Superkurts

2009 VT SHIFTER KARTS RULES AND REGULATIONS

GENERAL

Spirit and Intent: “If this book does not say you can, you can’t!” Guidelines offered in this publication are subject to the term “Spirit and Intent” and apply to the technical aspects of kart racing as well as to the actions of drivers and crewmembers. In this book, “shall” is mandatory and “may” is permissive. It is expected that all participants will adhere to the “Spirit and Intent” of these rules. These are guidelines for fair and equitable competition. They are not the basis to “read between the lines” in order to circumvent the intent.

Rules Revisions: Revisions to rules may be made at any time at the discretion of the race Director. Such revisions supersede the related sections in this document and are incorporated herein by reference. They are intended as a guide for the conduct of the sport and are in no way a guarantee against injury or death to participants, spectators, or others.

SAFETY: Safety is the primary concern at all events. Methods of operation, vehicle construction, track facilities and competition practices are under constant review to protect all participants and to reinforce the safety standards of the sport.

Disclaimers: Kart racing has certain inherent risks. Each competitor assumes those risks when they participate in an event. While everyone involved including drivers, crewmembers, officials, promoters have taken measures to reduce the risk of serious injury, the risk cannot be eliminated and will always be present at a high level. Although safety is everyone’s concern Vt Shifter Karts cannot, and is not, responsible for all or even most aspects of the safety effort. That responsibility rests with the various participants in the event.

Neither VT Shifter Karts or its officials will assume any liability for the safety or technical compliance of a competitor’s race kart and/or racing equipment.

Liability Waiver: All drivers shall sign a waiver
and release of liability before participating in any event. The entrant and/or driver, in submitting the entry form for any event, agrees to hold together with its owners, heirs, assigns, officers, representatives, agents, employees and members, harmless from all liability. This includes, but is not limited to: injury to persons, property, employees and/or reputation that may be sustained by said entrant or driver; from all claims of said injuries to parties listed above growing out of, or as a result of the event contemplated under the entry form; or caused by any construction or conditions of the course over which the event is held.

Parental Consent Form: It is mandatory that the parent or legal guardian for any minor that will be in any restricted area to complete the “Parental Consent, Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement” before being allowed to participate in or attend a VT Shifter Karts event.

A kart may be entered in more than one class, but only if the kart and driver meet all the requirements of all entered classes.

General Requirements

Helmets: Effective January 1, 2009, all helmets must meet one of the following standards: Snell M2000, Snell SA 2000, SF1 31.2, SF1 41.2 or newer standards of the same type as they become available. Note:
the chin bar must be an integral part of the helmet structure. Motocross style bolt on chin and face protectors do not meet these Snell standards.
Gloves: Must be manufactured for racing and possessing racing related grip enhancement, as well as offering a degree of abrasion resistance.
Driving Suits: Must be manufactured for racing. Suit must be SKID PROOF constructed of heavy weight, abrasion resistant material. Driving suits must be of sufficient length to cover entire leg and ankle when in seated driving position. No portion of the leg or ankle may be exposed when in the driving position. Jacket and jeans are permitted.
Footwear: Must be shoes manufactured for racing or high top sneakers. No portion of the leg or ankle may be exposed when in the driving position.
Neck Brace: Must be manufactured for racing, must include foam insert as originally designed and produced, and is required for all “on track” activities. Altered neck braces, including removal of foam insert, are in “Non Compliance.” Loss of neck brace on course may result in a BLACK flag.
Rib protectors: This protective is required for Cadet and Jr. Shifter classes and are highly recommended but NOT considered required for other classes. The lateral forces generated in kart racing are a serious concern, and all VT Shifter Karts competitors are urged to consider this protective device.
AGE CRITERIA: The minimum age to compete in an event depends on the division in which the applicant desires to compete. In no case shall any applicant be under 7 years of age (Racing year age). A driver’s age shall be determined by the age to be attained during that racing year. For example: A driver turning 15 by December 31, 2006 may race within the designated class for the 2006 race year. The applicant’s age is only a part of the driver applicant requirements. VT Shifter Karts reserves the right to place a driver in the class deemed “most appropriate” regardless of age, this being under the race director’s discretion.

OFFICIAL CLASS STRUCTURE

Description of Classes (see table that follows for additional details):
80 cc Open Shifter. - 80cc class for adults
80 cc Stock Shifter. 80cc class for adults and novice drivers

80 cc Junior Shifter. 80cc class for junior age drivers 13-17 years old
80cc Cadet A. 80cc Comer stock class for drivers 10-12 years old.
80cc Cadet B. 80cc Comer stock class entry-level class for young drivers 7-10 years old.

VT Shifter Karts has the option of offering additional/alternate classes based on circumstances, and also has the option of deleting any classes described herein.

Official Class Weight

80 cc Open Shifter. 395 lbs.
80 cc Stock Shifter. 375 lbs.

80 cc Junior Shifter.                 340 lbs.
80cc Cadet A.                            240 lbs
80cc Cadet B                             230 lbs.

