These days there is a lot more you can offer your potential sponsors than just sticker real estate on your bike.

The GFC. I'm getting pretty tired of hearing that evil little acronym. And just in case you require further clarification, no I'm not referring to the Geelong Football Club, I'm talking about the Global Financial Crisis. Why is this on my mind? Well because it seems to be everyone's magic answer for every finance-related question of late. Why are club memberships so low this year? Because of the GFC. Bike shops aren't doing so well right now? Yeah, 'cause of the GFC. Are you racing next weekend? Nah. Why? GFC. Why can't I get sponsored? GFC!!!

Yes the world economy has taken a beating, and Australia has been "pinched" but overall we were very lucky here and the GFC has become a very convenient covers everything excuse. It is a lot harder for new racers to obtain sponsors than it was just a couple of years ago, as many shop owners have had their confidence shaken by the gloomy world news. They are less inclined to part with their cash to unknown and/or unproven riders.

Will dropping off your glossy 10 page Race Resume change their minds? Unlikely. Truth be told, those printed resumes often end up in the bin, unread, many months after being shoved in the "To Do" pile of the store managers desk. Professional Proposals do still have their place of course, but for the average racer chasing support from their local shops, printed reports have well and truly had their day. Besides, what does the store get out of the deal? A few stickers slapped on your bike and a mumbled thank you in your trophy acceptance speech? The world today demands something much more dynamic. And the answer is right under your nose. Social media sites are easy to use and deliver a unique kind of exposure – one where the audience can interact with the subject immediately, giving real-time results and feedback. You probably already have a Facebook or Twitter account anyway. Now it is just a matter of switching on to the potential it holds.

Even in the absence of sponsors, you can begin promoting yourself and building your profile to gain a strong following – one that store owners will want to get their slice of. For obvious reasons, it makes sense to stick to the most popular sites. More site traffic equals more potential viewers. Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn can all be employed to great effect for even the least tech-savvy among us. If you're confident of your video editing skills, a YouTube channel could be the ultimate self-broadcasting tool. Use these accounts to update your followers of racing results, riding pics, plans, and other race-related updates. Mentioning your sponsors services or products in this way, offers them a more attentive audience than the standard old stickers and thanks. One that is much more likely to convert into referred sales for the sponsor.

But just remember social media is a double-edged sword! Sponsors will be happy to be associated with you and your marketing efforts as long as it is in keeping with the company's delicate corporate image. They will probably cut your support short if they are mixed into your posts along with the rather unsavoury pics of your wild weekend out, or the expletive-rich comments left by your mates. Your best option is to set up a separate account specifically for managing your race image. Set up a separate email account just for that purpose, and link this to your racing profiles.

And the best part of all is that it costs you nothing but a bit of set up time to accomplish all this. In fact, once it is all set up, you could delegate your media releases to a trusted member of your crew such as a parent or a partner, giving you more time on the bike and less behind a keyboard. Another advantage there is that many people are uncomfortable promoting themselves. But a parent or partner will trumpet your successes with pride.

Holden versus Ford, Carlton vs Collingwood, Wallabies vs All Blacks. Down Under, there are plenty of great sporting rivalries. In world of Powersports, Polaris and BRP have fought in North America for over 50 years. An agreement has now been made with the Australian Rally

Championship to bring the battle to Australia with the first of four rounds of the Australian Side by Side Challenge to be held at Calder Park in March 2-4 2012.

Since the 1960's the snowmobiles of both premium brands have been raced against each other. In the 1980's came ATVs (quad bikes), and most recently Side by Side (SxS) vehicles. Polaris are from Minnesota, USA, and across their northern border sits Canadian arch rival, BRP,

makers Can-Am ATVs and SxS.

Since the introduction of the Polaris RZR in 2008, the sport of SxS Racing has exploded in North America, with tens of thousands of Polaris SxS now sold each year. In Australia Polaris RZR owners have been welcomed at events all over the country, from the Outback races such

as Finke Desert Race and Cliffhanger, to KharnaCross and plenty of other events endorsed by CAMS or the Cross Country Drivers Association, not to forget the fact that we had SxS race at our very own 2011 Thumb Pump 300 ATV Festival under Motorcycling Australia.

"One of the key things the ARC SxS Racing will deliver is a CAMS nationally recognised cage spec. From 2012 a Polaris RZR owner will be able to enter a host of different CAMS events with the one spec vehicle" said Neil Anderson, Polaris National Marketing Manager. The CAMS spec cage should then of course be eligible for MA and CCDA events also.

The only permitted vehicles in the Rally Australia events will be the Polaris RZR XP and the Can-Am Commander. Neil also pointed out that this will effectively be a stock class, basically everything is standard apart from the necessary safety changes such as approved racing cage and harnesses. "We are very keen that this not become cheque book racing. As a result, there will be no engine or transmission modifications allowed. Even the alloy wheels must be stock."

Rounds will be held on the following dates

Mar 2-4 Rally Calder Melbourne VIC

Mar 31-April 1 Quit Forest Rally Busselton WA

May 26-27 International Rally Sunshine Coast QLD

Oct 13-14 Coffs Coast Forest Rally NSW

Now is the time to start getting a cage made if you want to compete at the first round, competitors are free to choose their own manufacturer or make it themselves, so long as it complies with CAMS Schedule J.

