I dont know any real reason for this...
Oh there's a reason. In fact it's actually a rule and it's in the El Mirage Procedures. The EMP clearly states that a record can NOT be set on a rookie run. In fact, no records can not be set if you run out of the rookie line at all. If you run out of the rookie line you're a rookie and if you're a rookie you can not set a record. The point being that as a new driver your focus should be familiarizing yourself with your race vehicle and our operating procedures, not going out and getting in over your head trying to set a record the first time out.
Dan, you and I are on the same page. As far as Bonneville goes, the same thing generally applies. I know for the past couple years that I've been doing the Rookie Orientation I have made it a point to mention that new drivers can NOT qualify for a record on their first run. Truth be told, there are too many new drivers and not enough officiators to really enforce this and I know a couple rookies slipped through and got into impound on their first run last year. Oh well I guess.
My POV is that we have all week to be out there racing. Why the rush? Make your rookie run like you're supposed to, show me that you can receive, understand and follow the directions I give you, and then get back in line and run again. If you exceeded the record the first time out then you should have no problem doing it a second time, right? Also, should someone choose to start cracking down on this and checking for licenses upon arrival at impound after a qualifying run, is it worth getting thrown out over? Not saying that this is guaranteed to happen but depending on the circumstances it could.
So anyways, let's just say that no, you can't qualify for a record on your first run. Thanks Dan.