RACE VEHICLE STANDARDS

Inspections: Spot checks of a competitor’s kart may be made at any time during an event. At the sole discretion of officials, violations of this section could result in a penalty
Pre-Race Tech Inspection: All drivers must present their kart and their helmet for pre-race tech inspection prior to the drivers meeting.
Kart Number and Transponder: Each member of VT Shifter Karts will be issued a kart number and are required to have a transponder compatible with AMB scoring. VT Shifter Karts does not allow duplicate numbers within the same class.

Number Plate Graphics: It is mandatory that each kart displays its racing number on all four sides.

Safety Wire: The following items shall be safety wired or cotter pinned.
Steering
• 3 Steering wheel hub bolts.
• Bolt, steering hub to steering shaft.
• Bolt, steering shaft to chassis.
• Tie rod bolts (at steering shaft and spindle arm).
• Kingpin bolts.
Braking system (Nuts must be “all metal” lock nuts)
• Clevis pin, brake pedal to frame.
• Clevis pin, brake actuating rod(s), both ends.
• Bolts, master cylinder(s) to chassis.
• Bolts, brake caliper(s) to chassis spindle.
Throttle: Clevis pin, throttle pedal to chassis.
Weights: Weight mounting bolts, double nuts or nut with safety wire. Weights will be white in color.
Chassis Construction: Chassis must be constructed of a carbon steel alloy using traditional tubular construction.

Suspension: The term “suspension” applies to elements of the overall chassis that would allow the actions of each or any of its four wheels to function independently of one another or the front axle to function independent of the rear axle. Such elements consist of, but are not limited to, springs (leaf, coil or torsion), and “action dampening” devices. The term “suspension” shall apply to, and only to, the relationship between the chassis and the tires. Components considered to be integral to the chassis are welded to the main chassis components. All other components of the vehicle are mounted to the chassis in a rigid or semi-rigid manner utilizing bolts, screws, and nuts; or tapped and threaded holes in the main chassis components. All such bolted or screwed mounts are subject to safety inspection and are pre-tech items. Traditional chassis set-up and tuning allows the use of plastic, rubber, and other such elastic composition washers or spacers, between chassis and removable frame component(s) for the purpose of adjusting overall chassis flex.
Differential Mechanisms that allow the rear wheels to rotate at different speeds relative to
each other are prohibited.
Overall dimensions: Maximum tire width is fifty-five and one eighth (55.125) inches for all classes. Maximum length is eighty-four (84) inches. No part of the driver’s head may extend past a vertical plane defined by the trailing edge of the rear tires. The distance between the ground and the center hub of the steering wheel will be no less than sixteen (16) inches. Exception: Comer Cadet have a minimum wheelbase of 35 inches.

Bumpers and Bodywork: All karts that compete in a VT Shifter Karts event must have at a minimum:
(a) Two CIK or CIK-style side pods (Note: All new-style CIK side pods must have
double bar framework on the nerf bars and a driver fairing); (b) front and rear bumpers approved by CIKIIKF/WKA, and (c) Driver fairing — CIK style with maximum width of 15” and must have a minimum of 3” clearance to any part of the steering wheel. A front nosepiece of plastic construction in general accordance with CIK specifications. The nosepiece may not exceed in width that of the front tire/wheel width as measured from the outside of each front wheel while in a straight forward position. Aerodynamic noses designed for road racing are not allowed.
No bodywork may extend wider than the rear tires, with the exception being rain setups.

(b) The rear bumper must extend to the side enough to cover at least ¾ of the rear tires.
Seat: All mounting of seat components to the main chassis shall be done in a manner that does not place the safety of the driver in jeopardy. Such “flex” mounted components that have a degree of impact on the flexibility of a chassis include, but are not necessarily limited to, front bumper, rear bumper, floor pan, side pods, radiator, silencer and seat. All such flex joints shall allow no more flex and/or motion than available from compressed semi-rigid materials such as rubber or plastic and shall be considered allowable if used in compression, such compression being created by bolts securing such materials between two rigid elements or components of the chassis, seat included. Compression is defined as: “Being in simultaneous contact with two surfaces between which the washer(s) or spacer(s) are being used and being in such compression by solid and rigid elements such as nuts and bolts.” Furthermore, use of all such semi-rigid materials shall allow at least one mounting bolt to pass through a hole in said material and not a slot. Seat mounting, at the minimum, must include the use of all traditional and integral chassis-provided components. Such components shall attach to the seat utilizing the standard nut and bolt method. The use of washers, either metal or of a softer composition, is allowed as long as such washers or spacers are in compression. Such integral components shall not number less than four (4). The addition of more struts is allowed and may also utilize the flex washers.
Seat Struts: Struts with mid-point washers are allowed as long as the furthest most ends of said strut(s) are rigidly mounted at each end. In no case may the use of any strut(s) preclude the use of chassis-provided seat mounts. In no case may the strut become more complex and include the use of metal springs of any kind, gas shocks, or any other mechanical devices expanding on the flex associated with flex washers. The “appearance” of the existence of a through bolt by affixing bolt and nut heads to mounting areas with no actual and physical connection is illegal. Seat incline shall remain consistent with sit-up sprint racing incline.
Brakes : 2 and 4 Wheel Brake Systems are optional for shifter classes. Four-wheel braking requires the use of two (2) independent master cylinders. All other classes are rear brakes only. Sufficient force applied to the brake pedal shall result in all applicable wheels being unable to turn. All hydraulic connections shall be tight and free from leaks. Fastenings for all brake pedals, pedal to master cylinder linkages, brake caliper bolts, master cylinder bolts, and master cylinder roll pins shall be cotter pinned, safety wired, or secured by circlip or snap ring. All brake rotor nuts must be “ALL-METAL” lock nuts. “Carbon/carbon” braking systems are prohibited. Carbon brake pads are allowed. Connection between brake pedal and master cylinder(s) must consist of both solid rod and safety cable.

