Orgnoi1
10-22-2003, 02:53 PM
How To Get Started in Snowmobile Racing
What is the World Snowmobile Association (WSA)?
The WSA is a governing body that organizes, promotes, and regulates a variety of snowmobile competitions. These competitions include the popular Snocross series, along with the emerging Hillcross® series, Watercross, the exciting Extreme Ice series, and the Terrain-X (cross country) circuit.
The WSA was created to help racers, manufacturers, and sponsors benefit from the rapidly expanding sport of professional snowmobile racing. Our mission is to bring the sport of snowmobile racing to its highest level. We strive to bring sponsors, racers, manufacturers, fans, and a worldwide television audience the most organized, visible, dedicated, and respected circuit in the industry.
Snocross is todays most popular form of snowmobile racing with its high-flying aeriel displays and short-track, which makes it both spectator and television friendly. A Snocross track features tight turns, banked corners and a variety of bumps allowing racers to catch "big air" in full view of spectators.
Do I have to be a WSA member in order to race?
In order to race in the WSA or at WSA sanctioned events you need to be a competition member. The 120s class drivers are required to be a competition member. The cost for the 120s competition membership is $60.00.
I've decided to become a member, how do I sign up?
There are three ways to join the WSA.
1. On-line registration through www.wsaracing.com. Click the on line membership icon and follow the instructions.
2. Print the appropriate membership form off of the WSA website by going to "racer forms", under racer info. Fax it to the WSA headquarters at 651.209.7447. You must pay with a credit card for this option.
3. Mail the form, along with payment, to the WSA office, attention Memberships.
What does the Competition Membership include?
For $115.00 you can race in WSA and WSA sanctioned events from California to Maine in the following snowmobile racing categories: Snocross, Hillcross®, Xtreme-Ice, Terrain-X, and Watercross. There are 3 levels of competition, which include National, Regional and District and you are welcome to race in any or all of them.
In addition to being able to race in the above circuits, you will also receive a WSA membership packet which includes:
an OFFICIAL MEMBERS ONLY WSA HAT [$20 value]
a WSA 2002-2003 highlight video [$20 value]
membership card
10% discount on WSA merchandise at National and Website Orders
[You MUST present your membership card before you can get your discount on merchandise at the National Events]
WSA Sno-X Magazine [issues will include the current issue at the time you sign up through the April 2004 issue] and the 2003 WSA Yearbook
What does a Non-Competition membership include?
This IS NOT a racing membership but the membership packet does include the following benefits:
an OFFICIAL MEMBERS ONLY WSA HAT
membership card
10% discount on WSA merchandise at National and Website Orders
50% discount on the WSA 2003-2004 highlight video
[$20.00 video for $10.00]
WSA Sno-X Magazine [issues will include the current issue at the time you sign up through the April 2004 issue] and the 2003 WSA Yearbook
WSA Racing stickers and Racing patch
What are the different levels of Snocross racing and what do they mean?
The National level is called the Snocross Worldwide Championship series. The series includes eleven nationally televised races. This is the highest level of snowmobile racing in the world and draws the best racers from around the globe.
The Regional and local/club levels are a ladder type system where racers from beginners to pros can race. These circuits compete on a more local basis than the National tour. These circuits are a great place to get started and provide all levels of competitive racing. These two levels focus on giving drivers more "seat time" in order to gain more experience. WSA and it's 14 sanctioned affiliates hold races across the world stretching from California to Maine, Alaska to Iceland.
What are the different classes and what do they mean?
The classes listed on the race entry forms relate to the age of the racer, the competitive level of the driver and the type of snowmobile you are racing. Because our affiliated regions are independently owned, you need to check with them to verify the classes they run. You can contact them by clicking here.
How do I enter a race?
Once you've selected your racing circuit you can get the appropriate racing forms from them. Please keep in mind that each circuit has specific deadlines for registration and there may be penalties or additional fees for late registration. Also, many races fill up so it's very important to register early.
