Be a Volunteer!

So, you're interested in car racing. You must be, or you wouldn't be browsing this web site. 


Why Volunteer?
There are many aspects to being involved with automobile road racing. Driving, crewing, sitting in the stands and watching, or BECOMING A VOLUNTEER RACE OFFICIAL.


Many people become interested in a sport or social activity because a friend, family member or other associate introduced them. On the other hand you may have an interest in something and not know how to go about getting on the "inside." I can tell you that many motorsport volunteers and competitors in the lower mainland have wandered out to River's Edge Road Course (and previously Westwood Motorsport Park) and found themselves involved in a sport and a family that they never expected. 


Amateur road racing is much easier than you can imagine to get caught up in. Many of our drivers, past & present, started coming to the track as spectators, then found themselves track-side, waving flags or acting as the turn communicator, or part of emergency response crews, helping in timing and scoring or communications, or one of many other volunteer positions. From there they moved into the drivers seat and now have a deep gratitude for the volunteers that make it possible for them to compete. Some volunteers have been manning corners or other positions for more than 30 years. If you always wanted to get a little closer to the action there is a place for you. 


A Rewarding Experience
The rewards are not monetary, but they are numerous. The friendships you build can last a lifetime. Our volunteers come in all ages, shapes & sizes. From 16 to 60+, there is a track-side job for everyone. Under 16's can get involved in manning gates, running messages and helping in administrative jobs. From the front gate to the Race Starter, everyone is a volunteer. 


Many Positions Available
Racing is an exciting sport that can be dangerous. We will try at all times to times to minimize the risks to our participants and volunteers. It is your responsibility to always conduct your self in a safe manner. All participants will be required to understand and sign a waver upon entry to the racetrack. Minors will require a minor waiver to be signed by a parent or guardian.

Volunteering at the Rivers Edge is a great way to participate in a high profile sport, meet new friends and open up a avenue for attending major motor sport events world wide.

Volunteer Job Descriptions
 

Flag / Turn Marshal
Working outdoors (rain or shine). The flags are the method of communicating with the drivers while racing. Because volunteers are relatively close to the racing surface, the ability to stay alert and focused is vital to everyone’s safety. Because of the danger under sixteen year olds are not allowed to fill these positions. Knowledge of the racing flags and general competition rules is required. Training will be provided.
 
Communicator
Working outdoors (rain or shine). Communicators keep each turn station in contact with race control by radio. Requirements include being able to speak clearly while under pressure and in a noisy environment. Because of the proximity to the race track, minors are not allowed to fill these positions.
 
Tech crew
All racecars must pass a technical inspection before being allowed to enter the racing surface. A good automotive mechanical knowledge along with knowledge of the general competition regulation is required. Training will be provided.
 
Pace Car Driver
Drives the pace car at the start of each race. Normally an experienced race driver.
 
Emergency
Working outdoors (rain or shine). If you have experience as a firefighter, medical emergency technician or in tow truck operations these can be exciting position to volunteer for. Because of the proximity to the racetrack, minors are not allowed to fill these positions. Includes positions on the crash trucks and tow/recovery trucks
 
Paddock Marshall
Responsible for keeping the paddock clear so racecars can easily and safely travel between their paddock space, pregrid and the racing surface
 
Timing & Scoring
Working in doors. Knowledge of computers, good penmanship comfort with numbers and the ability to work under pressure an asset. Every lap of every car must be recorded during an event.
 
Crowd Control / Pass Control
These are the ambassadors for our sport. They are the people our fans interact with so great hosting skills will be appreciated. Must be firm but polite to keep our fans safe and contribute to their enjoyment of the race day.
 
Track Announcer
If you are comfortable talking to the public this can be a fun position. Knowledge of racing and public address equipment along with a clear voice and good command of the English language an asset
 
Sound Officer
All race cars must not exceed a noise requirement as stated in the rules. The sound officer monitors all cars when on track and informs race control of infarctions.
 
Registration/Data Entry
Computer skills, ability to deal with cash and credit cards, work with the public and operate under pressure. Some of this work can be done from home before race weekend.
 
Driver Services
The go to people when drivers are looking for information such as qualifying times/positions, race results, sound information, race schedules, trophies et.
 
Volunteer Services
The go to people when volunteers are looking for information
 


If you watch racing on TV, take a note next time of all the folks you see flagging. You may notice the different coloured flags and hand signals they use to communicate with drivers and each other. Learning those flags and hand signals is just part of the track marshalls training program that is free for volunteers interested in getting involved at our track.  


Act Now
Interested? Drop us a line and we'll be happy to introduce you to our racing family. Racing events, Marshall training and Race Driver Training start at our Mission facility in March each year. Don't put it off another year, tell your friends, "I'm going racing." 


Email the Sports Car Club of B.C. at volunteers@sccbc.net 
or 
Check out the marshals webpage
www.meta.bc.ca