How to participate in an FMSQ cross-country race?
FMSQ : Over 50 Years of Lasting Passion
The FMSQ, short for the Federation of Trail Motorcyclists of Quebec (Fédération des Motocyclistes de Sentiers du Québec), is a nonprofit institution founded over 50 years ago. It brings together a passionate community of motor sports enthusiasts, whether on two or four wheels, regardless of age or level. The atmosphere is friendly and family-oriented, with riders aged 6 to 77, making this experience a family adventure.
Furthermore, FMSQ is proud to be the most female-represented racing series in Canada.
With over 1400 members, it organizes Cross-Country, Moto, Quad, and E-Bike events across Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick while maintaining a spirit of camaraderie and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you're just starting out in MX or a seasoned pro, FMSQ has something for everyone, encouraging you to push your boundaries both physically and mentally across different climates and terrains.
An Off-Road Adventure
The FMSQ Cross-Country series includes eight rounds spread across eastern Canada. This discipline is a blend of enduro and motocross, taking place on an approximately 12 km loop. The tracks vary, encompassing terrain like forests, hills, mud, rocks, roots, motocross sections, and more. There's something for everyone, whether you prefer tight motocross turns or long stretches of enduro.
Registration and Preparation
Participating in an FMSQ race is simpler than you might think. You can visit the FMSQ-CROSS COUNTRY website's "How to Register" section. If technology isn't your strong suit, don't worry; you can also register on-site the day before or on the race day.
Gear and Technical Preparation
Once parked, participants can head to the FMSQ trailer with their helmet to pick up their transponder, typically priced at $20 and valid for the entire championship. If you prefer in-person registration rather than online, you can sign up at this trailer. Once the transponder is fixed under your visor, participants can return to their vehicles to get ready.
You might be wondering what gear you'll need to participate in MX race ?
For the mandatory equipment, check the FMSQ regulations, but at ADM Sport, we recommend at least:
- Boots.
- Knee protectors.
- Motocross pants .
- Motocross jersey.
- Chest protector.
- Helmet.
- Goggles.
- Tear-Offs (or goggles with roll-off)
- Gloves.
We consider this the best compromise between safety and mobility. Just make sure all protective gear fits properly.
Discover our complete range of Enduro products in our dedicated section.
Once you're geared up, you're ready to go through technical inspection. The FMSQ team ensures the transponder is working properly and affixes your race numbers to your bike and helmet (if they haven't been applied already). You'll also need to stick a colored decal on the back of your helmet, corresponding to your category. This helps to identify your class competitors during the race.
The Start Procedure: A Cross-Country Specialty
The starting procedure is unique to Cross-Country. You line up on a line corresponding to your category. All motorcycles are turned off. When the referee raises the green flag, you must start your motorcycle and get going as quickly as possible. This process might seem complex initially, but by watching other categories, you'll swiftly grasp the technique.
The Race Experience and the Triumphant Finish
At the Sainte-Clotilde-de-Beauce race, an ADM Sport team member had the opportunity to share their insights. They discuss their experience and outline the steps to take to participate in an FMSQ cross-country race. You'll find this in the video at the bottom of the article.
In conclusion, FMSQ offers an incredible opportunity to experience competition up close, whether you're a beginner, amateur, or professional. Don't let preconceptions stop you; dive into the cross-country adventure with FMSQ, an experience you'll never forget.
A shout out to Lassoce Photographies for the fantastic photos featured in our blog. Be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more of their work. You can often catch them at FMSQ races and motocross tracks across Quebec.