Two-Run Average System

All Bonneville records are the average of two runs. The first run over the existing record speed is the "Qualifying Run" which qualifies the car to make a record run. This two-run system ensures consistency and eliminates flukes or favorable conditions that might occur during a single run.

Qualifying Run and Impound Process

When a vehicle exceeds the existing class record, it completes what's called a qualifying run. All "Qualifiers" must check into the "Impound Area" within one hour of the time stamped on their "Qualifying Time Slip". The Impound Area is supervised by officials who verify each qualified vehicle.

Once qualified cars check into Impound, crews are free to work on their cars and prepare them for their Record Run. However, if for any reason a vehicle is removed from Impound, the record attempt is forfeited and the vehicle must re-qualify.

Record Return Runs

Record Runs are held first thing the next morning. After a vehicle leaves the starting line on a Record Run, any interruption such as spinout or loss of engine power will terminate the Record Run and the vehicle must re-qualify.

Competition Protocol

If there are two competitors from the exact same class in Impound together, it is customary to allow the slower of the two to run first. That way, if they can run fast enough on their Record Run that the two-run average exceeds the previously existing record, they become the new record holder. Then the faster of the two cars from the same class runs. This sporting tradition allows both competitors a fair chance at holding the record, even if only briefly.

Post-Record Verification

After their Record Return Runs, all record-breaking vehicles must again report immediately to the Impound Area where race officials will inspect the vehicle for compliance with body class, engine displacement and technical requirements. This ensures that the vehicle truly meets all the specifications for the class in which it competed.

Official Certification

After this final inspection for compliance with all class rules, the time slips from the Qualifying Run and the Return run are signed off and combined with official paperwork to confirm a new Class Record.

Spectator Experience

Experienced spectators often arrive at sunrise to watch the record runs, which provide some of the most exciting moments at Bonneville events. These early morning runs typically feature the fastest and most competitive vehicles at the meet.