SPECTATOR INFORMATION

Rallycross events are open to spectators, friends and family of competitors! If you have been wanting to see what rallycross is all about, here’s what you need to know about coming to watch a race.

Plan Ahead: Location, Venue and Weather

Before attending a race, be sure to check out the event page on our website. This page will outline the location, schedule and any venue-specific details you need to know. It is also important to plan for the weather since rallycross is held outdoors. Whether it’s hot, cold, rainy or windy, a huge key to having a fun day is preparing for being out in the elements. Read on for a packing list to help with that step.

Arriving at the Venue: Waiver, Cost and Parking

When you get to the venue, you will sign a waiver and pay a gate fee, if that particular venue charges one. For example, our venues in Lind, WA and Albany, OR charge a $10 gate fee to everyone upon entrance. Not every venue charges a gate fee so before you head to the event, check out the event page. We will always list any relevant fees there.

Once you have handled the administrative things, you will usually be given a wristband to wear for the duration of the event and directed to the parking area. Maximum speed is 10 mph at all of our venues. Please drive carefully to keep everyone safe.

What to Expect

Every venue is different but there are a few things you can expect at most races:

  • Restrooms are available onsite (but they’re usually outhouses!)

  • There are no food vendors or concessions except for events at the Lind Lions Club Arena and at Rallycross Fest.

  • Some venues have bleachers but you should pack chairs.

Our best advice is to pack anything you may need to enjoy the day. Some essentials we reccommend:

  • Bottles of water - pack more than you think you’ll need

  • Snacks

  • Lunch

  • For cold and rainy days, pack warm hats, gloves, extra socks and shoes

  • For hot days, pack a sun hat and sunscreen

  • No matter the season, wear layers. The days in the PNW start out chilly and can change drastically over time.

  • Regardless of the forecast, pack a rain coat and umbrella. You will need it more often than your weather app says.

Ride Alongs

Yep, you read that right! You can ride along with drivers during the parade lap and competition as long as you are older than 12 years of age. Passengers must wear a helmet that meets the requirements in our rules. We have a few helmets to loan out but you are much better off bringing your own, if you have one.

If you want to find a driver who is willing to take a passenger, just ask! You can ask the drivers or ask someone on the NWRA staff to help you out. Some drivers love having passengers and some don’t so just find out. No one will mind you asking!

Other Helpful Tips

  • If you are wondering when to show up, check out the event schedule and look for the race sessions or run group time slots. Those are the hours where racing will be happening.

  • Rallycross schedules are tentative! We always start at the scheduled time then the event may run a little ahead or behind schedule. Usually +/- 30 minutes. So keep that in mind when you’re planning your day and be flexible.

  • Don’t be shy about talking to the drivers! If you want to ask a question about their car or how they got started racing, go for it. This is a supportive group and we are always happy to answer questions. Just be respectful if they need to focus on getting ready or working on their car.

Safety Rules, Requirements and Spectator Conduct

  • Follow any posted signs and stay within designated areas when at a race. As a spectator, you are not permitted to be within 50 feet of the track.

  • The most important thing to remember is that you are representing the sport and NWRA when you come to an event. Please be respectful of all people so that we can continue to do what we love.

  • Rallycross events are family friendly - no drinking, drug use or rowdy behavior.

  • Be respectful and supportive of your fellow spectators and competitors. This is our ‘don’t be a jerk’ rule. We have a zero tolerance rule for disrespect, hate, bullying, discrimination, etc.

  • Dogs and cats are welcome. They must be on leashes at all times and you must pick up after them. Note: Some pets do not tolerate being around loud cars or crowds well. Weather can also create more extreme circumstances for your pet whether they are outside with you or left in the car. Please keep in mind your pet’s needs before bringing them along.

  • Obey the speed limit on your way to and from NWRA events. The local authorities always know when we have races!

  • Support local businesses! NWRA events are a great source of income for businesses like hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and stores. We love it when our community support the communities where we race as a way of saying thank you for having us.

Don’t be Shy

If you don’t know something, just ask! Our staff and competitors are friendly and they want you there, we promise. You can always send us an email if you want to know more. Just know that we’re slower to respond during race week.

We hope to see you at an event!