a good knowledge of ROAR rules and be a current ROAR member. The Head Refereemay not participate in the event, nor serve in any other official capacity. A Referee mustobserve each heat and Main from start to finish. A Referee may be the ‘Finish Line Judge’.

A Referee may issue warnings, penalties and instructions. A Referee may take action after aninitial warning but in all cases a maximum of three issued penalties means automaticdisqualification from the event. Warnings and penalties are issued for bad sportsmanship andfor violations of ROAR rules. Referees warnings and penalties are to be announced, as soon

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as possible, to the driver committing the violation. The Referees must keep a record ofpenalties assessed in each race, referring to the Round, Heat and lap if necessary.

6.8. Protest Committee: An official protest committee must be appointed, made up of the Race Director, the ROAR

Regional Director, and the Designated ROAR Official at the race. If any of the committeecannot attend all or part of the event, then a qualified representative should be named in theirplace.

The members of the Protest Committee must be announced to the drivers at the first drivers’ meeting of the event.

All protests will be handled according to Rule 5.15. The Race Director should ensure that heunderstands the process.

It is the Race Director’s responsibility to be sure all protests and race decisions are handledfairly and equitably within the guidelines of ROAR rules.

7. ENTRY FEES

7.1. Subject to the provisions of 7.3 below, the maximum entry fee per class will be as follows:

Electric Stock classes: $70 (to include 1 handout motor) Electric Modified classes: $65 Fuel classes: $65

1.1. It is recommended that the entry fees for second and third entries (where allowed), and forprovisional or demonstration classes be discounted $5 or $10.

7.2. For events that require the use of handout tires (see ROAR Rule 7.4), one set of tires must beincluded in the entry fee. In this case, the maximum fees specified in 7.1 above may beincreased by an amount equal to, but not exceeding, the cost of one set of handout tires plus$2.00. NOTE: This increased fee is at the discretion of the Host.

7.3. For all required classes, a late fee of $20 applies to all entries postmarked or otherwise receivedafter the Registration Deadline Date (30 days before the first day of controlled practice for theevent). The late fee applies only to the racer’s first entry when more than one class is entered. Racers entering late must be called or otherwise told about the late fee. They must know aboutthis additional fee before they come to the event.

7.4. Provisional/demonstration classes should not be charged a late fee as their entries may beaccepted (encouraged) when the registration deadline date has passed, the ROAR requiredclasses are established and the event entry limit has not been met.

7.5. Refunds must be given to any entrant requesting one before the Registration Deadline Date, lessa $15 maximum cancellation fee. Refunds are optional after the Registration Deadline Date, atthe Host’s discretion.

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8. REGISTRATION

8.1. The Host will handle the registration of all entrants. This will include pre-race registration andcheck in. As most drivers should be pre-registered, this process should go smoothly as long asyou have maintained a good computer listing of all entries as they are received. Keeping a file orbinder containing all the original entry documents is also highly recommended.

8.2. Each entry made by the registration date must be acknowledged by a confirmation letter or fliergiving adequate information as to pit space, tables, electricity, race motels (plus phone numbers),instructions on how to reach the track, track schedule, open practice dates, and any otherinformation that would help assure each entrant a fair opportunity to participate.

8.3. The exchange of entries between drivers is allowed only as specified in ROAR rule 12.2.6.

8.4. The maximum number of entries per member at any event is as specified in ROAR rule12.2.1,unless otherwise stated in these Guidelines.

9. ENTRY LIMITS and PROCEDURES

9.1. Entry limits are placed on all ROAR National events to ensure that all entrants receive adequatepractice and race time at a National event. Requests for deviations from these limits must besubmitted in writing to the ROAR Executive Committee, accompanied by a detailed justificationfor the deviation and a schedule showing how the increased numbers (if applicable) will bemanaged without increasing the number of days allocated to the event.

