How to Wave a Checkered Flag

The waving of a checkered flag to signal the end of a race is probably the most iconic image in motor racing. The art of waving the flag comes in finding a fluid, eye catching movement that fills up as much space as possible. A checkered flag should normally have a short pole, with roughly 20 inches available to hold.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the checkered flag pole roughly a hand's width from the bottom of the flag. If it is heavy, hold it two-handed with one hand close to the flag and the other close to the bottom of the pole. Alternatively, use a free second hand to give support to the first hand.

    • 2

      Wave the flag from side to side by moving your hand in a long sideward figure eight shape. Start slowly, to develop a rhythm and pattern which you can maintain. At each end of the figure eight, allow the wrist to turn slightly so that the inside of the flag -- the side closest to you -- faces slightly downward toward the middle point of the figure eight movement. If you are holding the flag right-handed, this will mean that the closed fingers face slightly downward when the flag is out to the right and the back of the hand faces slightly downward when it is out to the left.

    • 3

      Increase the pace of the figure eight shape once a consistent rhythm and path has been established. At this stage, it will become more clear if a two-handed grip is necessary.

    • 4

      Raise and lower the flag so that two figure eight shapes are completed every time the flag is extended in to the air. The raising and lowering should work neatly in to the pattern of the figure of eight and allow a smooth and consistent rhythm to be established.