2007 MICHELIN CHALLENGE SERIES

RULES & REGULATIONS

Posted January 2, 2007

1.   Purpose

1.1    Michelin Challenge Series

                Venue Development, Inc. (VDI) is the governing body for this event.

1.2 Event Format

The Michelin Challenge Series is a Solo competitive event.  This timed event offers the driver the opportunity to compete against the clock in his/her class.  This is not racing against other drivers and aggressive driving will not be tolerated.

 

1.3 Michelin Challenge Series Event

                 Michelin Challenge Series competitors must have attended the PDS or hold a Competition License.  Transponders are placed in each competitor car to record lap times throughout both days of the event.  Times are utilized to grid cars based on their lap times.  This allows VDI to provide a safer environment to all entrants by minimizing passing.  Rookies will not receive their transponders until the afternoon of day one.

The fastest single lap plus bonus points determines the winner in each class for each 2 day event.  Points are awarded depending on finishing place within each class for all competitors.  Trophies are awarded as described in Section 2.

 

1.4  General Rules

                These Michelin Challenge Series Rules augment the General Rules and Regulations.

2.  Entries

 

2.1 – 2.6

            Refer to General Rules and Regulations.

 

2.7 Awards

Participants may compete for points and trophies, if they so desire and after successful completion of the rookie school. At the sole and absolute discretion of VDI, financial awards/incentives may be offered.

 

2.71 Points Program

            Each car (as opposed to the driver) is placed in a class based on the modifications made to the car for that particular event. Even though VDI representatives will attempt to make a cursory inspection of the participant's car during each event, the owner of the car remains completely responsible for determining and registering the car in its proper classification for that event.

            In the event VDI determines that a car has been entered in an incorrect class, VDI may at its sole and absolute discretion disqualify the results of said car from said event and award no points whatsoever. A copy of the 2007 Class Matrix is available at www.viperdays,com or www.theperformancedrivingschool.com or a hard copy is available from The Performance Driving School office (847-594-8477). Copies are also made available to each participant at each event. We highly suggest you read and understand these rules to avoid any unnecessary disqualification. The most common errors include misclassifications due to tires, engine modifications and safety equipment.  A rules infraction will cost the driver all his points for that event.  Drivers below in finish will move up to fill the voided position and be awarded points accordingly.

 

 

 

 

 

2.72 Event Awards

Within each car class, points are awarded for each separate event. The winning car in each class is that which completes the fastest lap of the event for that class. The event shall award 300, 280, 260, 240, 220, 200 and ten (10) points less per position from there on down.

Sponsor points will be awarded for each sponsor product utilized.  These points will be added to points awarded above to determine the total event points.  Refer to the 2007 Class Matrix for the list of sponsor products eligible for award of bonus points. 
            Trophies are awarded not only to the event winner in each class, but to second and third place finishers in each class as well. The event positions are determined by event points plus awarded sponsor points.  If there is a tie in points the higher finishing position will be awarded to the driver with the lower time.  Trophies might not be available at the event earned due to late entries. No trophies will be given if there are not three cars in the class.

For drivers who participate in three or more events within the region, there is also a Regional Championship with awards determined as described below.

2.73  Regional Awards

            In addition to awards made at each event, there are also regional awards made at the end of each season. VDI has two separate regions: the East and the West.  Regional Championship results will be determined by combining the event point totals from the driver’s best 3 events plus any additional bonus points for participating in greater than 3 regional events.  A driver attending more than three regular season events shall receive 10 bonus points for each event above three. Bonus points are given for total MCS events attended for the season and are not class dependent.

Trophies will be awarded to at least the first three finishers within each class and region.  In the event of a tie, the person who has been to more events will be named the winner.  To qualify for a regional award you must have attended three or more events.

2.74  National Championship Awards

In addition to awards made at each event, and regional trophies, there will be a National Championship for each class at the end of the season.  National Championship results will be determined by combining the event points totals from the driver’s best 3 events (in either region) plus their event point total for Finals plus any additional bonus points for participating in greater than 3 regional events.  A driver may participate in as many events as are scheduled, however, only results from the driver's best three events and Finals will be counted in the National Championship

Trophies will be awarded to at least the first three finishers within each class.  In the event of a tie, the person who has been to more events will be named the winner.  To qualify for the National Championship you must have attended three or more events before the Finals and attend Finals.