Tires/Wheels: Wheel size for all classes shall be five (5) inches. Tires are spec for all classes.

All tires for shifter classes will be Bridgestone YJB compound.

Tires for Cadet class will be Bridgestone YJB compound 10x4.50-5 on front and rear with 450x 5 wheels .

Data Acquisition: Data acquisition devices are allowed in all classes. Data acquisition systems used during time trials & racing shall be limited to the collection and storage of data only. Systems that are capable of modifying ignition timing, air or fuel ratio mixtures, traction control, throttle position, etc. is forbidden.
Radio/Telemetry: Communication with a driver or to/from instruments while on course during qualifying or race is not allowed. The Race Director and/or Tech Officials may require that all such devices be removed for qualifying and/or racing.
Special Needs: Special “driver aids” may be allowed in certain circumstances for drivers with special needs due to physical disability.
Sound Limits: VT Shifter Karts will strive to be proactive in enforcing sound limits. All karts will be required to have a minimum silencer length of 12 inches. If it is determined that an exhaust is excessively loud, VT Shifter Karts reserves the right to require a competitor to reduce their kart’s exhaust sounds before returning to the track.

Cooling Fluid: Water Wetter solutions and anti-corrosion solutions are allowable in cooling system. Glycol based anti-freeze is NOT allowed.
Fluid Capture: The goal of VT Shifter Karts is to eliminate fluid spills (fuel, oil, water) on the racing surface, not to make sure a competitor has a fluid catch bottle(s). Obviously, the existence of such a device does not preclude spillage. The competitor must control fluid spillage. The penalty for not complying could result in a black flag. The catch bottle(s) and/or tank(s) are not a tech items.
Fuel Pumps: A single, pulse-type feed system is allowed. Any additional pumps must be for evacuation pump around system. One feed only. No electric fuel pumps allowed.
Aerodynamics
Floor Pan: Floor Pans are not allowed to extend rearward past the front seat mount/
crossbar, and must be inside the frame rails.
Skirts: No skirts or vertical aerodynamic sealing devices are allowed to extend below the mainframe rails from the forward edge of the front tires to the rear of the kart.
Wings: No wings are allowed.
Aero Effects: No duct or packing tape shall be allowed to form aerodynamic effects. Side pods may be open or closed. Taping them closed is allowed.
Transponder Location: Transponder shall be mounted no closer than 10 inches behind the center of the top of the left kingpin to the leading edge of the transponder on the left side pod. CIK position on back of seat at a height of 25cm +1- 5cm is also acceptable.