If you plan on racing a National event, the deadline for registration is 21 days prior to the race date. Entries must be faxed at least 21 days in advance to WSA National headquarters. The fax number is 651.209.7447. These races fill up quickly so if you want to race a National, don't wait until 22 days before the race to enter, you could be disappointed.
What kind of safety gear do I need and where do I get it?
Safety is a critical part of racing and should be taken very seriously. Body armor, helmets and shin guards are some of the necessary equipment. Specific instructions can be found in the WSA rulebook. This rulebook is included with the Competition membership packet. If you have questions that are not found in the rulebook, please call us at 651.209.7400 or you can email [email]bbodley@wsaracing.com[/email].
What about Bib numbers and Sled numbers?
It is the responsibility of the driver to have clear, readable numbers. Remember, if the numbers cannot be read while the sled is moving, the driver stands a good chance of not being scored properly. Listed below are some other things you should know about numbers.
New Members
Because we have so many drivers, many numbers have already been chosen. You must submit three (3) choices for your number and WSA will do everything possible to make sure you get the numbers you requested. If none of your requested numbers are available we will assign one to you. Number requirements are listed below;
3 digits
None starting with zero
No letters
Sled: White background - Black numbers - minimum 6" to 8" maximum High by 3/4"Wide
Bib: Orange background - Black numbers - minimum 8"H by 1"W
Returning Members
Grandfather Clause- returning members are allowed to keep their former BIB Numbers even if they include single digits or double digits. However, letters will not be recognized by WSA headquarters and will not be listed on the Web. It will be up to the Affiliate Circuits to decide if they want to allow their racers to run letters or not. For example, if a racer sends in a Membership application with the BIB Number 12F on it, WSA headquarters will process the membership as 12. The membership card will read 12 as well as any records in our office.
Returning Members that advance to the next class can keep their previous BIB Number unless it is already taken. Should that number be taken they may choose another number under the Grandfather Clause.
Sled: White background - Black numbers - minimum 6" and maximum of 8" High by 3/4"Wide
Bib: Orange background - Black numbers - minimum 8"High by 1"Wide
Where should I race and what class should I race in?
There are 14 regions that are affiliated with the WSA. With your WSA competition membership you are able to race in any of these affiliates. You should pick a region that is close to home or has the level of racing you are looking for. A map with a complete list of these affiliates can be seen by going to www.wsaracing.com and clicking on the Snocross X logo at the top of our home page.
What class you should race depends on your age, skill level, and the type of sled you have. WSA allows racers to progress through a wide variety of classes. We have many options including Juniors, Beginners, Sport, Semi-Pro and Pro classes.
Junior Racing
All Junior racers MUST have a completed original Minor Waiver form, and birth certificate, on file at WSA National office. Minor Waiver forms can be downloaded from our website. These forms must be notarized and we need the original form in our office (due to insurance regulations, a faxed copy will NOT be sufficient)
10-13 year old class: Our insurance carrier has implemented a few special restrictions for this class. Kids racing the 10-13 class must have snowmobiles that are fan cooled, stock sleds and they must be 440 cc or less. 10-13 year olds cannot race in a Pro or a Pro-Am class. Please check the rulebook for more information.
14-15 year old class: This group is allowed to run liquids or fan cooled sleds and they do NOT have to be stock. They cannot race in a Pro or Pro-Am class. 14-15 year old racers are able to advance to the sport classes but must be approved by the race circuit to do so. Please contact them for a list of criteria for advancement.
16-17 year old class: If you are new to snowmobile racing and live in Minnesota or the surrounding area, you can begin your racing career in either the local/club or the Regional level. Outside Minnesota we have regional race affiliates where you can get started. National races are designed for experienced racers.
If you have past snowmobile racing experience and want to try a WSA National, you can submit a racing resume for review. If approved, you may be able to race at a National event. WSA has the final say in the approval process.