 

2.75  National Championship

On October 26-28,2007 VDI will hold its National Championship event at Heartland Park in Kansas. Drivers from each region will be invited to attend. Only those drivers who have attended at least three events within the same class are qualified to win the National Championship within that class. That is to say that the driver must have attended three events while participating in the same class. The national event does not count toward the three-event requirement for either region. 

 

2.76  High Points Winner

The Roy Sjoberg Perpetual Trophy award is presented to the driver who accumulates the highest points total during the season.  All event points, sponsor bonus points and bonus points for attending greater than 3 events are included in this point’s total.  The highest point’s total, regardless of car class, receives this very special award.

 

3.  Challenge Licenses

 

            Refer to General Rules and Regulations.

 

4.  Classifications

 

4.1 Schedule of Classifications           

The 2007 Class Matrix works in conjunction with the rules and describes the various modifications allowed and safety equipment required for competing in the Michelin Challenge Series. 

 

4.15 Changes in Classification

            If a competitor changes classification during the season they will accumulate points in each class.  They will not be combined.  The number of events entered will go towards qualification in Finals. Once an event is completed and awards given, there will be no changing of class.

            If a driver requests that his car be teched in a higher class it is legal, but the car cannot return to a lower class at subsequent events.

 

 

 

4.2 Technical Inspections

            Prior to each event, a VDI technical representative shall review a physical inspection form of each car entered that has been completed by a Viper Tech or qualified shop.  At that time the VDI technical representative shall ask the entrant various questions about the condition of and equipment on the car and verify with the entrant as to which class the car shall be entered in for the Michelin Challenge Series. VDI assumes no responsibility for the car's condition or ability to participate.

 

4.3 Entrant Responsible For Proper Classification

            Even though a VDI technical representative shall physically inspect each car, proper classification of the car is the responsibility of the entrant.  Failure to enter the proper class shall result in immediate disqualification from the event, and no points shall be awarded, regardless of actual finishing place. 

Intentional falsification of any technical inspection forms or other written or verbal representations made to VDI representatives, or attempts to hide, conceal, or otherwise disguise the equipment or modifications made to a car, or the safety equipment required to be in the car or worn by the driver, or any other acts of dishonesty or untruthfulness will not be tolerated, and such car and driver shall be suspended from all further competition for the event.  Depending on the seriousness of the violation, the entrant may be suspended and such suspension may be extended to the remainder of the year, or permanent expulsion from all future events. Any vehicle found to be willfully out of compliance may cause the driver to receive a lifetime suspension or a monetary penalty may be assessed. Further, the driver may be disqualified from that event and total points earned to date may be forfeited.

 

4.35 Falsification of Class

            Any driver who intentional misrepresents his vehicle will be subject to the following:

1.       A fine of $250.00 per infraction will be charged to the driver and payable at that time.  Failure to pay these fines will result in the expulsion from all future events until such fines are paid in full.

2.       Any points accumulated during that event will be forfeited.

No refund will be given if the driver decides not to participate in that event.

 

5.  Wheels and Tires

 

5.1    Wheels

            Wheels are open to driver selection.  Cast/welded stock wheels can only be used with Michelin street tires. 

 

5.2    Tires

            Michelin is the series tire sponsor and therefore all cars in the Michelin Challenge Series will be required to run on approved Michelin tires.  See the 2007 Class Matrix for approved Michelin tires.  The Unlimited class may run Michelin slicks provided by a VDI vendor. If Michelin slicks are not available Hoosier slicks may be utilized. Competition Coupes competing in the Unlimited class may optionally run Hoosier VRL slicks provided by  a VDI vendor.  No other manufacturer’s tires will be allowed to run for points or trophies.