ENGINE STANDARDS ALL CLASSES

Displacement: All displacements shall bear a tolerance that shall be defined by specifications deemed “Factory Stock” in the specifications from said manufacturer. All post event tech shall rely on factory specifications in conducting a bore and stroke inspection.
Turbo or Supercharging: Turbo or supercharger systems or any form of pressurized fuel feed is strictly prohibited.
OEM defined: For the purpose of defining allowable engine components, OEM will mean parts produced by a particular manufacturer for a particular model. Where OEM parts are called out, for example, you may not use Yamaha YZ parts in a Honda CR engine, or RS transmission parts in a CR, or TM enduro parts in a TM motocross engine. The year of manufacture is not controlled, provided the parts are still commercially available to the U.S. market (unless specified otherwise).
Parts Interchangeability: OEM parts can be interchanged with any approved year model of the same brand name and similar model of motor (i.e. CR to CR, YZ to YZ etc.), provided that these parts are still commercially available over the counter in the U.S. (and unless specified otherwise).
Ignition interrupt: Speed shift/no-lift shift systems are not allowed. Connection between shift lever and J-arm must be solid (other than heim joints). No air bottles, air pumps or any other methods may be used.
Spark plug: Dimensions: Length 18.5 mm; Pitch M 14 x 125. The spark plug must be commercially available without modification. Exception is the gap of electrodes. When proper torque is applied, no thread on the spark plug shall be below the upper most portion of the cylinder dome. Some portions of the spark plug may be below the dome, i.e. electrodes and non-threaded area of the spark plug. The non- threaded area must not be altered, machined, or tampered with to circumvent the intent of this rule.
Aftermarket availability: All aftermarket products used in competition must be of standard production, be commercially available in North America, and must have been so for no less than thirty days prior to the VT Shifter Karts event.
Fuel: Race fuel is allowed with a maximum of 112 octane. Only fuel/oil combinations are allowed! No Alcohol, Oxidizers, or Hydrazine fuels may be added. Fuel tests may be administered at any time during or after an event. Failure to pass a fuel test will void all results of qualifying, heats, or feature races that the competitor has participated in during that event. Results of fuel tests are deemed final.
Sealing of engines: Sealing of engines is required for all classes except 80cc Open Shifter. Only in the case of engine damage will a repair be allowed (must first be able to verify damage or a broken part). This must be accomplished with permission from the Technical Director. One cylinder stud and one head bolt will be drilled for sealing. This process must be done before the start of event. VT Shifter Karts has the right to inspect any engine or any part at any time. After inspection, the engine will be resealed by a tech official. Refusal to submit to inspection will result in immediate disqualification from race day. VT Shifter Karts also reserves the right to confiscate spec parts for inspection.(IE: cdi box, air box, pipe and silencer)
Spec and OEM ignition tech procedures:
All ignitions will be OEM stock. Exception is open 80cc Shifter class. If preliminary tests indicate an ignition is noncompliant, VT Shifter Karts reserves the right to impound said ignition module. Module shall then be sent to an authorized test facility to verify authenticity. Results of this compliance test shall be deemed final. Refusal by a competitor to comply with an official’s request to test and/or impound their ignition module shall be considered the same as non-compliance with the ignition rule, and shall carry with it the full penalty as noted above. If tech officials elect to impound a competitor’s ignition module during the course of an event, a replacement OEM module, for the competitors make of engine, shall be provided to the competitor for the remainder of the event. Module must be returned to VT Shifter Karts officials at the end of competition for that class and event. Impounded ignition modules will be returned to the competitor within 45 days of the event. If a competitor ignition module is found to be out of compliance with this rule, the module will not be returned.

80cc Shifter Engines (all classes)

Engine Description: Engines must be mass- produced, single cylinder, Motocross motorcycle engines of the current year’s production or older. No prototype, pre-production, “works type” motors, or road race engines are allowed in these divisions. Approved engines Honda CR, Yamaha YZ, Kawasaki KX, Suzuki RM, 80 – 85 CC.
Air Box: Drivers may use an optional air cleaner and air box. An air box is required; it must be in stock form with NO MODIFICATIONS to the box or the inlet tubes. Air boxes may have up to 3 inlet tubes, each not to exceed 30mm inside diameter and 95mm minimum length. Approved air boxes are limited to CIK approved and RLV.

Engine Specifications for 80 cc open shifter

Combustion Chamber Volume: Open.
Cylinder: Porting is open.
Transmission: Open

Clutch: open. Clutch will be operated by cable, and must be manually operated. NO ELECTRONIC or PNEUMATIC clutch controls are allowed.
Exterior Case Modifications: Open

Exhaust System: Pipe/expansion chamber, stinger and silencer are open (see sound section).

Ignition CDI: OEM or aftermarket allowed.
Stator/Flywheel: open

Coil: Coil is open. The lead wire can be replaced to facilitate mounting. It is strongly recommended that ground cables be secured properly and of appropriate size to avoid shock and ignition failure.
Carburetor: One, single barrel, bowl type carb is allowed. Diagram pump type carburetors are allowed. No pressurized or otherwise force-feed fuel systems are allowed in any class. Power jets are legal. Twin pump re-circulating systems are allowed. (pump-around)
Cylinder Head: open

Piston assembly: open.
Crank, Rod, and Assembly: open

Engine Specifications for 80 cc stock shifter/ Jr. Shifter

(Sealed engine)

Engine Description Approved engines Only 80 cc engines will be allowed. Engines must be sealed by Bill Price Racing. The organizers of the VT Shifter Karts must make these arrangements. No engine modifications of any type will be allowed.

Cylinder: Porting is not allowed. Adding or deleting ports or re-sleeving is prohibited. Re-nikasil is allowed.

Cylinder Head: Machining the head in anyway is not allowed
Crank, Rod and Flywheel: Crank, Rod, and Flywheel assembly must be OEM. No modifications will be made to the assembly. Therefore, the machining, boring, or polishing of counter balances or rod, machining for the purpose of weight reduction, heavy metal balancing or altering crank pin location are all expressly prohibited. Sanding or polishing the crankshafts or bearing journals for the purpose of allowing a slip fit of the bearings is allowed. The two main bearings, big end bearing and small end bearing, piston, piston pin, ring and clips are all non-tech items.
Transmission: Transmission
components must be OEM or equal. This means that if an aftermarket part is substituted, it must be of similar dimensions as the original part. The weight of the replacement part will not be less than the OEM part. The outside diameter and tooth count of the replacement gears must be the same as the OEM part. Grinding or polishing transmission is not allowed. The only other modification allowed is the aftermarket 3rd gear. However, it must be the same tooth count and not be lighter then the OEM part.
Clutch: A wet type clutch must be used. All components must be in full and original working order. The clutch inner and outer basket and pressure plate must be OEM. Lightening of the clutch assembly by machining or grinding is NOT allowed; springs, discs, and plates may be aftermarket. The OEM number of plates must be retained. The deletion of plates is not permitted.
Exterior Case Modifications: Must remain OEM. The only exception plugging kick-start hole and Yamaha; modifying the case for updating the oil/crankcase breather system only is allowed.