If you do not have a racing resume you can get information on writing one by going to our Racer FAQs and click on the "What is a Racer Resume?". There will be a PDF you can download with guidelines for writing a Racer Resume.
What is a typical Snocross weekend like?
Registration: Registration for racers and their crew is typically on Friday evening and Saturday morning. Racers will check in and they will receive a weekend access wristband upon showing their WSA membership card and signing the insurance waiver. This wristband will allow them access to the facility and the pit area. Racers will be able to purchase a weekend wristband for their crew at a discounted rate. After registration has ended, the discounted rate for crew members will no longer be available and the crew will have to purchase general admission tickets.
Drivers Meeting / Pre-Tech Inspection / Practice: There will be a drivers meeting given by the race director on Saturday and Sunday morning, times will be posted on the schedule of events sheets. Drivers that attend the meeting will receive a pass which will allow them to practice (time and weather conditions permitting). Before practice begins there will be a pre-tech inspection which may include sled safety equipment and rider safety gear. Please note that you will have to pass pre-tech inspection before you can practice.
Staging: Heats will be posted on the board in the staging area as soon as possible. The heats will be numbered so it may be a good idea to write your heat numbers on duct tape and stick it on your sled. There will be a flip chart visible in the staging area to let racers know which race is being staged. If for some reason, (technical problems, injury, etc.) you cannot run a race, please let staging know right away. If you have any questions, you can talk to the WSA staging official.
Results / Awards: Typically the race results will be posted in the staging area within a half hour after the race. If you have any questions regarding these results you should bring them to the attention of the WSA race officials in or near the WSA trailer. There is no set policy for when awards and trophies are given out so please check with race officials as to the time and location of the awards presentations.
MISC: Snocross is a great sport that the whole family can participate in. Kids can see first hand what teamwork can accomplish, see examples of good sportsmanship and get to be involved in a sport that can be viewed by their friends in the stands and, at the National level, seen on television.
What are the rules and where do I get them?
Competition members will receive a rulebook as part of their membership. Because new rules are implemented during the course of the year it's important to check the WSA RULES on our homepage as any additions or modifications to our rules will be posted there. It is the racers responsibility to check this before competing!
How do I advance a class?
When age permits, you may automatically advance to the next class. If your child has a birthday mid-season, it is up to you and your child to decide if you should advance to the next age group. For instance, if your child is in the Junior 10-13 class and turns 14 mid season, it is at your discretion to advance your child or not.
If a racer is dominating a class, they may be asked by the race director to advance to the next level even if the next level is above their age group. Otherwise, a racer finishing in the top 5 in season points may submit a racing resume to their race director and request that they move to the next level.
A racer may submit a racing resume and fill out a class advancement form one week prior to an event and request that the race director will watch them race.
If a racer is new to WSA but has racing experience, he or she may submit a racing resume and request placement in a particular class. WSA will make the final determination on class placements and that decision will be final.
My kids want to race the 120 class.
If your child is racing in the 120 class, a competition membership is required. The cost for the membership is $60.00.
There are specific rules that govern the 120 racing. There are at least two classes 120 stock and 120 modified. We have included the 120 stock rules in our rulebook. WSA affiliates will use ISR Champs rules for the 120 Mod Class in Snocross.
We must have an original minor waiver form on file at the WSA headquarters before your child will be able to race at any event. This waiver form can be printed off of the website. It must be signed by the racer, a parent or legal guardian, and a public notary. Please note this form must be mailed and not faxed.
A parent or guardian must attend the races and will be required to sign a different minor waiver release form along with their child at racer check-in.
Please be a good example for your child and the other children around you and remember to keep it fun..
For the National races, however, things are done a bit differently. The races at the Nationals are called the Jr. Snocross Challenge. You don't need a WSA membership to participate in these. You pay a one event fee and the kids run more of an exhibition. The sleds, helmets and safety equipment are all provided. All kids will receive a medal for participating. For more details, see the Jr. Snocross Challenge under Racer Info on the front of the website.