9.2. The maximum number of entries will be limited by class as follows:

Electric On-road (Carpet and Paved): 250 entries or 25 heats maximum Electric Off-road (Stock and Modified): 300 entries or 30 heats maximum. Electric Oval (Carpet and Paved): 350 entries or 35 heats maximum Fuel Off-road: 200 entries or 20 heats maximum. Fuel On-road (Open and Sedan): 14 Heats maximum 1/5 scale On-road: 14 Heats Maximum

9.3. For events other than the Fuel On-road Sedan and Open Nationals, the Hosts have the option toopen entries on a first-come-first-served basis as soon as they wish, and subject to the threeclasses per entrant rule (ROAR rule 12.2.1)

9.4. For both the Sedan and Open Fuel On-road Nationals, initial registration will be limited to onlyone class entry per entrant. Entries may not be accepted more than 90 days prior to the event.The opening date of entry acceptance must be stated on the entry form, and must be controlledby the postmark date of received entries. Entrants may request entry to a second class at thetime of submission, but these will be allocated only if space is available after the normal 30-daydeadline, on a first-come-first-served basis as determined by the postmark date of each entry.Registration can be opened for provisional and/or demonstration classes after the registrationdeadline date if the entry limit has not been met.

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9.5.If a class has less than 10 entries as of the event’s deadline date, and the class is not a ROARrequired class, the class may be canceled at the discretion of the organizer. If a class iscanceled, regrets and refunds must be sent to those entrants immediately. Unless no one hasentered by the deadline date, required classes may not be canceled.

9.6.If there are fewer entries than the event’s entry limit allows after the registration deadline date, first priority must be given to late entries for the required classes. If there are more entries thanthe event’s Entry Limit allows, priority must be given to current ROAR members and to therequired ROAR classes. Immediate regrets must be sent or otherwise given to all unsuccessfulentrants. Entry fees received after the Entry Limit is met must be refunded.

9.7. The Host has the option to open registration on a first-come-first-serve basis for provisional ordemonstration classes after the registration deadline date, if the specified entry limit has not beenmet and no further entries for the required classes are forthcoming. Trackside entries to fill openspots are allowed at the discretion of the host.

10. QUALIFYING HEAT SET-UP

10.1. Random seeding must be used to place the drivers in their heats for all National Races. Themethod used to ensure randomness is at the discretion of the Host. The recommended methodis as follows: Maintain a record of the order in which entries were received for each class. Once the number of heats per class has been determined, place the entrants into the heats

one by one starting with the first entrant in the first heat, the second entrant in the secondheat, etc. Once all heats have one entrant, place the next entrant in the first heat, the next inthe second heat, etc.

Take frequency clashes into account as far as possible without changing the entrants’ primary frequencies if possible.

11. CLASSES

11.1. The maximum number of classes that may be offered at an event is specified in ROAR rule12.2.3. This includes Juniors’, Masters’, Provisional and Demonstration classes.

11.2. The ROAR required classes are specified in the Appendix. The ROAR Executive Committeemust approve any additional classes.

11.3. The classes requiring the use of Handout tires are specified in ROAR rule 12.4.7.

12. ROAR MEMBERSHIP

12.1. Full year ROAR membership is required at all National events. A couple of days before theevent, the Host will receive a current membership listing from the ROAR Administrator togetherwith membership application forms. Begin membership sign up when you begin registration, orbefore.

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12.2. When the Designated ROAR Official arrives, all membership material and any funds collectedmust be accounted for and then turned over to that ROAR official along with an AlphabeticalListing of all entered drivers.

12.3. In the unlikely event that a Designated ROAR Official cannot attend the event, the ROARAdministrator will issue special instructions for handling ROAR membership sign ups.

13. RACE FORMAT

13.1. Race formats by class are as follows:

Electric on-road and off-road: Four (4) rounds of qualifying conducted over a two (2) dayperiod, with the main events to be conducted on the third day. The triple A-Main system will beused for all required classes, as well as for Juniors’ and Masters’ classes, with single races for all other Mains.

Fuel off-road: Four (4) rounds of qualifying conducted over a two (2) day period, with themain events to be conducted on the third day.

Fuel on-road: Six (6) rounds of qualifying conducted over a two (2) day period, with the mainevents to be conducted on the third day.

Oval: Four (4) rounds of qualifying conducted over a two (2) day period, with the main eventsto be conducted on the third day.

1/5 scale: Four (4) rounds of qualifying conducted over a two (2) day period, with the mainevents to be conducted on the third day.

13.2. Any deviations from these formats must first be approved by the ROAR Executive Committeebefore being stated on the entry form, and advertised in advance of the event.

14. SCHEDULING

Race and (if needed) maintenance schedules must be posted no later than the day prior to thestart of qualifying. Any changes to the race and/or maintenance schedules should beannounced and updated schedules posted by the end of each day.

Many problems occur because of a poorly managed schedule. Drivers’ meetings, track setup times, practice sessions, and starting times must be listed or announcedduring a driver’s meeting. The Host should make adhering to the posted schedule a top priority.

