The basic idea
EMORC trials usually consist of 12 sections. Each section is laid out with 12 pairs of numbered canes (gates) over awkward terrain, and it is these that determine a competitor's score. Occasionally, blank canes are used to further define the route which competitors are required to take on a particular section. The start is numbered 12, and the other gates are numbered in descending order down to one for the last.
Scoring
To achieve a 'zero' or 'clear', a competitor must successfully negotiate the course without stopping, without touching any of the canes, and without deviating from the section.
If any part of a vehicle touches a cane, the competitors score for that section is the number on that cane. As soon as one cane is touched, the driver ceases to compete on that section. The driver may still attempt to finish the section but the score remains the number on the first cane touched.
If a vehicle stops on a section, the score given is that on the first set of canes not to be reached. If one front hub of a vehicle passes a line between a pair of canes, the whole vehicle is deemed to have passed it, unless the vehicle actually touches that cane.
The rules
Competing vehicles are also required to stay within the confines of the section. To enforce this rule, any vehicle straying off the section, with all four wheels over a straight line drawn between two adjacent sets of canes, will qualify for the score of the cane which it is approaching. At no time should all four wheels of the competing vehicle cross the boundary of the course.
Vehicles with a wheelbase of 94 inches or more may be eligible for one 'shunt' on each section. The number and location of any shunts must be agreed with the Clerk of the Course before the section is attempted. Vehicles taking a shunt must still observe the rules regarding straying from the section.
Drivers and passengers must wear a seatbelt (minimum lap strap). Smoking whilst on the section is banned.
In the event of any dispute, the Clerk of Course (C of C) is God!
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