            If a driver uses Michelin Pilot Sport Cups or Michelin slicks the driver must wear a head restraint and 5/6 seat belt system. Roll bars are highly recommended.

 

If the driver prefers other tires and the tire thread wear rating is 100 or less the driver must wear a head restraint and 5/6 seat belt system. Roll bars are highly recommended.

 

6.  Required Safety Equipment

 

These regulations must be strictly followed.  Conformance with these regulations is the entrant's responsibility.  Adherence to these regulations does not imply or guarantee that injury or death will not occur.  The driver, passengers, crewmembers, family members, and spectators agree to participate in each event at their own risk, without recourse to VDI or its representatives.  VDI recommends, regardless of the requirements for each class, that all cars and drivers are equipped with the maximum amount of and highest quality safety equipment available on the market. Review the 2007 Class Matrix as to required safety equipment for each class. No car or driver shall be disqualified from its class as a result of having safety equipment in excess of that required under the Rules.

 

6.1 Driver’s Restraint System

Any modifications to the driver restraint system must also be done to the passenger restraint system.  All cars required to have a 5-point or 6-point system - shall have one, which consists of two minimum 2" lap belts, two minimum 3" shoulder belts, and one minimum 2" anti-submarine belt.  All such systems shall be mounted properly and shall bear such a label dated no more than two years old. If you attend three or more events you are required to install 5/6 points harnesses for safety.  Competition Coupes and SRT/10’s are required to have a 5 or 6 point harness system installed on both seats if a passenger seat is fitted. 

Head restraints are highly recommended for all drivers. 

A head restraint is required for Super Modified and Unlimited classes.

 

6.2 Fire Extinguisher

It is highly recommended that all cars have a fire extinguisher securely mounted inside the car easily within the driver's reach.  The brackets shall be made of metal and be of the quick release type.  The chemicals allowed shall be either (a) Halon 1301 or 1211 two pounds minimum with charge indicator, or (b) Dry chemical (10BC potassium bicarbonate, or 1A10BC multipurpose, ammonium phosphate and barium sulfate or Monnex), two pound minimum with charge indicator.

 

6.3 Clothing

            Long sleeve shirts and long pants are required. Gloves and soft-soled shoes and socks are also required.  Nomex safety wear is highly recommended. Super Modified and Unlimited classes require Nomex gloves, Nomex shoes and a minimum of a 2 layer Nomex driving suit.

 

6.4 Helmet

            Helmets can be open or closed face but must carry a Snell 2000 (or newer) rating and be no more than 5 years old. Helmets have a date of manufacture stamped on the inside. If you have facial hair and are wearing an open face helmet, you must wear a balaclava.

 

7.  On Track Conduct

 

7.1 Spins or Off Track Excursions

Any driver involved in a spin or an off track excursion is required to pull into the hot pits immediately so that the Chief Steward or a VDI representative can perform a safety check and discuss the incident.  The driver will receive a “woodchuck” for each incident.

The first incident shall result in a warning and woodchuck, the second incident in the same run session shall result in expulsion from the rest of that run session (at the discretion of the Chief Steward), and the third incident shall result in expulsion from the event for the rest of that day (at the discretion of the Chief Steward). 

Failure to return to the hot pits immediately after an incident shall result in participant being shown the black flag, if ignored, the result is possible expulsion for the rest of the day, and other penalties discussed elsewhere within the Rules may be imposed.

Upon witnessing reckless or dangerous driving, a VDI representative/Chief Steward may immediately suspend the driving privileges of any entrant for the rest of the run session, the day or the event.  Furthermore, fines of up to $500 may be levied.

 

7.2 Body Contact

Body contact cannot and will not be tolerated.  Any driver who makes contact with another car, during school or Challenge Series, will be a given a 13 month suspension and a following 13 month probation period.  Any driver who is involved in contact may be suspended for 13 months and receive a 13 month probation period.

 

7.3 Crashes

Crashes and rollovers (whether involving one or more drivers) shall be subject to the same procedures as in section 7.2. Additionally the driver may be required to repeat a VDI school and receive a reissued license. Unless the car is on fire or other danger is imminent, the driver involved should stay in the car with seat belts attached and helmet on until the safety crew arrives.

