When preparing for a race of this magnitude, our philosophy is there are no stupid questions. But READ THE RULES before you ask (we’ll know if you didn’t). The most common questions are addressed below.
Do I need to bring a support crew?
500 and 400 mile non-stop solo racers must have at least 2 crew (and we recommend 3+ if your projected finish time is 40+ hours).
2-person teams may self-crew; but we recommend at least one crew person.
4-person teams may self-crew; but again, we recommend at least one or two crew.
Stage racers must have at least 1 crew person; but racers may share crew (rules apply).
Voyagers, Trekkers and Nomads are not allowed to have crew.
Are there awards/prizes?
All Official Finishers receive a finisher medal and finisher jersey.
Medals for overall winners in each division will be designated with a blue ribbon and “1st Place.” In every division/category with more than 5 competitors, medals will be designated Blue, White, Red for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place.
For 500 non-stop Solo and Voyager divisions, a beautiful plaque is given to the top male and female finishers.
Raffle prizes and other awards are handed out at the Monday morning breakfast banquet.
Is Hoodoo 500 a Race Across America Qualifier?
Yes! All non-stop solo 500 mile racers who finish within 48 hours qualify for RAAM. Relay teams are not required to qualify.
Are there qualifying standards for Voyager, Trekker or Nomad?
No. But we highly recommend that you understand the challenge and have some experience with self-supported overnight endurance riding.
All self-supported distances travel through fairly remote areas. You absolutely must be willing to put a rack and bag on your bike, as well as carry a camelbak. You absolutely must be willing to carry everything you could possibly need to make it through a long, dark and cold night (and maybe the better part of the second night).
There is NO SAG SUPPORT for self-supported racers. If you DNF, you must be willing and able to get yourself back to St. George.
What happens if a Voyager, Trekker or Nomad quits racing?
Other than drop bag service and water at manned checkpoints, we provide no other support for Voyagers, Trekkers or Nomads.
While you may get lucky and find a ride with a support crew or an official, you must not plan for that. Please note: No supported rider or official is obligated or expected to provide transportation. You must be willing and able to figure out a way back if you’re unable to secure a ride from someone involved in the race.
May a Voyager, Trekker or Nomad pre-drive the course and leave drop bags for themselves?
Absolutely not. Such action would result in an automatic DQ.
Pre-driving the course and leaving bags would violate the spirit and intention of these divisions, which is to participate as a completely self-sufficient rider, fending for yourself along the way, carrying much of what you need, and really testing yourself against the elements, the road, and all the circumstances that arise during this long and challenging event.