queensland-mowersport

Official 2007– 2008 Season Rules
Brisbane Mowersport Inc
ABN 26 336 825 395

Lawn Mower Racing Rules 2004
From AROLMRA
Version No. 1-2004
Revised for Brisbane Mowersport Inc 2008

Version incorporating amendments as at AGM in June 2007

Brisbane Mowersport Incorporated, rules as follows:

PART 1--PRELIMINARY

Brisbane Mowersport Inc. is a non-profit organization and run primarily for racing enthusiasts and their friends while contributing in some way to the local community.

Members race for the love of competition. All who share this philosophy are welcome to join the Association and participate in its activities.

These Rules (including any supplementary Rules issued for any particular event, as provided) are designed for the safe conduct of lawn mower racing in Australia and to establish acceptable requirements for such events.

However, promulgation of these Rules is not an admission that the Association has the duty to warn participants of potential hazards of participation. Moreover, these Rules are only intended as a guide for the conduct of the sport and are in no way a guarantee against injury to the person or property of participants, spectators or others, nor are they a substitute for the due care which should be exercised by participants in any event.

Finally, the Association assumes no liability for any injury or death or property damage, and all participants shall execute a release of liability discharging the Association from such liability .

The Committee of the Association, having promulgated these Rules, may modify, add to, delete from or grant exceptions to these Rules at any time, in accordance with the Model Rules of the Association and relevant applicable legislation.

By entering and participating in these events, all participants agree to abide by these Rules, as may be amended from time to time.

Of paramount importance or all organizers, competitors, officials, spectators and any other person whomsoever attending any event, shall be the safety of these persons. These Rules should be read and interpreted with this in mind.

Division 1--Introductory provisions
1. Purposes

The main purposes of these Rules are --

(a) To provide for the safe conduct of lawn mower racing in Australia; and,

(b) To provide specifications for racing lawn mowers in each racing category as may be amended from time to time; and,

(c) To provide a safe environment for all persons attending events; and

(d) To ensure that the sport of lawn mower racing in Australia remains a competitive family sport without fear or favour.

2. Commencement

These Rules shall come into operation on the 15th of June, 2002 having been approved for commencement by a majority vote of financial members present at a Special General Meeting convened in accordance with the Model Rules of the Association.

3. Definitions

(1) In these Rules--

"association” means Brisbane Mowersport Inc.

“driver” means a competitor in any event

"event" includes any competition practice or demonstration event.

"helmet” means a full face or motor cross style motor cycle rider’s helmet or race car driver’s helmet of superior quality—

That complies with current Australian Standards; and,

That fits snugly on the head; and,

This must be securely buckled when the driver is on the track,

But does not include hard hats, bicycle rider’s helmets or other safety equipment of a lesser quality.

"intoxication" includes being affected by intoxicating liquor or drug, prohibited substance or illegal drug but does not include medicines which have been prescribed and which are being used in manner prescribed.

"model rules” means the Model Rules of the Association as prescribed in s.54 of the Associations Incorporation Act 1981

“motor” in these Rules means an internal combustion engine operated by any fuel permitted under the provisions of these Rules.

“regulations” includes rules

“restricted driver” includes—

A driver who has not reached the age of 16 years; or,

a driver of any age who, in the opinion of the Chief Steward, is required to undergo a test for ability or competence before participating in any event.

“rules” includes regulations.

"ride on lawn mower” means a motor driven vehicle which has originally been specifically designed and sold commercially for mowing residential type lawns whether the vehicle is ride on, ride behind or walk behind in the form of a drum or roller mower but does not include small tractors with or without their attachments.

“standard mower” means a ride on lawn mower, which has not been altered in any way from the manufacturers original specifications.

“modified mower” means a ride on lawn mower, which is fitted with a vertical shaft type motor driving a belt or chain or belt/chain combination to the drive pulleys or gears

“super modified class “D” “Juniors” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 110cc capacity.

