NZJSBA Rider Eligibility: Runabout Classes and New Racers

The following requirements clarify rider age eligibility, runabout specifications and novice racing requirements. They are intended to align with the IJSBA Competition Rule Book and NZ Maritime Rules, while allowing the Race Director appropriate discretion to manage racing safely and fairly.

1. Minimum Age for Runabout Riders

Riders must be at least 15 years of age to operate a runabout ski.

Riders aged 15 are restricted to naturally aspirated (N/A) runabouts. Riders must be 16 years of age or older to operate a stock forced-induction runabout, including supercharged or turbocharged models.

2. Stock Runabout Eligibility — Riders Aged 16 and Over

Riders aged 16 years or older are eligible to compete on stock runabout skis, including both naturally aspirated and forced-induction models.

This eligibility applies to both new and experienced competitors, subject to novice requirements and the applicable class eligibility rules.

3. Novice Requirements for New Racers

All first-time racers, regardless of age, must commence in Novice class.

New racers should remain in Novice for a full racing year, unless the National Race Director determines that their experience, ability and race craft justify an earlier promotion.

Novice riders aged 15:

• May compete only on naturally aspirated runabouts.
• Must not compete in a race alongside forced-induction runabouts.

Novice riders aged 16 or older may compete on eligible stock forced-induction runabouts, in accordance with the applicable class requirements.

4. Insufficient Entries and Race Director Discretion

Where there are insufficient entries to form a viable class, normally three riders, the Race Director may, at their discretion, combine the smaller class with another appropriate class or run the classes alongside one another.

Where classes are combined, the Race Director may require the smaller or less powerful class to start separately or from the back of the field to maintain safe racing conditions.

Any such decision must consider rider age, ski specifications, relative performance and track safety. All age and eligibility restrictions continue to apply, including the prohibition on 15-year-old novice riders racing alongside forced-induction runabouts.

Combining classes is not an automatic entitlement. The decision remains the responsibility of the Race Director on the day.

5. Buddy System and Supervised Track Time

Every rider who has never raced before should be allocated an experienced buddy or mentor.

The buddy or mentor will provide guidance on race craft, rules and racing procedures, together with general support.

New racers should also receive supervised track time to familiarise themselves with the course, understand racing procedures and develop the skills required to compete safely.