15. WEATHER DISRUPTIONS

15.1. If an event is disrupted by weather, qualifying positions will be based on the results of roundscompleted. If mains cannot be run, finish positions will be based on qualifying positions of eachdriver in his main event. NOTE: A completed round is one in which all heats for a particular classhave been run under essentially the same weather and track conditions. At events with multipleclasses it is not necessary for all classes to complete the same number of rounds.

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15.2. Except in the case of bump-ups, if it is possible to finish some mains, A-mains should be runfirst to determine National Champions and the following mains run until it is no longer feasible todo so.

15.3. When bump-ups must be used, the time available will determine the number of mains, leadingup to the A-Mains that could possibly be run. The Race Director will determine which driver(s)qualified highest in the highest main that could not be run. These driver(s) will be moved up to fillthe maximum number of drivers necessary for the first main to be run. Bump-ups will proceednormally from there.

16. TRACK MAINTENANCE

16.1. The track must be maintained in a consistent and timely manner on a scheduled basis. Thereshould be a person appointed responsible for this duty.

16.2. On asphalt or paved surfaces, the track should be prepared and open to practice at least onehour before qualifying begins on each of the qualifying days of the event, to give the drivers anopportunity to set up on a prepared track and set a groove before the first heat.

16.3. On dirt tracks, every effort should be made to have the track in the same condition at thebeginning of each round of qualifiers. If maintenance is required during a round of qualifying, itmust be done between classes, never between heats of the same class.

17. DRIVERS’ MEETINGS

17.1.Drivers’ meetings are required before the start of the first qualifier and before the Main Events. Other meetings are at the discretion of the Race Director. These meetings set the tone for theentire program.

17.2. The meeting must be controlled and any changes announced. Track procedures, rules andapproved rule deviations must be stated. Final procedure changes and/or rule deviationsannounced at a drivers’ meeting are valid for the remaining duration of the event.

17.3. All drivers should be informed of where results sheets will be posted, where officials will be, andother important information.

17.4. Procedures in case of possible weather disruption should be explained for outdoor events.

17.5.The Designated ROAR Official should be introduced at the first drivers’ meeting and given an opportunity to speak at each meeting.

17.6.Drivers disrupting or not attending a drivers’ meeting can receive a one-lap penalty from theirbest qualifier.

18. EQUIPMENT USAGE RULES

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18.1. ROAR Rule 12.4 covers the use of approved equipment as well as the rules governing thepurchase of extra handout tires and motors.

18.2. A driver may buy a maximum of two additional stock motors per entry for a maximum of $25each.

19. SCORING

19.1. Hosts should ensure that their computer scoring system complies with ROAR Rule 5.6.1, and isalso capable of transferring race results directly (on-line) to the ROAR Web Master and/or ofrecording results to a currently used disk medium.

19.2. Autoscore and J-Lap have the latest scoring subroutines needed for scoring ROAR events. Forother software to be used, it must be approved by the ROAR President, Vice President and/orTechnical Director prior to the beginning of the event.

19.3. A complete backup of the computer system (Hardware & Software) must be immediatelyavailable.

19.4. When public transponders are to be used, two (2) complete sets of transponders are required.Proper monitoring is necessary in the charging and usage of the transponders. A backup setshould be readily available. Members may use uniquely numbered personal transponders (ie nosharing of PTs is allowed) where the new AMBrc system is installed with the appropriatesoftware.

19.5. Vehicle numbers must be visible to officials! Numbers are essential vehicle identification forthe referees (to assure fairness) as well as for scorekeeping (should a transponder fail tooperate). It is the responsibility of the host to provide ROAR approved numbers and technicalinspectors should assure that approved numbers are appropriately applied to each vehicle. Rule5.6.4 applies. This means that the Host must provide an adequate number supply to provide formaintaining (3) three number decals per vehicle, for both Qualifying and Mains.

19.6. The timing loop should be placed in a location that will create the most accurate Start/Finishreading. (i.e., It should not be placed in a turn, coming off a jump or near pit lane). All cars mustcross the timing loop (check in) prior to the start of every race to verify correct transponderoperation.

19.7. Adequate staff and backup personnel are essential in all areas of the scoring. There must bemore than one person available who is knowledgeable in operating the computer’s scoring systems, including the Operating System (DOS, Windows, etc.).

