Coffin Race Team Registration

RACE COFFIN SPECIFICATIONS:

1. SIZE OF RACE COFFIN. Race Coffin must be a minimum size of 1 foot wide by 5 feet long and a maximum of 4 feet wide by 8 feet long. Overall width includes handlebars for pushing. Race coffins with an overall width beyond 4 feet wide will be disqualified to race.)

2. WHEEL SPECIFICATION. Each Race Coffin must have a minimum of 4 wheels/tires that must be in constant contact with the road surface. Wheels must be within the overall dimensions of the coffin. Casters may be used. For safety and steering ability, wheels or casters may rotate or swivel.

3. STEERING. Steering mechanisms operated from inside or outside of the Race Coffin are prohibited. Ropes for pulling coffins are also prohibited.

4. DESIGN. Race Coffins are encouraged to have a logo, company, personal names, or other types of decorations on sides, top, or inside; however, they may not exceed the maximum width and/or length of the Race Coffin. We encourage you to provide a memorable name for your Race Coffin.

 CREW:

1. The race crew consists of 5 members, four runners and the coffin rider. It is encouraged to have at least one alternate. All crewmembers must be a minimum of 18 years old and must be wearing event wristband given at registration.

2. All Race Coffin riders must wear a helmet during the race. Any additional protective gear is highly recommended for your runners.

3. At least three of the four runners must be in direct and constant contact with the Race Coffin until it has come to a complete and safe stop after crossing the finish line.

COFFIN RACE RULES

     The following rules govern the Main Street Gardnerville (MSG) Coffin Races. All race coffins and participants must meet these regulations.

·       Coffins and participants are subject to inspection before, during, or after the event.

·       Those not meeting the rules — or not having fun — may receive “special recognition” or disqualification.

·       Above all else: HAVE FUN! 

RACE COFFIN SPECIFICATIONS:

1.     SIZE: Minimum 1 ft wide × 5 ft long; maximum 4 ft wide × 8 ft long (overall width includes handlebars). Coffins exceeding 4 ft in width will be disqualified.

2.     WHEELS: Must have at least 4 wheels/tires in constant contact with the road surface. Wheels must fit within coffin dimensions. Casters may be used; wheels/casters may rotate or swivel.

3.     STEERING: No steering mechanisms (inside or outside) or ropes for pulling allowed.

4.     DESIGN: Coffins are encouraged to include names, logos, or decorations, but must remain within size limits. Be creative - and name your coffin!

5.     RACE NUMBER: All coffins must display the Main Street Gardnerville logo & race number (provided at registration). Must be visible on the front and both sides (8.5” × 11)

CREW:

1.     Teams consist of 5 members — four runners and one rider. An alternate is recommended.

2.     Riders must wear helmets. Additional protective gear for runners is strongly encouraged.

3.     At least 3 runners must remain in contact with the coffin until it comes to a safe stop after crossing the finish line.

4.     Teams may not switch participants during or between heats. In case of injury, a race official will determine if an alternate may step in.

RACING RULES:

1.     Check-In: 8:30–9:30 AM at Heritage Park. Entries must pass inspection to qualify.

2.     Waiver: All participants must sign an “Event Indemnification and Release of Liability” form at check-in.

3.     Crew Meeting: 9:30 AM - at least one runner and the rider must attend. Rules, regulations, and coffin presentation procedures will be reviewed.

4.     Presentation of Coffins – Coffin Parade: 10:00 AM – Get Ready to shine! All of your team must be present for a walk down the race alley.  This is your opportunity to win the crowd with your coffin, theme, design, and team costumes. 

5.     Power: Coffins must be pushed by human power only (no ropes, no engines).

6.     Starting Line: No part of the coffin may extend past the line at the start. Officials may order a restart if necessary.

7.     Course Conduct: No items creating safety hazards may be distributed during timed events. 

8.     Control: Teams must maintain safe control of their coffin at all times.

9.     Heats & Finals: Each heat runs with two coffins. The fastest across the finish line wins that heat. Race officials determine final heats and winners based on times.

10.  Sportsmanship: All participants must uphold the highest standards of fairness and family-friendly conduct.

11.  Course Length: Qualifying course ~250 ft; final heats ~225 ft (subject to change).

12.  Ties: In the event of a tie or photo finish, the race will be rerun at the official’s discretion.

Above all else: bring your spirit, your creativity, and have fun!