“super modified class “C” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 200cc capacity.

“super modified class “B” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 250 cc capacity.

“super modified class “A” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 500 cc capacity.

“unrestricted driver” in these Rules means a driver over the age of 16 years.

PART 2—DRIVER ELIGIBILITY

Division 1--General requirements for drivers

4. Drivers to be members.

All drivers participating in any event shall be financial members of Brisbane Mowertsport Inc

5. Minimum age for drivers

The minimum age for unrestricted drivers shall be 16 years

6. Minimum age for restricted drivers

Any driver under the age of 16 years will not be permitted to participate in any event without first meeting the standards of competency as required by these Rules as may be amended from time to time.

7. Restrictions applicable to drivers under 16 years

(1) Any restricted driver may be permitted to participate in standard and junior mower events but not events involving ride on mowers in the modified and super modified classes.
(2) Any restricted driver may be required to demonstrate to the technical officer his or her knowledge of the rules and ability to control a ride on lawn mower to an acceptable standard.
(3) Any restricted driver having successfully demonstrated his/her ability and knowledge under sub-section (2) may be permitted to participate in modified mower events.
8. Permission required for drivers under 18 years.

All drivers under the age of 18 years must produce written and signed (Minor’s Release) form granting permission from a parent or legal guardian to participate or assist in any event.

9. Drivers to sign a release from liability

All drivers before being eligible to participate in any event shall sign and submit a release or indemnity in the prescribed form discharging the Association from all liability.

10. Eligible drivers permitted to participate

A driver who meets the eligibility criteria shall—

(a) upon submission of the required form or forms; and,
(b) upon payment of the entry fee, if applicable; and,
Shall be permitted to participate in the event.

Division 2—Mower Eligibility

11. Eligible mowers

Events are open to all mowers, which comply with the provisions of s.3 of these Rules.

"ride on lawn mower” means a motor driven vehicle which has originally been specifically designed and sold commercially for mowing residential type lawns whether the vehicle is ride on, ride behind or walk behind in the form of a drum or roller mower but does not include small tractors with or without their attachments.

“standard mower” means a ride on lawn mower, which has not been altered in any way from the manufacturers original specifications.

“modified mower” means a ride on lawn mower, which is fitted with a vertical shaft type motor driving a belt or chain or belt/chain combination to the drive pulleys or gears will also compile with United States Lawn Mower Racing Association (USLMRA) or British Lawn Mower Racing Association (BLMRA).

“super modified class “D” “Juniors” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 110cc capacity.

“super modified class “C” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 200cc capacity.

“super modified class “B” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 250 cc capacity.

“super modified class “A” means a ride on lawn mower which has been altered from the manufacturers specifications in any structural or mechanical aspect and has been fitted with a motor which does not exceed 500 cc capacity.

12. Blades or cutters to be inoperative.

Every mower shall have the blades or cutters made inoperative by disconnection or removal

13. Modified classes not required to have blades or cutters.

Ride on lawn mowers which conform to any modified or super modified categories are not required to be fitted with cutters or blades.

14. Cut off switch requirement

All participating mowers shall be fitted with an operational cut off switch of an approved type; and,

(a) which is connected to the driver by means of a lanyard; or,
(b) a standard mower which has a pressure switch connected to the driver’s seat is not required to be fitted with a second “lanyard type” cut-off switch.

15. Mowers to be fitted with brakes.

All mowers must be fitted with an effective braking system.

16. Brake requirements for modified mowers

The minimum requirement for all modified mowers is that they shall be fitted with a braking mechanism such as hydraulic calipers applied to a braking disc which is securely affixed to the driving axle and which slows both wheels simultaneously.

17. Sharp or dangerous protrusions

Mowers, which have sharp or dangerous protrusions, shall be deemed ineligible for participation until such sharp or dangerous protrusions have been made safe or removed.

Handlebars must be plugged

18. Handlebars constructed of hollow tubing which are fitted to a ride on lawn mower shall be deemed unsafe unless the ends of the handlebars are solidly and securely blocked or plugged.

