A rolling start is one of two modes of initiating a race; the other mode is the
standing start.
There's no need to hire a timing official for rolling starts.
-
Rolling Start: In a rolling start, the vehicles are
already in motion when they cross the start line (DSS). It is a Special
Section start (DSS) without a start referee.
*The actual start time at the DSS (start waypoint) will be
identified automatically by the competitor's GPS. Timing starts at the DSS validation circle entry
point.
-
Standing Start: In a standing start, the vehicles begin
the race from a stationary position at the DSS. Usually with the help of
the start referee.
*Timing begins at the time set by the start referee (GPS position at the DSS is ignored for standing
starts).
-
Finish: in all cases timing ends at the ASS (finish waypoint) validation circle entry
point and is identified automatically by the competitor's GPS (rolling finish).
There are
two types of rolling start on RoadbookRally.com platform:
-
Open Rolling Start: Competitors can begin at any time after the designated "First
Competitor Start Time" of the section. There is no need to set specific start times for competitors
(use rolling start with time window for that). Competitors will
gain access to the roadbook after the "First Competitor Start Time" for the section.
-
Rolling Start with Time Window: Competitors must cross/validate the DSS within the
specified time window. You need to set specific start time windows for competitors using the "Start
List" page in the Event.
Competitors will receive a 60-minute time penalty for crossing/validating the DSS outside their assigned time window. Keep in mind: sometimes the
roadbook will start with a liaison. Sometimes
with the DSS. You have to
plan section/roadbook access/unlock time accordingly.
The Special Section start time window is essentially the time frame within which
competitors must cross the start line (DSS) to officially begin the Special
Section. Here are some points to understand about the Special Section start time
window:
-
Purpose: The start time window serves several purposes. It helps prevent
congestion at the starting line by spreading out the competitors'
departures over a period. This ensures a smoother start to the section
and reduces the likelihood of accidents or bottlenecks.
-
Flexibility: The start time window allows competitors some flexibility
in choosing when they want to start within the designated timeframe.
-
Preparation: Competitors should arrive at the beginning of the section
(roadbook’s first row) well before their designated start time window to
allow for warm-up and any necessary preparations. This ensures that they
are ready to start when their window opens.
-
Enforcement: Event organizers can enforce the start time window.
Competitors who start before or after their designated window may be
subject to penalties or disqualification by the organizer.
Roadbook/track configuration rules:
DSS shouldn't be placed at an intersection or a parking lot or anything like
that. Ideally, the rolling start (DSS) should be located on a straight line/road
to be as accurate as possible. The actual start (DSS) must be at least 300m
distance away from the roadbook starting point. This means you would need to
edit the roadbook so that the roadbook starts with a ~300m
liaison and a bit
later there would be a DSS waypoint, to force the rider to cross it while
driving. Reason: to prevent unintentional start "detections" from competitors
waiting in the start area.
Event
replays for sections with a "rolling start" are available only after the end of the event (to be
fairer for everyone). Replays for sections with a "standing" start are available instantly, but with a
10-minute delay. Event organizers can access replays anytime. Competitors can access their own replays
instantly.
Lean more:
How can competitors access event
roadbooks?
What should be considered
when
designing track/roadbook?