19.8. Adequate space must be provided for the Designated ROAR Official to be in the scoring boothat any time.

19.9. Results of each race and each round must be posted in an area accessible to all drivers assoon as possible after each race and round.

19.10. To resolve close finishes during the Main Events, the following guidelines apply:

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The finish line must be clearly marked on the racing surface by a line across the entire racinglane.

The finishing order of the race will be determined by the order in which the cars physicallycross the finish line. This will take precedence in the event there is a conflict with the resultsreported by the computer.

The Finish Line Judge must record the number order of the cars as they cross the finish line. The finish of all main events, except the A-Mains, must be observed by a finish line judge

and/or a dedicated finish line video camera. The use of both is recommended. The finish ofall A-Mains must be observed by both a finish line judge and a dedicated finish line videocamera.

In the case of “bump up” racing, a dedicated finish line video camera (with enough film/memory) must be used to record at least the C and B mains in their entirety.

All A Main events should be recorded to videotape in their entirety. The fact that a car crosses the finish line outside the limits of the racing line will not be cause

for a penalty unless it results in an advantage over another car. If an advantage is gained, theminimum penalty will be 10 seconds.

20. AWARDS

20.1. The Host is responsible for obtaining and presenting awards. The awards should be of a qualityand size that reflect the importance of a ROAR National. A minimum of 15% of the entry feesreceived by the entry deadline date must be used for awards.

20.2. No cash prizes may be given.

20.3. The ROAR logo must appear on all awards, and if other logos also appear then the ROAR logomust be the dominant one.

20.4. A plaque or plate recognizing their participation should be issued to each racer who hadentered on or before the entry deadline date and subsequently participated in the event.

20.5. A Concours Competition, with appropriate awards, is highly recommended, but not required.Section 13 of the ROAR rulebook contains the details for such competitions, and the suggestedscoring sheets.

20.6. A-Main awards should be presented at a ceremony following the event. Other awards may bepresented as they are earned.

20.7. When planning a banquet, these should happen when you would have the most racers, in theirbest moods. The best time is usually the night before qualifying begins. This style of informalsocial time is very important to developing ‘fun factor’ for your event. A Banquet is highly recommended at an event as prestigious as a National, but not required. Funding may besupplemented by selling banquet tickets separate from the entry fee.

21. PRACTICE

21.1. The use of the track layout for a National event is specified in ROAR Rule 12.3.1.

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21.2. One day of controlled Practice should be run on the day prior to the first day of qualifying.

21.3. Drivers should check in and pay unpaid ROAR membership and race entry fees before beingallowed to practice. If the Host is unable to show the Designated ROAR Official proof of otherliability insurance, or if the facility/club depends on the ROAR liability insurance, then racers mustnot be allowed on the drivers’ stand, within the race track area, or to run their vehicles until their ROAR membership is current.

21.4. Controlled practice should be just like the qualifying that will happen the following day. Yourcomputer system should be up and running and your scorekeeping team there for controlledpractice. You may want to run a timed Controlled Practice simulating a qualifier round. It not onlyhelps to train the racers but your event team gets a free day of practice.

21.5. Presorting or seeding for the qualifiers based on these practice sessions is not allowed.

21.6. For 1/5-scale events, all practice time, open or controlled, must have at least one (1) turnmarshal/mechanic in place. The use of the Caution warning system described in ROAR rules10.12.3 through 10.12.7 is mandatory at all times.

21.7. Only FCC legal frequencies may be used. Legal frequencies are listed in ROAR rule 4.1.1.

22. QUALIFYING

22.1. All qualifying will use IFMAR Starts, as described in ROAR rule 5.7.2

22.2. The duration of qualifying heats is specified in ROAR rule 5.1.4.

22.3. Subject to the ability of the scoring software to accommodate more than 10 drivers, themaximum number of drivers allowed in any one qualifying heat is determined by the lowernumber (rounding down) of:

Dividing the track’s expected lap times by 1.4 or Dividing the length, in feet, of the drivers’ stand by two.

22.4. There will be a mandatory re-sort at the end of the first qualifying day (or after two rounds atevents with single qualifying days). The re-sort must be based on each driver’s best single Qual-points round (or best laps/time for Oval and 1/5 scale) with ties broken by best laps/time from anyround. All scoring systems used at the Nationals must have tested re-sorting capabilities.

22.5. All drivers must use the frequency that they declared when entering the event, unless otherwisechanged by the Race Director.