19. Suspension not permitted
Mowers shall not be fitted with suspension to the front or the rear wheels; however springs under the seat as such are permissible.

20. Subsequent technical inspection required

Any mower deemed ineligible for participation due to sharp or dangerous protrusions or that is involved in a incident causing accidental damage during a race must be re-inspected by the Technical Inspector and approved for participation in the approved manner.

21. Maximum width of mowers

The maximum width of any mower shall be 1.2 metres at the widest point.

22. Length of Mowers

The maximum length of any mower shall be determined by the structural soundness of any lengthening processes.

23. Strengthening the chassis is permitted.

The installation of braces or other components to strengthen the original chassis or body is permitted.

24. Modifications permitted

Modification of the original chassis is permitted where such modification may include the lengthening cutting or adapting of the chassis provided greater than 75% of the original chassis is retained and used on the mower where practical and safe.

25 Where any portion of the chassis is replaced during the course of any modifications necessary, the same type and quality material shall be used. The use of material of a different type or density will not be permitted. (Ie mild steel to mild steel is ok Mild steel to high grade steel or compound is not)

26. Mower to retain the appearance of a mower

Any alterations repairs or replacements to the body or chassis of the mower are permitted provided the mower retains the appearance of, and can be readily recognized as a ride on lawn mower.

27. Tyres

Tyres, which are fitted to any competition mower, must comply with the following—

1. Agricultural or flotation type ATV tyres are prohibited
2. Speed rated radial tyres as used on racing ATVs are to be used on front
3. Both tubeless or tube type tyres can be used unless prohibited by organizers
4. The use of knobby tyres or smooth pattern tyres on the drive,
Tyres will depend on the ruling by event organizers

27a Special conditions can be imposed

Special conditions restricting or modifying the rules in respect of tyres, as provided in s.28 shall comply with the provisions of s.61, 62, 63 & 64

28. Wheel Rims
Wheel rims on Modified or Super Modified Class Mowers shall be of a steel or machined alloy only and be of a one piece or welded construction. No two piece rims are permitted.
Standard Class mowers are exempt from the above rule and may be fitted with rims of a lesser type as fitted by the manufacturer.

29. Race Numbers
a) Each driver shall be issued with a registered driver number obtainable from the Secretary.
b) Registered driver numbers shall be displayed on the rear of all mowers.
c) Numbers shall be around 150 mm in height and a visible width.
d) All numbers shall be clearly displayed in dark lettering on a light background or vice versa.
e) All mowers with more than one driver must have provision to interchange numbers.

Division 3—Driver Equipment

30. Helmet

Every driver shall wear a protective helmet which complies with these Rules and Australian Standards while on the track area.

31. Clothing

Every driver shall wear full body clothing, which is constructed of substantial material and which is of a one piece construction (One piece Overalls or Race suite), or in the case of a two piece outfit it shall be of motor cross quality or better. For drivers of Standard Class mowers long trousers and long sleeved shirt is minimum standard.

32 Body armour or padding under certain circumstances

Drivers who use one piece full cover overalls may be required to wear body armour or adequate padding in addition to the overalls.

33 Gloves are required

Drivers are required to wear leather gloves motor bike or moto cross.

34. Footwear

Every driver shall wear closed leather toe footwear of substantial construction. Runners and footwear of lesser quality will not be permitted except for Standard Class.

35. Driver to ensure clothing cannot foul chains etc

Every driver shall be responsible for ensuring that clothing cannot be fouled or caught up in the machinery, chains, belts or any moving parts of his mower. Guards must be fitted to prevent this.

36. Fire Extinguisher

Every mower shall have a fully charged and current fire extinguisher rated for the fuel type used in his mower or mowers in its equipment.

Division 4 – Pit and Track Areas
37. In these Rules--

“crew” means guests of the driver who are required to assist the driver in the preparation, repair etc., of the vehicle and who are permitted to enter and remain in the pit area.

