Krista Steele loves to go fast – whether it’s in a U.S. Legends racecar, a go-kart or an ATV. To reach the finish line, she knows you must be safe, which includes properly wearing a helmet.
“Helmet hair is like a badge of honor for being able to do cool stuff,” the Eagle Scout from Troop 331 of Monticello, Ga., says. “When I’m not Scouting, I’m probably racing.”
Krista was one of four winners in last year’s #HelmetHairDontCare contest from Polaris. Polaris, the official ATV provider of Scouting America, wants to showcase riders in this year’s contest, too. To enter the contest, simply submit a photo of yourself with wild helmet hair. Entrants must be ages 14 to 21.
Last year’s other winners included Braedan Swan, Leonardo Mendez and Lindsay Pence.
“As for my experience with the Polaris program, I would say I had an amazing time and I would recommend the program to anyone who wants to get outside for a fun adventure,” Braedan says.
#HelmetHairDontCare
The #HelmetHairDontCare contest is not only fun, but it highlights the importance of wearing a helmet when operating an off-road vehicle (ORV) or all-terrain vehicle (ATV). A helmet protects your head and wearing one is part of the ATV Safety Institute’s 7 Golden Rules for safe riding. These “Golden Rules” include:
- Always wear a Department of Transportation-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves.
- Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law.
- Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV. In the BSA, passengers are never permitted.
- Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
- Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
- Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed. Follow speed limits and trail conditions for which they are meant to operate.
To enter in the contest, complete the entry form and upload your photo. You can also post your photo to your Instagram account using #HelmetHairDontCare. Another way to enter is by taking this quiz on (ATV) safety.
You can enter only once, and entrants must be between 14 and 21 years of age to enter and win. Entrants under 18 must obtain permission from a parent or legal guardian before entering. The contest ends on Aug. 31, at midnight Central Time. The winner will get a prize package of Polaris gear.
Find your ATV adventure
If your Scout is interested in driving ATVs, see if a BSA camp near you offers a safety camp. Through a partnership with the BSA, Polaris, the No. 1 off-road vehicle manufacturer and gold sponsor of the 2023 National Jamboree, provides off-road vehicles, safety equipment and ASI Rider Safety Training at Philmont Scout Ranch, the Summit Bechtel Reserve and select local camps.
For more ATV safety tips, check out these resources:
Polaris Ride Safe program tips
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