(Each month, Gonzalo “Gonzo” San Miguel, the SCCA® RallyCross® Board (RXB) Chair, presents you with the latest RallyCross news and information.)
Over the past few months, I’ve highlighted different roles in the RallyCross hierarchy that do not always get the credit they deserve. We started with Divisional Stewards, then moved to Safety Stewards, and finally Event Organizers. While these positions are vital in organizing and running a safe and fun event, an event cannot function without the support of the RallyCross community participants in the form of course workers.
Course workers must be dedicated individuals who will ensure the safety, fairness, and smooth operation of every event. While drivers capture the spotlight with their adrenaline-fueled maneuvers, it's the course workers who operate as a cohesive group, embodying the spirit of RallyCross in its purest form.
Safety is always paramount in RallyCross, with no exception. Course workers play a crucial role in maintaining a safe environment for drivers, spectators, and each other. From inspecting the course for hazards to promptly responding to emergencies, their presence is a reassuring force that allows drivers to push their limits with confidence. Whether it's clearing debris from the track or signaling for medical assistance, course workers are the first line of defense against unforeseen dangers.
Moreover, course workers uphold the integrity of the sport by enforcing the rules we must all follow. They ensure that drivers adhere to the course layout, penalizing those who cut corners, miss gates, and hit cones. Fairness is paramount in RallyCross, and course workers diligently monitor each run to maintain a level playing field for all competitors. Their commitment to upholding the standards of the sport ensures that victory is earned through skill and precision rather than missed calls.
Beyond safety and fairness, course workers contribute to the overall efficiency and organization of RallyCross events. From setting up the course before the competition to dismantling it afterward, their efforts are instrumental in keeping events running smoothly. They manage the flow of vehicles and provide essential support to race officials, allowing the event to unfold seamlessly. Without the dedication and hard work of all the workers, events would not be possible.
In essence, course workers are the most important component of a RallyCross event, embodying the values of teamwork, dedication, and passion for motorsport. Your selfless commitment to ensuring the safety, fairness, and efficiency of every event enriches the experience for drivers, spectators, and organizers alike. As the engines roar and the dust settles, let us not forget the indispensable role played by you, the workers, for you are the heartbeat of RallyCross, driving the spirit of motorsport forward with unwavering resolve.
Photo by Rupert Berrington