23. MAINS

23.1. There will be a minimum of 10 drivers in all A Mains.

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23.2. Subject to the ability of the scoring software to accommodate more than 10 drivers, themaximum number of drivers allowed in any Main is determined by the lower number (roundingdown) of:

Dividing the track’s expected lap times by 1.4 or Dividing the length, in feet, of the drivers’ stand by two.

23.3. Triple A Main system: Triple A-Mains will be run at all Electric Nationals except for Oval classes. If a driver wins the first two Mains he must sit out the third. Triple A-Main results will be decided by a point system based on 10 points for the winner of

each separate Main on down to 1 point for the tenth placed finisher in each separate Main. The best two out of three Mains will count with the first tiebreaker being the finishing position

of the third best (remaining) Main. In the event of a need for a second tiebreaker, the total of laps and time of each driver’s best

two out of three Mains will be used.

23.4. The starting grid for Mains in Electric Classes will be a staggered grid as described in rule 5.8.2.

23.5.The starting grid for Mains in Fuel classes will be a “Le Mans” style grid as described in rule5.9.2

23.6. Race durations are specified in ROAR rule 5.1.4

23.7.“Bump ups” The use of “bump ups” is mandatory in all fuel classes and not applicable to electric classes. The two highest-placed drivers in each Main have the option to progress into the next higherMain. No change to the number of “bump up” spots is allowed.

Awards from the lower Main will not be given to drivers electing to “bump up” to the next higher Main. Should drivers choose not to “bump up”, they remain eligiblefor the awards in theirMain.

If any drivers choose not to “bump up”, the positions they would have occupied in the next higher Main must remain unfilled and may not be passed on to the next lower qualifiers.

At the discretion of the Race Director drivers electing to bump up may be excused from theirturn marshalling duty for the next race. This must be announced at the drivers meeting.

24. SAFETY

24.1. The safety of corner marshals, drivers, pit personnel, and spectators must be considered in thetrack layout, pit location and the design of jumps. All ROAR safety guidelines and rules must bestrictly enforced. 1/5th scale events must have the ROAR signal system (ROAR rule 10.12.3through 10.12.7) in operation before allowing any vehicles on the racetrack.

24.2. The use of tire traction chemicals or other chemicals that emit odors that could be offensive orare labeled as hazardous should not be permitted at indoor events or in pits that are indoors. TheRace Director has the right to ban or require any one or all traction compounds. Any ban orrequirement must be disclosed on race entry forms and in all advertising including Internetpostings.

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24.3. Provision for the proper disposal of aerosol cans, spent batteries, and waste fuel is required.Marked containers that are correctly designed for the type of waste they are to contain must beprovided.

24.4. Tobacco products: The ROAR position on, and recommendations with respect to the use oftobacco products at National events is contained in ROAR Rule 1.5.1

25. ELIGIBILITY

25.1. Except as provided below, National events are open to all ROAR members. See ROAR rule5.11.

25.2.Juniors’, Masters’, and Provisional/Demonstration classes may be included as long as they do not exceed the six-class limit or prevent entries to ROAR required classes. The age definitionsfor Juniors and Masters are contained in ROAR Rule 5.3.2.2.

25.3. In selecting additional classes to the required classes, local preferences should be considered.

25.4. When both are offered at a single event, drivers may enter either the stock or the modifiedclass of a vehicle type, but not both. At electric events where a 19T class is offered in addition tothe stock and modified classes for a vehicle type, drivers may enter stock and 19T or 19T andmodified, but not all three.

26. HANDOUTS:

26.1. Stock Motors: All stock classes at ROAR Nationals must use handout stock motors. If a 19T “Super Stock”

class is offered, the use of handout motors is at the discretion of the Host. Stock motors are to be selected by the Host. Arrangement for purchase is the responsibility of the Host. Handout motors and components (such as armatures) must be permanently marked with a

number that identifies the driver and the car. Either rebuildable or non-rebuildable stock motors may be selected as Handouts, but not both at

the same event. Regardless of which type is selected, only one model from one manufacturer ordistributor may be used.

When a Rebuildable stock motor is used as the Handout at a ROAR Level 4 event, armaturesmay not be swapped between cans (Rule 12.4.5). A Level 4 event’s Handout motor’s armature must always have the same number as the can. It is therefore up to the event Host to ensure theproper marking of the motors and armatures. If the Host is not willing to put in the extra effort tomark the Rebuildable stock motor components as described, they should use the Non-rebuildable stock motors for their event’s Handouts. When Non-rebuildable stock motors areused as Handouts, the motor should be sealed with epoxy or similar material, such as SCCAtech tape, that would chip, rip or come off if the can and end bell were separated.