Exhaust System: Pipe/expansion chamber, stinger, silencer are open (see sound section).

80 cc junior shifter must use a restrictor plate (supplied by VT Shifter Karts) and the exhaust as well as a spec pipe and silencer (supplied by VT Shifter Karts).

Ignition: Must be OEM; NO modifications allowed. This covers the complete ignition system (stator, CDI, and coil). The Yamaha must use the motorcycle type ignition only. The programmed version is not allowed. A VT Shifter Karts race official or the Technical Director may ask a competitor to swap an ignition before going out onto the track. If the competitor does not comply, they may be disqualified from the event. No static ignition advance is allowed.
Ignition Control Box: (CDI): Must use the allowed CDI modules. Direct connections to the ignition modules are limited to the starter, trigger pulse generator, coil and kill switch (if used). Kill switch, if used, must function only to kill the engine. The only other allowed connections to the ignition system as a whole shall be a surface mounted (inductive type) spark sensor attached to the high voltage spark plug wire.
Carburetor: May use the twin pump re-circulating system with the RM style carburetor with a max. bore of 28.6mm. NO modifications are allowed. The reeds and the reed cage are not tech items. The manifold must be stock with no modifications allowed. Carburetor bore measurement will be determined at the engine side of the slide. Bore may not exceed the designated maximum diameter in an area .400” wide, measured inboard of the slide.
Gaskets, Bearings, and Seals: The
Only OEM gaskets can be used Bearings and seals must be the OEM dimensions.

Comer K80 Engine Specifications (sealed engine)

Engine Description Approved engines Only Comer 80 cc engines will be allowed. Engines must be sealed by Bill Price Racing. The organizers of the VT Shifter Karts must make these arrangements. No engine modifications of any type will be allowed.

Air Box Must be the K & N air filter that is specified by Bill Price Racing.

Carburetors. Only three low speed orifices allowed. Hole size is non-tech. Hi and Low speed needle seat hole size is non-tech.Hi and low speed adjusting screws are non-tech. Hi speed dump tube may be altered; however, ball check must be in place.

Cadet B Class Must be stock carb that comes with Comer 80, Removal of choke tube is allowed

Cadet A Class Must be stock carb that comes with Comer 80, Removal of choke tube is allowed

Cylinder/Cylinder Head: Only the two-piece cylinder and head are legal. Cylinder must be OEM Engine must be run with shroud in place. Head must have Corner OEM casting identification. No welding to chamber or spark plug area allowed.
Exhaust, Intake and transfer ports:

Grinding, polishing and shot blasting are not allowed.

Bearings, Seals and Gaskets:

All bearings, seals, fasteners and gaskets must be OEM. Only ONE exhaust gasket is allowed, max spec is .060 thickness and must be whole and in place

.
Ignition: Flywheel key width shall be .115” minimum thickness. No offsetting keys allowed for advancing or retarding timing.
External modifications: Not allowed.
Engine Additions, Gearing,: Engine must be run with supplied muffler. No exhaust leaks are permitted. All items subject to tech. Engine must be run with supplied clutch

Required Gears,

Cadet A Class 10 tooth driver, 85 tooth rear gear. 219 chain

Cadet B Class 12 tooth driver, 81 tooth rear gear. 219 chain

EVENT OPERATIONS

Operational Policies

Exceptions to this are at the Race Director’s discretion.

Accidents: Race officials and emergency medical personnel are the only persons authorized to be on the track after an accident has occurred. Karts involved in an accident may be subject to inspection by Officials. Medical personnel shall examine any driver who sustains an injury. Any kart and driver involved in an accident shall continue only with approval from the Race Director.

Reckless and Dangerous: Is performing an act or omission which creates an obvious and serious risk to others without due consideration of the consequences.

Disqualification: Any driver who is disqualified from the entire event for any reason whatsoever will lose all race points and awards for that event. Only disqualifications because of a weight infraction can be used as a “throw-away” race in any VT Shifter Karts series.

Any driver, in the opinion of the Race Director, who competes with illegally modified equipment with the intent to compete illegally or the intent to defraud officials or other competitors by such modification is subject to suspension.

Any driver whose kart, or associated relevant equipment is rejected at pre-race technical inspection and who then intentionally presents the kart or equipment for re-check without having completed the required corrections, may be moved to the rear of the field.

Non-compliant fuel found in use during time trials, heat races, or pre-final mains will cause the competitor to be placed at the rear of the next race line-up. Non-compliant fuel found at the end of a feature/final race is an automatic disqualification. Participants may be granted a courtesy fuel test prior to the event, time permitting.

Protests involving specifications or drivers’ conduct must be submitted by a participant in the same class. All protests involving drivers’ conduct or involving specifications when there is no post-race tech must be submitted to the Race Director in writing within 30 minutes after the posting of the results. All protests involving specifications where there is post-race tech must be submitted to the Race Director within 30 minutes after the posting of post-tech results.

