Exciting News: Introducing Automatic Pacesetter Adjustments!

NASTAR is thrilled to announce the launch of our new Automatic Pacesetter Adjustments process, a groundbreaking feature designed to ensure greater accuracy and fairness in our races. This enhancement is built to refine the core of what makes NASTAR special: the consistency and reliability of our National Standard via Pacesetting.

What Does This Mean for Pacesetters and Racers?

Pacesetters are the backbone of the NASTAR program, setting the Par Times that every racer competes against. To maintain fairness and accuracy, pacesetter handicaps must evolve as individual performance changes. Beginning December 2024, pacesetter handicaps will now be automatically adjusted each month using a system that compares pacesetter-derived Par Times with Virtual Par Times.

How It Works

  1. Data Analysis: Each month, we analyze races where pacesetters have established Par Times, comparing their performance to the independently calculated Virtual Par Time.

  2. Precise Adjustments: The system calculates percentage differences and applies discipline-specific adjustments (GS Coat, Slalom Suit etc.) to ensure accuracy while maintaining fairness.

  3. Regular Updates: Adjustments are performed on the first Monday of each month at Noon EST, December through April. Pacesetters will receive detailed email notifications with updates, and their handicaps will be seamlessly updated in the NASTAR database and software.

This new system builds on NASTAR’s commitment to fairness, ensuring that handicaps accurately reflect a pacesetter's current ability. Whether you're a beginner or an elite racer, this feature guarantees a level playing field for all participants.

Why This Matters

Automatic Pacesetter Adjustments preserve the integrity of the NASTAR Handicap System over time, enhancing every racer’s experience. With this system in place, participants can be confident that their handicaps are accurate and meaningful.

Learn More

For those interested in the technical details behind this exciting update, check out these resources:

This innovation is just one of the many ways we’re enhancing the NASTAR experience for resorts and racers alike. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to improve the program!

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Geoff Elder, NASTAR