2008-2009 Racer Information Update

There were minimal changes made to the cross-country rules at the annual ISR meeting. However, there are several items that racers should be aware of for next season. They are:

1) Helmets. 2008-2009 will be the final race season that a SNELL 2000 helmet certification will be allowed. After next season, only the SNELL 2005 certification will be legal for racing use. As always, the color orange must be the primary color on your helmet, covering a minimum of 75% of the exterior surface. Racers not meeting this requirement will not be allowed to race. Overall, USCC racers did a very good job of meeting this rule last winter.

2) Fuel. Fuel testing will be conducted to verify that only pump fuel is being used. No additives or exotic fuels are allowed in cross-country racing.

3) Sled colors. There cannot be any orange colored parts, pieces or decals on any machine used in competition. This includes the snowmobile itself, even if the sled came stock from the manufacturer colored orange.

4) Racer jacket requirements. The racers jacket (or bib) must contain a minimum of 144 square inches of orange visible on both the front and back of the coat.

5) Shin guards are mandatory equipment.

6) Although not mandatory, safety equipment such as a Leatt neck brace and elbow pads are highly recommended.

7) As stated earlier, the manufacturers are working on an alternative sled option for the Junior classes for 2010 and beyond.

8) We are looking at some minor revisions to the class structure for this season. The two classes that might see changes are the Fan class and the Vintage class. If membership numbers are poor in these classes, we may discontinue them. Anyone who plans on racing either the Fan class or Vintage class this season is encouraged to contact the USCC with their intentions. We want to continue these classes, but need the entry numbers to justify them.

9) About 3/4 of the schedule is set for next season. We are hoping to have the full schedule completed by July 1.

10) The date for the Red Lake I-500 is January 16-18, 2009