Consumption of intoxicating beverages in the pits, on the racecourse or surrounding premises by any participant during race day competition is forbidden. After the track is closed for the day, track/facility rules and local laws governing the use of alcohol shall apply. The use of narcotics and all illegal substance is forbidden. Any event participant who shows evidence of being under the influence of any of the aforementioned shall be disqualified, subject to suspension, and ejected from the premises immediately.

RACE OFFICIALS

Race Director: The Race Director is the head official at all VT Shifter Karts events. The responsibilities of the Race Director include all decisions on matters of competition, rule interpretation, and disciplinary action. It is the Race Director’s obligation to certify the legality of all aspects of the competition, including timing and scoring, vehicle conformity, fuel and engine legality. Decisions by the Race Director are final.

Grid Steward: The Grid Steward directs all grid operations, including dispatching karts to the grid, supervising the grid alignment, overseeing the entry of karts onto the track and that all karts comply published safety and technical guidelines.

Starter: The starter is in charge of all infield personnel and is in control of the racing surface during all competitive activities. Responsibilities of the starter include maintaining a safe, competitive environment on the track and displaying the appropriate flags of competition. The Black Flag will only be given upon the Race Director’s approval.

Technical Director: The Technical Director is in charge of all pre and post race inspections to insure that all karts comply with published safety and technical guidelines. The Tech Director is in charge of all technical staff and reports any and all infractions concerning safety and technical issues to the Race Director.

Other Officials: The Race Director will appoint other officials as considered necessary for race operations. These officials may include but are not limited to registration, timing and scoring, pit area, etc.

RACE PROCEDURES

Pre-Grid: The pre-grid serves the following functions: (1) to allow race officials to stage the forthcoming event, (2) to inspect for safety violations, and (3) to allow for last minute adjustments by mechanics or crew. Once the driver and kart leave the pre-grid, there can be no mechanic or crew assistance without penalty and official approval. On track mechanical work by crews will be done at the discretion of the Race Director. Competitors must be race ready, in their kart, engines running, at the two-lap indicator. Competitors not ready may be put to the rear of the field at the discretion of the Grid Steward.
Grid: Once vehicles are released to the racing surface from the pre-grid, all competitors are under “Race Conditions” and the direction and control of the Race Director. From this point forward to the point where the competitor clears post race tech, no person may assist the competitor unless directed to do so by the Race Director. A course worker is not required to help restart the kart. Karts stalling on warm-up laps or experiencing difficulties in keeping the warm-up pace are in jeopardy of losing their starting position. A kart not in proper position upon approaching the grid is subject to being placed at the rear of the field. Any such vacancies on the grid will be left OPEN. Any driver stalling while in position on the grid must raise his hand immediately. An effort may be made on the part of the grid staff to restart the kart one time only. Should this not occur, the driver is obligated to immediately remove his kart from the racing surface. If a stall occurs after the 5-second notice, the driver must raise his hand immediately and STAY IN THE KART until the field has cleared the grid.
“No Wrench” Grid: It is assumed that a kart and driver are ready for competition when they leave the pre-g rid. If it becomes necessary to do work on any competitor’s equipment, and provided the Race Director allows for such, that competitor must then start the race from the rear of the field.
Delays of Start: Any action, or lack there of, that results in delaying the event will result in penalties for the associated driver. A driver stalling on the grid must, first and foremost, raise both hands to signal trouble. Where possible, a grid official may assist in a restart effort. Failure to restart will result in officials ordering the kart and driver to a safe position off the racing surface.
Race Starts
Standing Start: One or more warm up laps are provided with the field staying in line up position. At the direction of the officials, the field will slow and precede to their designated grid position in two abreast format. It is the driver’s responsibility to know their proper position.
Flag Start: Once the field is set:
1. The flagman will raise his non-flag hand vertically, with the green flag pointed
straight down and beside his leg, signal a five-second “window” count.
2. The flagman will throw the green flag at any time within the five-second window.
Light Start:
1. During warm up lap(s), only the YELLOW light will be displayed.
2. Upon the last competitor passing the start line, on the last warm up lap, ONLY
the RED light will be displayed.
3. As competitors approach the grid, ONLY the RED light will be displayed. After the field is set and is turned over to the starter, extinguishing the RED light starts the five-second window.
4. At any time during those five seconds, the GREEN light will be displayed,
signaling the start.
RoIling Starts

Karts that arrive after the grid is closed must take a position at the rear of the pack and are not allowed to advance their position until the green flag is given.
Empty positions prior to grid closure will be filled by reordering the field. Example: Kart in P6 (outside row 3) is missing from Pre-G rid “A”. P7 would move to outside row 3, P8 to inside row 4, P9 to outside row 4 and so on.
Once the pack is released to the track, if a driver drops out of formation prior to the start, the karts directly behind the absent driver will move forward to fill the void.