“grid” means starting line

“pit area” means a separate area set aside for drivers and/or pit crew to perform any works on mowers, refueling operations, or the performance of dangerous tasks including the use of welders power tools and similar operations.

“pit crew” means persons assisting in mower operations to assist driver.

“pit pass” means a card or method of identification to be issued to officials pit crews drivers or any person authorized under these Rules to have access to restricted areas including pit and track areas.

“steward or martial” means an official or person assigned the task of supervising behaviour and other matters in the pit track areas.

“track area” means track and includes the racetrack and surrounding area to any external boundaries, which have been clearly defined as an area prohibited for access by unauthorized persons.
The actual track width shall be no less than 4 metres in width but more where possible.

“unauthorized persons” include any persons not displaying a “pit pass”

38. Persons not permitted on grid.

No unauthorized person shall be permitted on the grid.

39. No more than 1 attendant on grid

No mower may have more than 1 attendant on the grid, in addition to the driver.

40. Separate pit areas permitted

Individual pit areas which have been designated for specific purposes such as an area for maintenance or repairs, an area for refueling or an area for operating dangerous tools is are recommended but are not compulsory.

41. Refueling.

At any time fuel is being added to a mower—

(a) the driver must have dismounted the mower; and,
(b) the mower engine must be turned off; and,
(c) at any time fuel is being added to a hot machine a correctly rated fire extinguisher must be in the hands of a crew member who is present for that purpo

42. Mower stopped before driver dismounts

The mower must be completely stopped before a driver dismounts.

43. Crews answerable to Pit Steward.

Crews are under the direction of the pit steward at all times.

44. Driver responsible for conduct of guests

The driver is responsible for the conduct of his/her guests at all times, even while on the track.

45. Unauthorised persons not permitted on track

All persons who have not been authorized by these Rules shall be denied all access to the track area.

46. Individuals entering track and pit areas to sign a release from liability

All persons, including crews and guests, before being permitted to enter the track or pit areas shall sign and submit a release or indemnity in the prescribed form discharging the Association from all liability.

47. Display of Pit pass

All authorized persons entering the track or pit areas must clearly display a pit pass or produce same immediately on the request of the pit steward or other authorized person

48. No pets on track area

No pets are allowed in the pit area or on the track area

49. Certain vehicles permitted on track area

No vehicles other than race mowers or official vehicles such as tow vehicles, track maintenance or emergency vehicles shall be on or near the track area.

Division 6—Technical Inspections

50. Mower must be approved for participation

The Technical Inspector in any event must first approve any mower which is to participate for such participation.

51. Re-inspection at any time

At any time deemed necessary, the technical inspector may require the driver to participate in a re-inspection of the mower before participation can continue.

52. Unsafe or unstable construction

The technical inspector may refuse any mower on the grounds of unsafe or unstable construction.

53. Re-inspection after incident.

(1) Drivers involved in an incident must be re-inspected in the pit or track area.
(2) A re-inspection under sub-section (1) must be conducted by the technical inspector in accordance with these Rules; and,
(3) Such re-inspection is at the discretion of the technical inspector.

54. Technical inspector to complete report of inspection

(1) The technical inspector shall complete a Technical Inspection Report in the Prescribed form which declares the mower is either approved or temporarily not approved for participation; and
(2) The technical inspector shall affix an identification mark designating the mower has been approved for participation; or,
(3) The technical inspector may require repairs or similar work to be carried out on the mower; and,
(4) The technical inspector may re-inspect the mower and further approve or not approve the mower for participation in any event.

55. Approved for competition mark to be displayed

All mowers which have been approved for participation must clearly display a sticker or other removable mark to be visible to the pit steward prior to admission to the track.

56. Drivers responsibility to designate correct mower classification etc.

It is the responsibility of the driver to correctly designate the engine type, size and event classification.

