Coffin Race Throwdown Team Registration

Settle it on Slaughterhouse Lane – Coffin Race Throwdown
Back by popular demand — the Coffin Race Team Throwdown is here! This year, you don’t just race… you throw down.

Register your team and then call out another business, group, or organization to the ultimate showdown on Slaughterhouse Lane. ?

Do you have the speed to smoke your rivals? The spirit to outshine their costumes? The guts to claim bragging rights for the whole year? 

It’s spooky, it’s spirited, and it’s all in good fun — so grab your crew, pick your challengers, and prepare for a throwdown like no other at the Fall Festival Coffin Races!

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!