Since motorsport requires no physical contact, race practice is set to commence at Madras Motor Sports Club

Social distancing is the new norm and face masks, gloves and protective clothing are the new fashion statements. The country has been in COVID-19 lockdown mode since mid March 2020 and even as COVID-19 positive cases have escalated to 2.66 lakh, the country is slowly opening up and unlock 1.0 has come into effect.

The racing season is upon us and in view of this, Madras Motor Sports Club (MMSC) has issued a set of guidelines for racers to resume practice. The Club will be starting the ‘Pay and Practice’ sessions from 14th June 2020. This is particularly so since motorsport does not involve any physical contact. For now, the motorsport activities will be only restricted to practice sessions as any racing events will attract crowd.

MMSC has laid down certain stringent guidelines for racers. For starters, there will be limited slots which will be offered on first-come-first-serve basis. Every racer will have to wear masks at all times when within the premises as has been made mandatory by the Government of India. No participant without a mask will be permitted to enter the Club.

A participant, found to be symptomatic will be required to undergo a medical test and self quarantine in case of positive results. Participants will also have to submit a declaration on their current health situation. Thermal screening will also be done at the entrance to the MMSC itself. These are pre-printed forms that will be available at the entrance and will have to be filled in and signed and handed over to the security personnel.

Every racer will have to carry their own personal belongings such as water bottles, hand sanitizers and other such items and will have to maintain social distancing throughout the session. With limited staff on the premises, racers have been asked to offer full cooperation. Every vehicle entering the MMSC premises will have to be cleaned and sanitized and will have to be parked in designated areas.

Participants have been requested to arrive at the appointed time, not to touch any objects or surfaces, and spitting on the premises is strictly prohibited. MMSC has also made it clear that they would not be responsible for any participant’s vehicle parked within the premises and will also not be responsible for any Government passes etc, which may be required to transport vehicles and personnel to MMRT. More details and guidelines are available on the Facebook page of Madras Motor Sports Club or through concerned authority.