26.2. Tires: Handout tires are also chosen and arranged for by the host just as the Handout motors.

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Classes that must use handout tires are defined in Rule 12.4.7.1 The Handout Tire Procedure is defined in Rule 12.4.7.4 An Official must permanently mark the wheel with the driver’s entry ID # and tire set #. e.g. (108-

2) or (108/2) would be driver (entry id. 108) and this is their 2nd set of tires for that entry. TheOfficial supervising the tire handout will keep the Handout Registration records and will control orhandle all Handout purchases.

One set (two pair, one front and one rear) of (free) Handouts will be included for each classentered. (Rule 12.4.7.5)

Purchases of further sets of tires are controlled by Rules 12.4.7.6 and 12.4.7.7.

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APPENDIX

1. REQUIRED CLASSES and ENTRY LIMITS

26.3. ROAR required classes are well-established, popular classes, as well as the current IFMARclasses. Current IFMAR classes will always be required regardless of actual IFMAR qualifyingyears. ROAR will try to keep the required classes to a minimum, to provide Nationals Hosts anopportunity to showcase favorite, popular local classes.

27. STOCK OFF-ROAD27.1. Required Classes are:

2WD Buggy 4WD Buggy 2WD Truck. Juniors 2WD Buggy Masters 2WD Truck

27.2. Juniors and Masters may enter other classes, but not in the same type vehicle.

27.3. The following drivers may not enter the Stock Off-Road National: Drivers who are currently qualified for an IFMAR World Championship or have participated in

the 2 previous Off-Road World All drivers having placed in either the A or B mains in a ROAR Modified Off-Road National in

the last two years.

27.4. If the Modified Off-Road National precedes the Stock Off-Road National, any driver whofinishes in the top 10% (rounded up) of any modified class may not enter the Stock Off-roadNational for that vehicle type.


27.6. Entry limit is 300 vehicles or 30 heats.

28. MODIFIED OFF-ROAD

28.1. Required Classes are: 2WD Buggy 4WD Buggy 2WD Truck


28.3. Entry limit is 300 Vehicles or 30 heats.

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29. ELECTRIC ON-ROAD (Paved and Carpet)

29.1. Required Classes are: 1/12th scale 4 cell Modified, 1/10th scale Modified Touring Car 1/10th scale Stock Touring Car

29.2. Suggested classes are: Juniors 1/12th scale or T.C. stock classes Masters 1/12th scale or T.C. stock classes

29.3. Handout tires will be used in all Touring Car Classes using rubber tires.


29.5. Modified Touring Cars have a 10-turn motor limit. (See ROAR rule 8.7.4)


30. CARPET & PAVED OVAL

30.1. Required Classes are: 1/10th scale 4 cell Modified 1/10th scale 4 cell stock 1/12th scale 4 cell Modified

30.2. Suggested Classes are: 1/10th scale 19 turn ‘Limited Modified’, 4 cell. Juniors’ and/or Masters’ classes



31. FUEL OFF-ROAD

31.1. Required Classes are: 1/8th scale 4WD buggy 1/10th scale 2WD truck



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32. FUEL ‘OPEN’

32.1. Required Classes are: 1/8th scale 4WD Open 1/10th scale 4WD Open


32.3. Entry Limit is determined by a 14-heat maximum. Review 9.4 above for the entry procedure.

33. FUEL ‘SEDAN’

33.1. Required Class is: 1/10th scale .12 4WD TC (IFMAR 200mm)


33.3. Entry Limit is determined by a 14-heat maximum. Review 9.4 above for the entry procedure.

34. 1/5th SCALE

34.1. Required Class is: 1/5 scale Super Touring (STC)

34.2. Suggested classes are: 1/5 scale GT 1/5 scale F1 1/5 Scale Sedan Sportsman


34.4. The specifications for a Sportsman class are at the discretion of the Host. These requirementsmust be included on the event entry form.

1.1. There is currently no entry limit for the 1/5 scale National event.

Documents

2005 ROAR NATIONALS GUIDELINES · 4. PROMOTION 4.1. ROAR will post the dates of all National events on the ROAR Web Site () as soon as these are finalized. 4.2. Once approved by the