Update: Does Racing in Michigan have a Major "Minor" Problem?

When I wrote the article (“Does Racing in Michigan have a Major “Minor” Problem”) in January, I wondered how long it was going to take for the first track in Michigan to react to the “waiver liabilty” involving racers under the age of eighteen.


The following information was taken directly from the Mottville Speedway Website.

(“Because of a decision of the Michigan Supreme Court and after checking with our legal counsel we must regrettably announce that no one under the age of 18 may drive a race car at the Mottville Speedway.

Should HB4231 or similar legislation be passed by the Michigan Legislature and become law we will change this policy.

But for now no drivers under 18 and be prepared to prove you are 18!”)

While I find this disheartening I can see Mottville Speedway’s point of view. With the rising costs of insurance in all areas of life you can not blame them for their decision.

Track owners, racers and fans will be closely following House Bill 4231 in the upcoming weeks, but I am not sure if it would be valid to racing if it passes.

Looking at House Bill 4231

THE CONTENT OF THE BILL:

House Bill 4231 would add a new section to the Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC) to allow the parent or guardian of a minor to provide a written release before the minor participated in a recreational activity. Under the bill, a "recreational activity" means "active participation in a recreational sport." The release would apply to liability for economic or non economic damages for a personal injury sustained by the minor during the specific recreational sport for which the release was provided. Other provisions of the bill include:

· The release could only be for a recreational sport sponsored or organized by a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization.

· The release could apply to the sponsor or organizer of the recreational activity, or to an individual who was paid or volunteered as a coach or to help conduct the activity, or to both sponsors and volunteers.

· The release would only apply to liability for injury or death resulting solely from the inherent risks of the sport. A release under the bill would not limit the liability for negligence of the subject of the release, or the negligence of the organization's employees or agents, that causes or contributes to the injury or death of the minor.

· The release would have to be in writing.

How the term “ recreational sport sponsored or organized by a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization” is interpreted in this section of the bill could be a whole new set of problems for racetracks in Michigan

I don’t see how this bill will cover racing. As a coach and a volunteer for many nonprofit organizations including little league sports I hope this bill passes. On the other hand owners are in the business to make money, as are many of the drivers. Will youngsters have to race without receiving any cash rewards? Would the track have to set up an additional non-profit section within their track to accommodate their young drivers?

Stay tuned!

Jones and Garvey Results From South Alabama Speedway

Erik Jones continues to draw attention to his driving talents. The 14-year-old driver from Byron qualified and started the Rattler 100 in the third position. By lap 28 Jones had made his way by southern hot shoe Augie Grill to take the lead. Jones held the point until lap 46 when Bubba Pollard finally got underneath him to take the lead. Jones continued to run strong in the top five battling the likes of Chase Elliot among others. On lap 63 things turned sour for Jones as a broken oil cooler line ended his evening in the pits. Jones would end up in 21st place unofficially. NASCAR driver Bill Elliott's son Chase was the winner of the event

Former Muskegon resident Mike Garvey suffered a double dose of bad luck as he was involved in a lap 19 crash of the Rattler 250 Super Late Model event that resulted in a 25th place finish. He was unable to finish the event that was won by Grant Effinger.

In the Pro Late Model event Garvey made it into the top five only to see him head to the pits with troubles right after Jones’ demise. Garvey would be credited with an unofficial 19th place finish.

Look for both drivers to make headlines throughout the 2011 season. Jones is the new kid on the block and is showing he has the ability to run up front while the veteran Garvey still has some tricks up his sleeve and competitive fire still burning.

Drivers Wanted: Four Cylinder racing at the Delta Plex

If you have a four cylinder race car ready to roll, get an early start at the Delta Plex.

Racing action will take place on Saturday March 26th.  Front wheel drive 4 cylinders with roll cage on street tires are the main rules of emphasis. No racing tires will be allowed.  Drivers will race on the concrete floor. Coke syrup is applied for added traction. There is a $25 registration fee.

Any questions regarding rules or entry should contact Jack Gritter at jack@arenaracinggr.com.