Introduction

• Autocross is a low cost speed event for cars of all types which takes place on an unsealed surface of grass or stubble, in effect a sprint on grass.
• A permit for an Autocross event will only be issued to a Club which is registered with the MSA.
• Competitors must hold the appropriate MSA Competition Licence.
• Both the Timekeeper and Scrutineer(s) must be MSA licensed officials.
• The MSA will appoint a Steward to all Autocross events.  All other officials are appointed by the organising club.

The course

• Ideally, a field of at least 18 acres is required to allow for safety requirements.
• The track is a continuous loop, measuring between 800 and 1200 metres in length.  It should be flat or gently undulating, and be free of large stones.  Sharp corners should be avoided.
• No part of the track may be close to hedges, fences, trees, electricity poles etc.
• A plan of the proposed track must be submitted to the MSA before a permit can beissued.
• Depending upon the width and length of the track, cars start singly, in pairs or in fours.  Cars may have several runs, but are timed individually, normally with the fastest single run determining the winner of each class.
• Ideally the start line will be offset from the track to avoid rutting and to facilitate the smooth running of the event.
• No straight may be more than 200m in length, and the start must be at least 100m from the first corner.
• Section G of the MSA Competitors' Yearbook specifies the minimum distance that spectators may be from the track, location of fire extinguishers and other safety requirements.
• A limited number of penalty markers may be used to define the track, and hitting these will incur a time penalty.  Marshals must be positioned in safe places to observe these markers.
• A paddock for the competing cars, and parking for spectators are ideally accommodated in an adjoining field.
• Good access for trailers, emergency vehicles etc, from the public road is essential, especially if inclement weather is encountered.
• The venue should be signposted from the nearest main road.

Vehicle regulations

• All cars must be passed by the Scrutineer before taking part in practice or the competition.
• Racing cars are not permitted.
• Cars must be fitted as a minimum with a three point safety harness (diagonal and lap strap).
• A medium sized fire extinguisher must be carried.
• An external circuit-breaker (for the electrics) is not mandatory, but is recommended.
• A roll-over cage is not mandatory, but is recommended.
• Detailed vehicle regulations are in Section G of the MSA Competitors' Yearbook.

Safety

• Drivers must wear a crash helmet to current MSA standard, and flame resistant overalls.
• The minimum medical coverage is one Doctor (or MSA Registered paramedic) and one ambulance.
• The ambulance must be equipped with the basic resuscitation equipment.
• The local hospital should be advised that the event is taking place.
• The Clerk of the Course should have under his control either a licensed rescue unit, or a vehicle equipped with specified emergency gear.
• It is strongly recommended that a breakdown vehicle, capable of lifting two wheels of a competing car off the ground, is present.
• Straw bales must not be used as track markers.
• All competitors must receive the opportunity of completing practice runs before the competitive runs start.

The environment

• Subject to careful planning, Autocross has generally not caused environmental problems, but ensure compliance with set noise levels for competing vehicles.  Keep away from dwellings and habitation in general.  Try and minimise the effects of dust and stop mud getting onto the highway at access points in inclement weather.
• After the event ensure that the field is completely cleared of all rubbish etc.

Clubcross

• The MSA has granted a waiver to some of the Autocross Regulations for a simpler form of the sport known as Clubcross.
• This is restricted to road cars running one at a time on a course which does not exceed 800 metres in length.
• Full details of the regulations for Clubcross may be obtained from the MSA at Colnbrook.

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