 

7.4 Passing Rules

Passing rules and passing zones shall be established by the Chief Steward and discussed in the drivers meeting.

 

7.5 Pit Lane Rules

Pit lane rules shall be established by the Chief Steward and discussed in the drivers' meeting at each event.  There is a 35 MPH speed limit in the hot pit row at all times and the limit will be discussed at the drivers meeting at each event.

 

7.6 Missing Checkered Flag

            Any driver who misses the checkered flag will NOT be timed for the extra lap.

 

8.  Event Format Details

 

8.1 Event Format

The Performance Driving School is a driving school.  Events will generally commence before the track opens on the first morning and will finish at or around 5PM on the second day.

Rookies are given a combination of classroom and in-car instruction.  Instructors are to ride as a passenger or drive with the student as passenger in the student's vehicle.  Instructors are mandatory until the student has been signed off. To the extent practicable under the circumstances, rookies shall drive in their own run group (Green) while on track. 

Intermediate and advanced drivers have the option to attend advanced classroom instruction, and may, at their discretion, receive in-car instruction.  To the extent practicable under the circumstances, they shall also drive in their own run group(s).

VDI reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to assign drivers to run groups, regardless of the license any such driver holds.   

 

8.2 Rookie (Green) Run Group 

            In the Rookie Group, passing shall generally be restricted to the longer, safer, straight portions of the track. Exact locations will be explained in detail at the drivers meeting.  Responsibility for a safe pass is with the driver making the pass.  The driver being passed is entitled to remain on the correct driving line, and the passing driver must leave the correct line to complete the pass.  Point byes are required. Instructors will have a communication system.  Racing or running close to another participant will not be tolerated and you may be asked to leave with no refund.

 

8.3 Intermediate (Blue) Run Group

The Intermediate Group, depending on the track layout, may have less restrictive passing rules than the Rookie Group. Drivers in this group will generally be more experienced then rookies. Passing may be allowed anywhere, only after a point bye,  except the braking zones and corners.   Depending on the event format, the Intermediate Group may be combined with the Advanced Group.

 

8.4 Advanced (White) Run Group

The Advanced Group, depending on the track layout, may have less restrictive passing rules than the Rookie Group. Drivers in this group will be more experienced then rookies. Passing may be allowed anywhere, only after a point bye, except the braking zones and corners.. Depending on the event format, the Intermediate Group may be combined with the Advanced Group and run with either the Intermediate or the Advanced Group passing rules. 

 

8.5 Racing Prohibited

It is important to note that The Performance Driving School is a school, not a Race event.  Racing is strictly prohibited during all school and Challenge Series sessions!

 

9. Protests

 

            If a driver feels a fellow competitor is not adhering to the rules a protest may be filed.   All protests must be filed and paid before 4 pm on the last day of an event.  As protests need to be well thought out and have sound justification.  The following protest procedure will be enforced:

 

1.       A $400 cash protest fee must be posted with the VDI board, using the official protest form completed as instructed.

2.       The protest form must be completed in detail as to the infraction/infractions that are being contested.

3.       If the protested vehicle is deemed legal, the protested car will get $200 and the balance to VDI.

4.       If the protested vehicle is declared illegal, then the protest fee will be returned to the protester, minus a $50 board evaluation fee.

5.       If a vehicle is deemed illegal, the person being protested has one attempt to challenge the situation before the board and he must also place a $400 fee for his rebuttal.

6.       When reviewing a protest that is contested by the protested, if the board overturns said complaint, the protested will have all points, finish, etc. restored and he/she will be refunded the $400 amount, minus a $50 board evaluation fee.

7.       At the end of the above proceedings, a vehicle that has been deemed illegal will be expelled from the event at which the situation occurred.  If there are multiple occurrences during the year, the board can consider expulsion of the driver.

 

The professionalism of the Michelin Challenge Series requires that this section be added to the rules.  Protests must be taken seriously; frivolous claims are not beneficial to anyone involved.