What is the World Snowmobile Association (WSA)?
The WSA is a governing body that organizes, promotes, and regulates a variety of snowmobile competitions. These competitions include the popular Snocross series, along with the emerging Hillcross® series, Watercross, the exciting Extreme Ice series, and the Terrain-X (cross country) circuit.
The WSA was created to help racers, manufacturers, and sponsors benefit from the rapidly expanding sport of professional snowmobile racing. Our mission is to bring the sport of snowmobile racing to its highest level. We strive to bring sponsors, racers, manufacturers, fans, and a worldwide television audience the most organized, visible, dedicated, and respected circuit in the industry.
Snocross is todays most popular form of snowmobile racing with its high-flying aeriel displays and short-track, which makes it both spectator and television friendly. A Snocross track features tight turns, banked corners and a variety of bumps allowing racers to catch "big air" in full view of spectators.
Do I have to be a WSA member in order to race?
In order to race in the WSA or at WSA sanctioned events you need to be a competition member. The 120s class drivers are required to be a competition member. The cost for the 120s competition membership is $60.00.
I've decided to become a member, how do I sign up?
There are three ways to join the WSA.
1. On-line registration through www.wsaracing.com. Click the on line membership icon and follow the instructions.
2. Print the appropriate membership form off of the WSA website by going to "racer forms", under racer info. Fax it to the WSA headquarters at 651.209.7447. You must pay with a credit card for this option.
3. Mail the form, along with payment, to the WSA office, attention Memberships.
What does the Competition Membership include?
For $115.00 you can race in WSA and WSA sanctioned events from California to Maine in the following snowmobile racing categories: Snocross, Hillcross®, Xtreme-Ice, Terrain-X, and Watercross. There are 3 levels of competition, which include National, Regional and District and you are welcome to race in any or all of them.
In addition to being able to race in the above circuits, you will also receive a WSA membership packet which includes:
an OFFICIAL MEMBERS ONLY WSA HAT [$20 value]
a WSA 2002-2003 highlight video [$20 value]
membership card
10% discount on WSA merchandise at National and Website Orders
[You MUST present your membership card before you can get your discount on merchandise at the National Events]
WSA Sno-X Magazine [issues will include the current issue at the time you sign up through the April 2004 issue] and the 2003 WSA Yearbook
What does a Non-Competition membership include?
This IS NOT a racing membership but the membership packet does include the following benefits:
an OFFICIAL MEMBERS ONLY WSA HAT
membership card
10% discount on WSA merchandise at National and Website Orders
50% discount on the WSA 2003-2004 highlight video
[$20.00 video for $10.00]
WSA Sno-X Magazine [issues will include the current issue at the time you sign up through the April 2004 issue] and the 2003 WSA Yearbook
WSA Racing stickers and Racing patch
What are the different levels of Snocross racing and what do they mean?
The National level is called the Snocross Worldwide Championship series. The series includes eleven nationally televised races. This is the highest level of snowmobile racing in the world and draws the best racers from around the globe.
The Regional and local/club levels are a ladder type system where racers from beginners to pros can race. These circuits compete on a more local basis than the National tour. These circuits are a great place to get started and provide all levels of competitive racing. These two levels focus on giving drivers more "seat time" in order to gain more experience. WSA and it's 14 sanctioned affiliates hold races across the world stretching from California to Maine, Alaska to Iceland.
What are the different classes and what do they mean?
The classes listed on the race entry forms relate to the age of the racer, the competitive level of the driver and the type of snowmobile you are racing. Because our affiliated regions are independently owned, you need to check with them to verify the classes they run. You can contact them by clicking here.
How do I enter a race?
Once you've selected your racing circuit you can get the appropriate racing forms from them. Please keep in mind that each circuit has specific deadlines for registration and there may be penalties or additional fees for late registration. Also, many races fill up so it's very important to register early.