57. Association’s right to reject any mower

The Association reserves the right to reject at any time any mower which in their opinion represents an attempt to defeat the spirit of these Rules, even though such mower complies with the letter of these Rules.

Division 7—General Provisions

58. Compliance with Rules

Any Association event conducted at any location must comply with these Rules.

59. Power to make supplementary rules

The organizers of events may make supplementary rules and regulations which apply to specific local conditions and requirements.

60. Supplementary rules valid

Any supplementary rules created under s.53 shall be read and interpreted in conjunction with these rules.

61. Supplementary rules invalid in certain circumstances

Any supplementary rule created under s.53 which conflict with any provision of these Rules is invalid.

62. Drivers & Martials to attend all announced driver’s & Martials meetings.

All drivers & martials are required to attend all announced driver’s & Martials meetings. Failure or refusal to attend may result in a penalty.

63. Bumping prohibited

Deliberate or persistent bumping will not be tolerated.

64 Responsibility for safe overtaking

The responsibility for a safe overtaking or passing manouvre rests with the overtaking driver.

65. Obedience to flags

The following flag signals will be obeyed without question—

(a) A GREEN flag waved indicates the event is underway;
(b) A YELLOW flag waved or held indicates “danger – no passing on entire course”. Drivers shall form a single line and close up behind the leading driver & follow the starter’s directions. Slow forward movement is permitted but any and all race conditions are suspended under a yellow flag. The yellow flag is active on the whole track. The race shall be restarted at the start / finish line only.
(c) A RED flag displayed indicates “stop racing immediately!” Drivers should remain on their mowers and await the instructions indicated by the starter.
(d) A WHITE flag indicates one lap to go.
(e) A BLACK flag waved once is a warning waved at you a second time you are disqualified from the race & must leave the track immediately.
(f) A BLACK & WHITE CHECKED flag indicates the end of that event

66. Laps counted under a yellow flag
Laps will be counted under a yellow flag; however there will be a minimum of 2 laps under a green flag after a yellow flag, to finish the race
67. If mower stalls
If a mower stalls on the track it shall be the first responsibility of the driver to move the mower to a safe position at least 3 metres off the course.
68. If a driver leaves the course
If a driver leaves the course he/she must re-enter the course as close as practicable to the same point the mower left the course and not simply further along the track.
69. Starter can authorize crew to enter onto track
Crew may not enter onto the track area at any time during any event unless specifically directed to do so by the starter.

Division 8--Fuel

70. Permissible fuel

Petroleum or gasoline products commonly referred to as aviation-, avgas-, high octane-, super-, unleaded-, lead replacement-, premium unleaded-, fuels are permitted fuels.

71. Prohibited fuels
Fuel petroleum or gasoline products—
(a) not described in s.64; or,
(b) is a fuel commonly referred to as nitrous oxide, N.O.2, laughing gas; or,
(c) is a fuel commonly referred to as methanol or alcohol; or,
(d) is any fuel commonly referred to as LPG or liquid petroleum gas; or,
(e) is any fuel which is stored in a pressurized tank or container;

is prohibited

72. Immediate removal of LPG etc to safe distance

Any mower fitted with a pressurized tank for the storage of its fuel such as Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) or similar shall be immediately removed from the venue to a point which is not less than 2 kilometres away.

Division 9—General Conduct

73. Offensive behaviour

No member shall behave in a manner which is offensive to any person.

74. Behaviour bringing disrepute

No member shall behave in a manner which is prejudicial to the interests of the Association

75. Behaving in a manner endangering the safety of others.

No member shall conduct himself or behave in a manner which endangers the safety of himself or any other person.

76. Intoxication

(1) No member or person who is a guest of any member—
(a) shall be permitted to participate in any event; or,
(b) shall be permitted to enter the pit area—
i. as a guest; or,
ii. as a member of the crew; or
(c) shall be permitted to enter the track area—
i. as a guest; or,
ii. as a member of the crew; or
iii. as a flag marshal; or
iv. as a starter; or
v. in any other authorized capacity;
(d) shall be permitted to act in any official capacity;
Whilst he/she is in any way affected or under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drug.
77. Prohibited substances and drugs

No illicit drug, controlled or prohibited substance, shall be tolerated on the venue grounds at any time.

