The MSA marshals' registration and grading scheme is designed to define a clear structure within the sport and, for those who wish to do so, a progression pathway that recognises experience gained. There has been a registration and grading scheme in place for both Race and Rally marshals for a number of years and following a survey of marshals and organisers at the end of 2004, these current schemes have been reviewed. As a result of which the evolution to also include schemes for Kart and Speed marshals will move forward later in 2008, so that the majority of marshalling roles will be covered by one of these four categories, always accepting that there is a degree of overlap in terms of the general level of marshalling experience across the disciplines as well as specific experience in an individual discipline.

The revised, and eventually sport-wide scheme, will acknowledge the commitment volunteers have, by recognising and logging their attendance at events as well as providing space to record these signatures on their personal record card. To cater for a range of training needs, training days will be focused on both existing upgrade requirements as well as new modules and there will be a section on the card for MSA Trainers to complete to note experiences gained during the training programmes.

If a marshal wishes to maintain a current grade, the maintenance process is very simple - 4 full days marshalling per year and an advisory 1 training day per year but we recommend a minimum of 1 training day every 2 years. Please note that within the revised scheme there is NO minimum or maximum timescales for completion of the criteria for appointment at any individual grade.

Race Marshals
There will be no major changes in grades held or their descriptions for 2007. Changes will be made as Race Marshals upgrade to the new designations during 2008 or when new registration cards are issued in 2009. Race Marshals will receive replacement registration cards every 2 years. (i.e. 2007, 2009)

Kart Marshals
This scheme will commence during 2008 and replacement registration cards will be issued every 2 years from 2009. (i.e. 2009, 2011)

Speed Marshals
This scheme will commence during 2008 and replacement registration cards will be issued every 2 years from 2009. (i.e. 2009, 2011)

Rally Marshals
There have been some changes to the Rally Marshals grades and descriptions and these have been incorporated onto the registration cards renewed from 2008. Rally Marshals will receive replacement registration cards every 2 years. (i.e. 2008, 2010)

Cross Country Marshals
This scheme has been incorporated into the MSA Rally Marshals scheme from 2008. Rally Marshals registration cards will be issued every 2 years from 2008. (i.e. 2008, 2010)

Further information is available from the MSA website forms section www.msauk.org or ask your club's chief Marshal or e-mail us on support@volunteersinmotorsport.co.uk