If you plan on racing a National event, the deadline for registration is 21 days prior to the race date. Entries must be faxed at least 21 days in advance to WSA National headquarters. The fax number is 651.209.7447. These races fill up quickly so if you want to race a National, don't wait until 22 days before the race to enter, you could be disappointed.
What kind of safety gear do I need and where do I get it?
Safety is a critical part of racing and should be taken very seriously. Body armor, helmets and shin guards are some of the necessary equipment. Specific instructions can be found in the WSA rulebook. This rulebook is included with the Competition membership packet. If you have questions that are not found in the rulebook, please call us at 651.209.7400 or you can email [email]bbodley@wsaracing.com[/email].
What about Bib numbers and Sled numbers?
It is the responsibility of the driver to have clear, readable numbers. Remember, if the numbers cannot be read while the sled is moving, the driver stands a good chance of not being scored properly. Listed below are some other things you should know about numbers.
New Members
Because we have so many drivers, many numbers have already been chosen. You must submit three (3) choices for your number and WSA will do everything possible to make sure you get the numbers you requested. If none of your requested numbers are available we will assign one to you. Number requirements are listed below;
3 digits
None starting with zero
No letters
Sled: White background - Black numbers - minimum 6" to 8" maximum High by 3/4"Wide
Bib: Orange background - Black numbers - minimum 8"H by 1"W
Returning Members
Grandfather Clause- returning members are allowed to keep their former BIB Numbers even if they include single digits or double digits. However, letters will not be recognized by WSA headquarters and will not be listed on the Web. It will be up to the Affiliate Circuits to decide if they want to allow their racers to run letters or not. For example, if a racer sends in a Membership application with the BIB Number 12F on it, WSA headquarters will process the membership as 12. The membership card will read 12 as well as any records in our office.
Returning Members that advance to the next class can keep their previous BIB Number unless it is already taken. Should that number be taken they may choose another number under the Grandfather Clause.
Sled: White background - Black numbers - minimum 6" and maximum of 8" High by 3/4"Wide
Bib: Orange background - Black numbers - minimum 8"High by 1"Wide
Where should I race and what class should I race in?
There are 14 regions that are affiliated with the WSA. With your WSA competition membership you are able to race in any of these affiliates. You should pick a region that is close to home or has the level of racing you are looking for. A map with a complete list of these affiliates can be seen by going to www.wsaracing.com and clicking on the Snocross X logo at the top of our home page.
What class you should race depends on your age, skill level, and the type of sled you have. WSA allows racers to progress through a wide variety of classes. We have many options including Juniors, Beginners, Sport, Semi-Pro and Pro classes.
Junior Racing
All Junior racers MUST have a completed original Minor Waiver form, and birth certificate, on file at WSA National office. Minor Waiver forms can be downloaded from our website. These forms must be notarized and we need the original form in our office (due to insurance regulations, a faxed copy will NOT be sufficient)
10-13 year old class: Our insurance carrier has implemented a few special restrictions for this class. Kids racing the 10-13 class must have snowmobiles that are fan cooled, stock sleds and they must be 440 cc or less. 10-13 year olds cannot race in a Pro or a Pro-Am class. Please check the rulebook for more information.
14-15 year old class: This group is allowed to run liquids or fan cooled sleds and they do NOT have to be stock. They cannot race in a Pro or Pro-Am class. 14-15 year old racers are able to advance to the sport classes but must be approved by the race circuit to do so. Please contact them for a list of criteria for advancement.
16-17 year old class: If you are new to snowmobile racing and live in Minnesota or the surrounding area, you can begin your racing career in either the local/club or the Regional level. Outside Minnesota we have regional race affiliates where you can get started. National races are designed for experienced racers.
If you have past snowmobile racing experience and want to try a WSA National, you can submit a racing resume for review. If approved, you may be able to race at a National event. WSA has the final say in the approval process.
