The world of motorsport marshalling can be rather perplexing for newcomers and sometimes for experienced marshals too! Here we try and answer some of the most frequently asked questions we hear at our events and see in emails and social media messages. Please don't be afraid to ask - there's no such thing as a stupid question...
How do I become a marshal?
The first step is to complete the Registered Marshal Accreditation Course on the Motorsport UK website. This gives you an overview of what a marshal does, together with some basic online training. You are then ready to join other marshals on the bank at Goodwood or any other motor racing venue in the UK.
How do I join Goodwood Marshals Club?
Contact our membership secretary via the Contact Us page of the website.
How do I volunteer for events?
If you are a member of Goodwood Marshals’ Club, a request for volunteers is usually sent by email 2-3 weeks before each event. It is always wise to respond as soon as possible. With about ten days to go, a sign-on declaration is sent to all volunteers to sign and return promptly, followed by final instructions a few days before.
If you volunteer for an event, it is very important that you follow through with that commitment - or inform the Chief Marshal in plenty of time if your circumstances change.
How about the big Goodwood events?
The Members’ Meeting, Festival of Speed and Revival are all organised by the British Automobile Racing Club, who also manage the marshals.
Currently, BARC insist on experienced marshals (Grade One or above) who can commit to the full weekend. GMC marshals who fulfil those criteria should contact the BARC marshals team at the beginning of the year for more details of how to volunteer.
How old do I have to be?
Cadet marshals can start marshalling from the age of 12, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Cadet marshal duties are limited to off-track roles, such as assembly and the finish line. When a cadet marshal reaches the age of 16, they can progress to become a registered marshal and can then be posted on track. A Club Safeguarding Officer is designated for each event. The Club's Safeguarding policy can be found here.
There is no upper age limit to becoming a marshal, although a reasonable level of health and fitness is important. All marshals are required to sign a declaration before each event that they are fit to carry out their duties.
What regulations are there for marshalling?
British motorsport is regulated by Motorsport UK. Our club officers and our marshals are required to read and understand the regulations contained in the Motorsport UK National Competition Rules as well as the Respect Code, which demands a high standard of behaviour from everyone involved in motorsport.
Goodwood Marshals Club is required by Motorsport UK to have its own Safeguarding and Health & Safety policies. All members should make themselves familiar with both.