Warm-Up/Formation Laps The field will be given a minimum of one warm-up and one formation lap. During the warm-up/formation laps, karts will maintain their grid positions. It is the driver’s responsibility to retain the proper grid position and the starter is not obliged to allow any additional formation lap to allow a driver who has lost position to regain it. If a driver intentionally starts out of position, that driver will be black-flagged. Drivers should make every effort to stay one kart length behind the kart in front of them. The pole position driver will control the pace of the warm up and formation laps. The P1 driver should modulate the pace such that it is possible for the field to maintain good order by the time it enters the straight on which the start line is located. If the P1 driver does not live up to this responsibility (excessive speed, brake checking, etc.), that driver will be moved to the back of the pack.
If a kart stops during any formation lap:
The driver may not attempt to restart until the entire field has passed them. The driver must push the kart to a safe spot before attempting to work on it. No outside assistance can be given to the driver. Working on the kart in an unsafe spot causing a delay to the start of a race can result in a DQ from the race. The driver may rejoin at the back of the formation, but must not try to regain their grid position. Should a driver attempt to move up through the field, or start in front of the field in the hope the leader will overtake them, they will receive the black flag and be excluded from the race. Similarly, should a driver, without stopping, fall behind the entire field they must remain at the rear for the start and not attempt to regain their position. Any infringement will result in a black flag penalty.
Start: At the direction of the officials, the field will slow and precede toward the start line in two abreast format. Speed shall be constant and relatively slow when approaching the acceleration line (marked by cones approximately 50ft prior to the Start line). The No. 2 driver must maintain position level or slightly behind the pole driver as they approach the acceleration line. Note: The No. 2 driver may correct an early jump by moving back into position prior to the acceleration line. At any point between the acceleration line and the start line, when the two leading karts are level, or the pole man is slightly ahead and the majority of the field is in position, well bunched up and in two parallel lines, the starter may give the starting signal. The front row will get two chances to get the start right, after which, at the race official’s discretion, one or both of front row drivers will be moved to the back of the pack. No further karts will be allowed out of the pits onto the track once the start signal has been given and the race has begun.

At race official’s discretion, penalties may be assessed at the end of the race for the following infractions:
Breaking out of line prior to the green flag for reasons other than contact avoidance.
Bumping or pushing.
Aggressive maneuvers that lead to contact between karts deemed avoidable by race officials.
Potential penalties to be assessed at race official’s discretion:
Rejoining Field After Start: An effort may be made by a driver to rejoin the race after the green flag has been given, unless directed to the contrary by a race official. However, failure to restart safely before the field completes the lap will result in being ordered safely off the circuit for the duration of that race.
DNS, DNF: Any driver failing to cross the start line after the green flag (race start) will be scored DNS. A Kart returning to the pits prior to the finish of the race may rejoin enter the track only at the discretion of the Grid Steward. Competitors not returning to the field will be scored DNF.

