Marshalling

 

This is not everyone's favourite job but it is essential, and an inherent part of model car racing. When the track is laid out, 6 marshalling points will be marked with numbers around the track and all drivers will marshal at the point designated by their race number. The drivers from the last heat on the programme will marshal heat 1; subsequent heats will be marshalled by the drivers who have just finished their heat. Any driver with the race number 7 (and 8 if used) will assist with race control during the race following their own.

 

All marshals should be in their correct position within 2 minutes of the end of their own race. (Remember that a slow turnout of marshals holds up the programme and may result in races being lost at the end of the evening.) The Race Controller will check that all marshals are in position before starting each race and will call for any missing marshal by name. Remember that having a car problem is no excuse for not marshalling. If you do need time to work on your car, find a fellow racer who is willing to marshal for you, then clear his substitution with race control. Failure to do so could result in your disqualification from the meeting.

 

We all need alert and active marshals when we race so make sure that you marshal other cars with the same speed and efficiency you expect from the marshals when you are racing. Take care, when dealing with a car in difficulties, not to obstruct other cars. Ensure that the track is clear before attempting to move a stranded car, and avoid replacing it on the track in a position where it is likely to be hit by another. Always try to replace cars on the track at the point they left it and then leave the track promptly to avoid obstructing the drivers' view.

 

As a general rule repairs should not be carried out on the track; broken cars should be passed to the driver, if practicable. However, marshals may, provided they do not put other competitors at a disadvantage, undertake minor repairs, such as the replacement of a disconnected track-rod or a dislodged body. If a car has left the track and needs the assistance of a marshal, drivers must not use their throttle or steering while the marshal is holding the car. Wait until it has been replaced on the track before applying power to continue the race.