Sporting and Technical regulations are published at

www.rally.com.au (Competitors – Regulation)

http://www.rally.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&

http://www.rally.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=86&Itemid=100

Supplementary Regulations and Entry information is also

at www.rally.com.au (Events – Rally Calder – Rally Calder

Event Information – Competitor Information)

http://www.rally.com.au/index.php?option=com_c

ontent&view=article&id=1316%3Acompetit

or-information-australian-side-x-side-rallychallenge&

http://www.rally.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1316%3Acompetitor-information-australian-side-x-side-rallychallenge&catid=79&Itemid=199

View the Rally Calder Video

Since 2008, Polaris has introduced a new RANGER RZR model every year and Model Year 2012 will be no different, introducing the new RANGER RZR 570 to the RANGER RZR family. The single-cylinder unit offers a value machine that stays true to the RANGER RZR family promise of being the ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility. "With the success of the RANGER RZR 800, we saw the need for a single –cylinder model at a price point that will allow more customers to enter the Side-by-Side segment." said Peter Harvey – Polaris Australia Country Manager.

At the heart of the RANGER RZR 570 is an all-new ProStar™ 570 single cylinder, DOHC, electronic fuel injected engine. The engine is the second in the ProStar family, made specifi cally for Side-by-Side vehicles, which also includes the ProStar 900 introduced earlier this year in the RANGER RZR XP 900. The ProStar 570 has 650 watts of stator output and features a removable cargo bed fl oor and a wet sump for easy serviceability.

To complement the new engine, Polaris equipped the RANGER RZR 570 with a new transmission that was specifi cally built to optimize the power of the new ProStar engine. Its optimized gear geometry means more power to the ground, less driveline noise and lighter weight. The innovative design, first featured on the RANGER RZR XP 900, features a helical cut final drive with high torque capacity to maximize efficiency.

To tackle rugged terrain, the RANGER RZR 570 features an all-new, ultra smooth Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) with specifi cally-designed geometry that provides 9.5-inches/24.1 centimeters of travel in the rear. The front suspension features Dual A-Arms with 9-inches/22.9- centimeters of suspension travel. Coupling the front and rear suspension with a 77-inch long/195.6-centimeter

wheelbase, pre-load adjustable ZF Sachs Shocks on all four corners and exclusive front and rear anti-sway bars that keep the chassis fl at while cornering, gives the RANGER RZR 570 the ability to soak up anything the trail can throw in its way.

Since the launch of the RANGER RZR 800, Polaris has been the only manufacturer to offer a Sport Side-by-Side capable of squeezing through tight forest trails. The RANGER RZR 570 is also 50 inches/127 centimeters wide, boasting that same advantage, at an entry level price.

Built with the patented design that places the engine behind the seat, the RANGER RZR 570 has a low center of gravity delivering agile, razor-sharp handling. When the terrain gets rough, the vehicle's True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is the easiest-to-use and fastest responding on-demand system. It automatically engages all four wheels when forward traction is needed and it reverts back to twowheel drive automatically when AWD is no longer needed. The system provides easier steering, less wear and tear on driveline components, and maximum power when you need it most.

For comfort, RANGER RZR 570 also sports comfortable ergonomics with tilt steering offering the widest range of motion, adjustable hand rails and seats. Safety features include a Certified Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) and side nets designed for easy in-and-out access. For gear, the unit features a new, rear 300 lb/136 kg capacity, flat cargo box with Lock & Ride® accessory technologyand built-in rack extenders to maximize carrying capacity. Offered in Indy Red, RANGER RZR 570 will be available at Polaris dealerships February 2012.

Phone: 1300 654 142

www.polarisindustries.com.au

The final edition of Dirtcomp for 2011 hits the newsagents shelves this week just in time for some offroad racing and ATV entertainment over the Christmas break. Edition 27 is once again a gigantic 115+ page magazine packed with everything offroad and ATV, including extensive coverage of the Australasian Safari and ATV Nationals at Coolum. This edition also features coverage of the Vic and SA Titles along with the Hyden Ironman from the wheat fields of WA. Pete Wilhelms and Randall Kilner also catch up with enduro specialist Paul Smith and take a close look at his Honda TRX700XX and have a chat about his exciting plans for the next 12 months. While our tech article checks out Shockie Pressures and how to set them on your ATV.

Our coverage of offroading in the dirt also includes comprehensive coverage of the Taupo 1000 in New Zealand, the Teagle Excavations ARB Pines Enduro, the Albins Goondiwindi 400 and many more major state events. There is also a centre spread poster featuring the 2011 AORC Champs, Dave Fellows and Mark Bergamin, along with the eight AORC Class winners. Our team also peels the layers off Anthony Kuhn's Micklefab built Tundra TT and check out Dave Cameron's Supercharged V8 GQ Patrol. Plus we bring you a glimpse of Australia's only Auto entry in the 2012 Dakar, Geoff Olholm's BMW powered 4WD.