Restarts: Restarts will be a single file, rolling start in the same order as the last fully completed and scored green flag lap prior to the red or full course yellow condition. A lap is considered complete when the leader crosses the finish line to begin the next lap. Karts that caused or were involved in the incident resulting in the need for a restart may be required in the case of a full course yellow flag, or in the case of a red, to restart at the rear of the field. In the case of a red flag, drivers, unless otherwise directed, must make their way to the start/finish line and await restart alignment instructions. If the track is blocked due to a red flag incident and one or more competitor(s) stop in full control of their kart and are not involved in the incident, the Race Director has discretion, when the track is clear and safe, to allow the competitor(s) to continue to the start/finish line and be placed in grid position determined by the last completed and scored lap. NO crew or other persons may come upon the racing surface without SPECIFIC authorization from the Race Director. Drivers waiting for restart may not go to the pits. Crewmembers may not approach the kart or driver for restart or work until, and only if, directed to do so by the Race Director. Passing may begin once the green flag/light is shown.
Red Flagged Events: In cases where a race is halted due to a red flag, two methods exist regarding restarts:
Method #1: The red flag was displayed before the completion of one half of the total scheduled laps or distance. In this situation, the race will be restarted as a general rule, conditions permitting.
Method #2: The red flag was displayed after the halfway point. In this situation, at the discretion of the Race Director, the race may be declared complete and the results will be based on the last completed and scored lap. Any passing-taking place in the incomplete (red flag) lap will be negated. Drivers involved in the red flag incident will be scored behind the last running kart in the lineup and not in the position they were in on the last completed green flag lap. Restart rules apply for scoring.
Race Completion: All races will be run until the leader has completed the prescribed distance. If conditions prevent the completion of the prescribed distance, the race will be considered officially completed if half of the prescribed distance is completed.
When an event is halted due to adverse conditions, the event may be rescheduled. The rescheduled event shall start with the incomplete portion of the previous race and all original entries shall start in the same position as when the race was stopped. If the race cannot be rescheduled, and is cancelled prior to the end of all heat racing, all entered competitors will be given 100 points. If a feature line-up has been determined, or if a feature is less than halfway completed, points shall be awarded as to the line up position or the last fully completed and fully scored lap in the feature.
Pit Rules (Cold and Hot)
Access: Only those persons who have signed a release and waiver of liability will be allowed in the general pit areas. VT Shifter Karts is empowered to determine the number of persons per entry that may be permitted access to the pit area and to revoke permission as may have been granted to any individual, for misbehavior, noncompliance with the competition regulations, or disobedience to a race official’s orders. The number of such support persons may be limited and is subject to the control of the Race Director.
Fluid Disposal: No fuel, gear oil, or coolant may be disposed of at a VT Shifter Karts event. If no officially designated container is provided for disposal of specified fluids, all such fluids and their disposal are to remain the responsibility of the driver.
Hot Pit Entry/Exit: All drivers must enter and exit the hot pit area at designated pit entrance and exit only. When entering or exiting the hot pit area, during practice or a race, a driver shall yield the right of way to all other competitors already on the track. The entering or exiting drivers must stay out of the fast groove until the kart is up to racing speed and able to merge with traffic safely.
Adding Weight: The addition or removal of weight during the race, other than adding fuel, is not allowed.
Tire Disposal: All competitors are obligated to take charge of their used or junk tires in a responsible manner, and shall initiate such responsible action by taking their used and junk tires with them upon leaving the racing facility. Teams or individuals caught in violation of this rule are subject to loss of all points for the day.
Refueling: No refueling is to be done on the pave surface. Refueling must occur with the engine off and the driver out of the vehicle.
Warming of Tires: It is illegal to warm or heat tires, in any manner, in the pits and pre-grid.
On-Track Conduct: Driver conduct rules are in place to protect competitors from unreasonable interference from other competitors. This unreasonable and unacceptable interference could be generally classified as rough driving and/or blocking.
Signaling Procedure: A driver will raise one arm overhead to signal following drivers when slowing abnormally or pulling off course. The slowing driver will maintain their line and stay as close to the edge of the pavement as possible.
Blue Flag/Lapping Procedure: A driver will maintain one line to allow a faster kart(s) to pick a line to overtake them. The driver is not to block or race the lapping kart. The overtaking vehicle may or may not be right behind the kart being lapped. Furthermore, the overtaking process may or may not take place in the next turn. In the opinion of the official, the kart being lapped will be overtaken before that driver completes the present lap. It may well be by more than one vehicle, often indicated by fingers from the official presenting the flag. Failure to respond to this flag and to properly yield may result in a penalty.
Track Re-entry: Competitors must always raise a hand when re-entering the track. A kart that intentionally or inadvertently cuts the track, a corner, and/or has 4 wheels off the racing surface must yield right-of-way to competitors at racing speed. When reentering the racing surface during practice or a race, the driver must stay out of the racing line until the kart is up to racing speed and able to merge with traffic safely. If an accident or unsafe situation results upon re-entry, a penalty for “Reckless or Dangerous” driving will apply. Cutting the course during racing, regardless if position(s) were gained or lost, or cutting the course during qualifying, may be subject to penalty. This judgment is at the sole discretion of the Race Director and may be based on reports from corner flag stations or the head flagman. Karts that leave the track or stop on the track must, first and foremost, get themselves and their kart to a safe position and out of the way of others. Only after taking care of safety concerns may they attempt to restart. All such attempts must be conducted in a safe manner and under the driver’s own power. At ALL times, a driver’s privilege to attempt to restart is subject to track official’s instructions and interpretation of “safe to do so.” A driver is not to expect corner workers to assist his re-entry. If the kart cannot be restarted, the driver is to assist course workers to get the kart to a safe position. Once the kart is secured, the driver must remain in a safe place near their kart until the race is completed.
Rough Driving: Rough driving is a term commonly applied to knocking (punting) another competitor from the line or the course, nerfing, or other avoidable contact with another kart. It must be understood that there is a fine line that exists between malicious intent and inadvertent contact. The basic rule is “no contact.” Good, competitive racing sometimes sees contact between competitors. This type of contact can still be considered a violation of the rules, depending upon the incident in question. Officials will spot such infractions and take the prescribed action. VT Shifter Karts shall employ the assistance of all race officials to identify rough driving.
Blocking: Blocking tactics are blatant efforts by a leading driver to avoid being overtaken by
a trailing driver. There is a difference between being tough to pass and blatant blocking. These blocking actions observed by officials will be subject to penalties. Blocking is considered when a driver makes more than one move off the preferred racing line on a given straightaway.
Inadvertent and Unwilling Participants:
Rough driving violations can involve unwilling victims. Every effort will be made to minimize or eliminate rough driving, but it must be understood that when you enter the course you could become the victim of poor judgment or malicious intent. As a rule, no compensatory action can or will take place with regard to the violated competitor(s). All actions in such situations will be taken toward the violator.
Prescribed Action: Marginal infractions shall be met with a rolled black flag warning. Blatant rough driving is NOT subject to a warning rolled black flag, but instead a full waving black flag. Ignoring a black flag is grounds for event disqualification. All such calls, with the utmost consideration of the officials, will be final. Some contact results from missed shifts and will be judged by the official.
Repeated Violations: Competitors exhibiting tendencies toward repeated conduct violations will become susceptible to suspension penaltie