SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/454861
DEALING WITH DESERT TEMPERATURES One of the other safety obstacles that desert racers face, is the fact that most races occur under extreme temperatures. High ambient temperatures combined with heat generated from the vehicles, can increase the chances of heat stress. "It is critical for SCORE racers to inspect their equipment for air circulation," says McConnell. "The use of 'cool suits' using refrigerated water can become life threatening when such systems fail to operate. Forced-air cooled suits are always preferable to a suit constructed of non breathable fabric as well as the use of a water-cooled undershirt." Because evaporation of sweat is important to avoid heat stress, McConnell stresses the importance for racers to wear the proper apparel. Again desert racing proves to be difficult because racers experience extremely high temperatures during the day, and cold temperatures at night. So wearing breathable, fire- retardant clothing is essential, and can be augmented with a fire- retardant jacket for use when the temperature drops. "These types of garments have shown during real-life tests in racing (Dakar rally with Luc Alphand) to lower pulse speed in significant amounts, SHOES TECHNICAL DATA Desert racing requires a special fireproof racing shoe that has additional vibration absorbing materials to improve comfort. These SCORE Baja 1000 racing shoes were designed with an EVA shock- absorbing heel that provides anti-vibration characteristics to reduce driver fatigue. HELMET TECHNICAL DATA The Stand 21 IVOS Baja helmet is one of the many innovations that have come from Stand 21's involvement in desert racing. The IVOS Baja Helmet seals against dust and provides clean air from a forced air intake system. Made from carbon fiber, the helmet is lightweight to reduce driver fatigue and features a 3mm polycarbonate visor that has been fire and impact tested. 048 SCORE JOURNAL