Rule review: DNF Your First Run? You May Still Get a Second Run

One of the questions racers often ask is what happens if they don't finish their first run. The good news is that Masters racing has a provision that may let you take a second run anyway.

Under rule M1283.4 in the Masters Competition Guide, competitors who record a DNF (Did Not Finish), DNS (Did Not Start), or DSQ (Disqualified) in the first run may be permitted to make a second run. You'll start after all the qualified racers in your class have taken their second run, and your time won't count toward the race results or any combined standings. But you still get to take your run, work on what went wrong, and finish out your day on the course.

This Is a Jury Decision

It's important to understand that second runs for DNFs are not guaranteed. We almost always DO let you take a second run. The rule states this is at the discretion of the jury (the Far West Masters officials who are overseeing the race), based on snow conditions and available time. You will get to take a second run unless there are unusual conditions the jury needs to take into consideration.

If the jury determines that second runs won't be available, they'll usually communicate this through an announcement via text on the day of the race, or at the start. Pay attention for announcements!

Why This Matters

For those of us who race for the challenge and the experience as much as for the results, this rule recognizes that getting your run has value even when you won't get points for completing the race. It's one of the ways Masters racing accommodates the reality that we're all here because we love the sport, and nobody wants to drive hours to the mountain only to have their day end after 30 seconds.

That said, please respect the jury's decision if conditions don't allow for it. Their job is to balance giving everyone a good experience while keeping the event running safely and on schedule.

Our ultimate goal is for everyone to have fun and enjoy racing!

The complete U.S. Ski and Snowboard 2026 Masters Competition Guide is available for download here.

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