78. Exemption to s.73

The only exemption to s.73 shall be the possession and use of a prescribed medicine, which is properly used or administered in accordance with the prescription by the person to whom the medicine is prescribed.

Division 10—Procedures

79. Scoring

(1) During the racing year, drivers will accumulate points to determine the drivers (points) champion and runners-up to fourth place.

(a) Points will be allocated as follows—

i. for 4th place – 100 points
ii. for 3rd place – 200 points
iii. for 2nd place – 300 points
iv. for 1st place – 400 points
Mowers must finish the race under power to receive points for that race.

80. Procedures for Breaches of the Rules

(1) A report or allegation of a breach of sections 50, 52, 54, 57, 58, 59, 67, 68, 69, 70, and 71 may—
a. for a first breach be dealt with by the head official and/or members present at the venue at a time which is practicable; or,
b. for a subsequent breach of the same section must –
i. be in writing; and,
ii. comply with the provisions of s.7 of the Model Rules of the Association; and,
iii. be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the Associations Incorporation Act 1981

81. Procedures for other breaches

Any other allegation of a breach of the Rules not mentioned in s.73 and s.74 may be determined by the Chief Steward or person in charge of the venue where the breach is alleged

82. Dummy Grid

Prior to entering the track area to compete drivers will line up in a dummy grid position at the exit area from the pits. Rotating clockwise grid placement to be used.

Fig 1

83. Track Specifications & Event Codes of practice & other rulings
For all Specifications relating to track dimensions, Martial & Steward duties, safety barriers, and other guidelines for event management reference should be made to the ‘Codes of Practice for Event Management’ as specified be the association Committee of Management.

Guidelines for Technical Inspection
Overview

The person or persons assigned the task of inspecting competition mowers should bear in mind; the primary objective at any event is the safety of all persons.

One person shall be selected as the Chief Technical Inspector and it is he/she who will be authorized to sign the approval to race, “scrutineered” or “approved for competition” stickers.

There is no requirement for the Chief Technical Inspector to be qualified in small-bore engines, etc., but if such a person is available and willing, it is advisable to use him / her. The inspection itself, should include the mower, the rider and his equipment.

Mower Inspection.

The inspection should commence with the driver seated on his mower, in full race gear.

The mower should be turned off.

Check –

The Body for:

• sharp edges and dangerous protrusions
• Secure panels
• Race number
• Bonnet catches operate properly
• Seat is secure
• No suspension
• Chassis complies

Check the Mechanics for:
Wheels approved construction
Bearings serviceable
Chain / belt guards in place & serviceable
Engine securely mounted
No oil leaks
Exhaust fitted & secure
Petrol tank mounted correctly & securely
Petrol tank construction of an approved type
Fuel is an approved fuel
Steering wheel mounted securely
Handlebars (if used) are plugged at the ends
Mower has an approved kill switch fitted & working
Battery is securely and safely mounted
Brakes are effective.
Have the driver apply the brakes (while seated on the mower) and try to move the mower. Do the wheels turn?
Release the brakes and push the driver and mower in a forward motion, while moving have the driver apply the brakes. Do they work properly?
Have the driver start the engine, pull the lanyard (kill switch cord). Does the engine stop immediately?

The Driver

Driver equipment should include:

. Full cover clothing
. Gloves
. Approved helmet
- Correctly fitted
- Fastens securely
- Approved type
. Race suit or similar of an approved type
. Boots (footwear) of approved type
. Correctly rated fire extinguisher in equipment?
. Driver and crew have completed indemnity documentation
. Driver’s membership is current?

Approved for competition “Scrutineered” sticker completed and attached to mower

Piczo