If you do not have a racing resume you can get information on writing one by going to our Racer FAQs and click on the "What is a Racer Resume?". There will be a PDF you can download with guidelines for writing a Racer Resume.
What is a typical Snocross weekend like?
Registration: Registration for racers and their crew is typically on Friday evening and Saturday morning. Racers will check in and they will receive a weekend access wristband upon showing their WSA membership card and signing the insurance waiver. This wristband will allow them access to the facility and the pit area. Racers will be able to purchase a weekend wristband for their crew at a discounted rate. After registration has ended, the discounted rate for crew members will no longer be available and the crew will have to purchase general admission tickets.
Drivers Meeting / Pre-Tech Inspection / Practice: There will be a drivers meeting given by the race director on Saturday and Sunday morning, times will be posted on the schedule of events sheets. Drivers that attend the meeting will receive a pass which will allow them to practice (time and weather conditions permitting). Before practice begins there will be a pre-tech inspection which may include sled safety equipment and rider safety gear. Please note that you will have to pass pre-tech inspection before you can practice.
Staging: Heats will be posted on the board in the staging area as soon as possible. The heats will be numbered so it may be a good idea to write your heat numbers on duct tape and stick it on your sled. There will be a flip chart visible in the staging area to let racers know which race is being staged. If for some reason, (technical problems, injury, etc.) you cannot run a race, please let staging know right away. If you have any questions, you can talk to the WSA staging official.
Results / Awards: Typically the race results will be posted in the staging area within a half hour after the race. If you have any questions regarding these results you should bring them to the attention of the WSA race officials in or near the WSA trailer. There is no set policy for when awards and trophies are given out so please check with race officials as to the time and location of the awards presentations.
MISC: Snocross is a great sport that the whole family can participate in. Kids can see first hand what teamwork can accomplish, see examples of good sportsmanship and get to be involved in a sport that can be viewed by their friends in the stands and, at the National level, seen on television.
What are the rules and where do I get them?
Competition members will receive a rulebook as part of their membership. Because new rules are implemented during the course of the year it's important to check the WSA RULES on our homepage as any additions or modifications to our rules will be posted there. It is the racers responsibility to check this before competing!
How do I advance a class?
When age permits, you may automatically advance to the next class. If your child has a birthday mid-season, it is up to you and your child to decide if you should advance to the next age group. For instance, if your child is in the Junior 10-13 class and turns 14 mid season, it is at your discretion to advance your child or not.
If a racer is dominating a class, they may be asked by the race director to advance to the next level even if the next level is above their age group. Otherwise, a racer finishing in the top 5 in season points may submit a racing resume to their race director and request that they move to the next level.
A racer may submit a racing resume and fill out a class advancement form one week prior to an event and request that the race director will watch them race.
If a racer is new to WSA but has racing experience, he or she may submit a racing resume and request placement in a particular class. WSA will make the final determination on class placements and that decision will be final.
My kids want to race the 120 class.
If your child is racing in the 120 class, a competition membership is required. The cost for the membership is $60.00.
There are specific rules that govern the 120 racing. There are at least two classes 120 stock and 120 modified. We have included the 120 stock rules in our rulebook. WSA affiliates will use ISR Champs rules for the 120 Mod Class in Snocross.
We must have an original minor waiver form on file at the WSA headquarters before your child will be able to race at any event. This waiver form can be printed off of the website. It must be signed by the racer, a parent or legal guardian, and a public notary. Please note this form must be mailed and not faxed.
A parent or guardian must attend the races and will be required to sign a different minor waiver release form along with their child at racer check-in.
Please be a good example for your child and the other children around you and remember to keep it fun..
For the National races, however, things are done a bit differently. The races at the Nationals are called the Jr. Snocross Challenge. You don't need a WSA membership to participate in these. You pay a one event fee and the kids run more of an exhibition. The sleds, helmets and safety equipment are all provided. All kids will receive a medal for participating. For more details, see the Jr. Snocross Challenge under Racer Info on the front of the website.