We also have the breaking news on the SXS/UTV Class that will fill the Class 6 void, an update on the homologation of the Aussie Offroad Kart Chassis and the new Safari Challenge Class.

For those still looking for a Christmas gift it's not too late to organise a Dirtcomp Magazine subscription - with a Gift Certificate available on request. Just call (07) 3899 6637 or visit our website www.dirtcomp.com.au to subscribe online. All 6 & 12 edition Dirtcomp subscriptions up until December 31st will also go in the draw to win a set of Lightforce Genesis HID Lights, valued at $1152.

Randall

As anyone who is a regular visitor to our site would know 2011 was the 2nd Quad Division victory for South Australian rider John Maragozidis at the Australasian Safari. As may be obvious from his surname, Maragozidis is from Greek heratige and below is an interview he has done for a Greek racing site which the interviews were kind enough to share with us.

What is your relationship with Greece?

My parents were born in Greece and migrated to Australia. My farther lived near Thessaloniki in a small village called Gerakarou. My mum comes from Kastoria. I was born in Australia so I am a Greek Australian and I speak fluent Greek but read and right not so good.

Do you visit often?

I wish! Last time was 1977... but I am planning a trip hopefully soon. Any good cross country races there for quads??

Would you like to participate in a Rally event here in Greece?

Yes please!

What is your relationship with the rally races?

I love rally raid! I have done many navigational rallies here in Australia but really want to do Dakar.

For how many years have you been participating in races generally? And to which ones?

I have been racing for 20 years. Drag racing in the early days then off road, motocross and speedway.

How and why did you decide to take part in quad races?

Since I was a little kid I have always loved trikes and quads. No more trikes so now just quads. I had a slingshot dragster years ago but found that was not very satisfying. 9 seconds and the race is finished. Now the races last hours and that is perfect for me.

For how long have you been driving a quad?

I have been on quads for 14 years now and I still love it!

What are the difficulties in such endurance races?

One race like Australasian Safari is like doing 20 enduro races or 120 motocross races back to back. Your machine must be reliable, you must be physically and mentally tough. You need to be able to repair problems with minimal tools and you need to be able to keep your emotions in check. No acting like a princess out there because nobody there to hear you or care!

What kind of training program do you follow in order to endure a 7-day race?

I do group fitness training at least 3 nights a week, eat mainly organic foods and no sugar, caffeine and chocolate.

How do you prepare your quad for such event?

We check everything over twice. Nut glue all nuts and bolts. Make sure nothing rubs through.

Please share your thoughts and feeling before, during and after the Australasian safari and on your first victory.

Thoughts and feelings before: "Am I really about to do this? Do I have everything I need? Have I filled out the paper work correctly? What if.........?!?!" I am basically in panic mode and stressed about everything.

Thoughts and feeling during: This is a funny one because so much happens during a week of racing. Pure joy from pulling the perfect top gear power slide past a bike, Frustration from watching everyone you just passed pass you because you have to stop and repair, Terror because you just hit a hole WAY too fast and were lucky to get away with it, Anxiety from thinking that your lead could be lost from a small part failing but my main thoughts are that of gratitude. I am so great full to be able to do this event. Any event for that matter.

Thoughts and feelings after: The main feelings are that of achievement and accomplishment. I am happy that it is over but I really do not want it to end. I am having so much fun that I really just want to keep riding.

What has changed for you after your victory? Is it easier now to find sponsors? What is the feedback you got from the people?

Not much has changed. It is a little easier to find sponsors but times are tough for everyone so I rarely ask any more. I still support those that have looked after me. The feed back is great. I hope to inspire people to do a big race like Australasian Safari as it is a life experience.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to keep racing for a long time. We want to develop the quad a little more. It is a tough machine but there are a few little changes we want to make. We are also looking at setting up a support truck for this racing that is a little easier to live with.

Should we expect a Dakar participation from you this year or in the future?

YES! Just need to get enough money together but for sure.

What is your advice to those who are considering to participate in races of such difficulty?

Don't be scared to ask for help. Most desert racers are happy to help. Just have a go.

Where there any scary moments during the australasian safari and what where the circumstances then?

4,500km!.... yes, there were many scary moments! How can there not be! The most scary for me are animals on the track. Kangaroos are huge and they come out of no where. I have had a few friends DNF from Kangaroos. Also scary is when a car passes you and you did not know it was there. That still scares me.

What do you think of the other participants and is there someone you distinguish among them?

The other racers are my friends. We are one big desert racing family and we must look after each other. Most are there to take on the track. Like my crew guy said to me "winning is something, finishing is everything!" The most distinguished racers are the ones who always seem to have a smile on their face, and that is most of them.

Please elaborate on your thoughts and feelings since you started training for the australasian safari, up until you stood at the start line.

For me the biggest part of Safari is the preparation. The many late nights in the workshop cutting, welding, drilling, painting. The hours training and looking after your self. Once I get to the start line it is a huge relief. The riding is the easy and fun part. That is the reward for all that time spent preparing.

Photos from the 2011 Safari courtesy of Justin Hunt Management