ASK THE MXPERTS: (01/14/10)

Dear MXA,
    On TV I noticed that the AMA Pro riders ignore the yellow flag. I’ve seen every star blow by other riders when the yellow flag is out. I thought it was against the rules to pass another rider when the yellow flag is out.

    In AMA Pro racing passing is allowed under the yellow flag. The wording from section 5.15 (b) of the AMA rule book says:
    1. Yellow Flag:
    a. Stationary Yellow Flag: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation on or near the track.
    ? Passing is allowed.
    ? Exercise caution.
    b. Waving Yellow Flag: Indicates serious hazard on or near the track.
    ? Passing is allowed
    ? Proceed with extreme caution.
 
    Your confusion comes from the fact that most local races do not allow passing under the yellow and this is where the rule needs its most stringent enforcement.