1. Head Of The Charles ® Regatta Umpire Training 2013 Rules Updates for 2013 Umpire Responsibilities Understanding the Course Special Focus on Safety Rules Review & Penalties Frequently Occurring Situations Written Test Debrief, Q&A and Closing

2. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 What Makes the Head Of The Charles ® Special?  It’s a large (9000 competitor), multi-day Regatta.  For the majority of participating crews, it is the only time during the year that they race on this body of water.  The distinctive twists and turns of the river, its narrowness in spots and the requirement to pass through 6 multi-arch bridges, makes this a “coxswain’s race.”  It can be very difficult to pass or be passed without getting in another boat’s way.  We minimize the potential of interference and collisions during passing situations by:  Seeding boats (limited)  Pacing events  Categorizing rowers and boats 2 I n t r o d u c t i o n

3. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 What’s Different About the HOCR Rules?  The local HOCR rules have been based on:  The USRowing Rules of Rowing Head Race Section.  Penalty statistics through 2012.  The unique features of the Charles River, its bridges and the HOCR race course.  The quality of the umpire corps, and  The diverse quality of participating crews.  Our goals relative to the application of the HOCR Rules:  A safe and fair race.  Zero penalties issued in error, and  Unofficial (adjusted) results posted 15 minutes after the conclusion of each event. 3 I n t r o d u c t i o n

4. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety – The primary goal of all actions and decisions The HOCR ® is concerned with the safety of all competitors and volunteers/umpires on the racecourse and in the warm up and launching areas  Primary responsibility for safety rests with individual crews and athletes  Umpire Responsibilities  Look for crews/athletes in distress- in water and in boat.  If you observe a boat stopped in the racing lane, you must presume that there is athlete in distress. Communicate this information to Emergency by radio.*  Note: Umpires are not first responders- they manage the race and traffic- let Emergency take care of the oarsperson in distress- unless absolutely necessary. 4 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s * See emergency reporting script on slide 23.

5. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 What Safety Enhancements Have Been Made?  12 Safety launches with trained staff, Emergency Situation Observers (ESOs)* will be deployed along the course.  Motors will be running during 1x races.  Quick release moorings will be used.  ESOs will monitor the Travel Lane and Finish Line area.  Boat stoppage in a racing lane is assumed to mean an athlete in distress  At each Umpire station, the Lead will designate one Umpire whose primary responsibility is looking for athletes in distress. (Although all Umpires at the station should be on the alert for emergency situations).  The designated Umpire will follow the Emergency Radio Call-In Protocol (on slide 23) to report athletes in distress. 5 * ESO’s are also referred to as lifeguards.

6. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Fairness – The second goal of your actions and decisions  The only factors determining the outcome of any race should be the skill and abilities of the athletes and crews.  The athletes are depending on you to observe the race, determine the cause of any incidents (interference, buoy violations, traffic pattern violations, etc.), assign the penalty for infractions and to report them with full documentation.  Athletes get the benefit of the doubt.  Passing boats in particular get the benefit of the doubt.  Only report what you see. 6 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

7. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 What Rules Have Been Updated Since Last Year?  In 2013, we amended Rule 10.3. Buoys During Racing: During racing, boats must stay on the Course that is between the orange buoys to port (Boston side) and the green buoys to starboard (Cambridge side). Oar blades may go over the buoys but the hull of the shall must stay inside the buoy line. If a boat takes a buoy on the wrong side of the hull during an event, it will be assessed a 5-second penalty for the first buoy, and a 10 second penalty for any additional buoys passed on the wrong side during the same event. Umpire note: Each station simply will report the number of missed buoys observed. The total time penalty will be calculated by umpire central when all of the reports have been received. 7 I n t r o d u c t i o n

8. Umpire Responsibilities Key responsibilities Logistics Field of view Communication Self-Care Summary

9. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Your Key Responsibilities as an Umpire The primary objective for the umpires is to ensure safety and fairness. To that end we:  Observe the race and any incidents that occur.  Assign penalties, and  Report any findings to Umpire Central. Lead Umpires Only:  Stop a race, if there is immediate and present danger to life and limb and this is the only possible course of action to correct the situation. 9 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

10. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012 Umpire Roles  Assigns responsibilities for all umpires at the station  Conducts station team orientation  Checks all incident forms prior to submission to ensure completeness  Communicates with “Umpire Central” (may be delegated) after each race is finished to report penalties, if any, or help needed (buoys, etc.)  Maintains full staffing at the station  In extreme situations may stop an event, following safety protocol.  Observe incidents in their field of view and assign penalties  Fully document incidents as they occur  Perform all other duties assigned or delegated by the lead umpire 10 : Lead Umpire (1/Station)Station Umpire Note: Umpire at the Start has a special responsibility... Calling umpire central after the last boat in an event clears the railroad bridge. R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s Umpire Training 2013

11. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Station Process Goal: To get a full view of developing situations to make best determination vs. just looking for incidents as they happen. The process is to follow situations from entry into station’s field of view through exit.  Lead Umpire at the station assigns and manages teams (1 or 2 Umps) who view situations from start of station to end of station or the conclusion of the situation.  Lead Umpire scans an “all station view” and assigns teams to a specific situation on rotating /availability basis.  Team follows the situation to completion or abandonment and writes up Incident Report form. This must happen immediately or data is lost.  If activity demands, the Lead will finish filling in the Form and the team will be reassigned to new situation. 11 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

12. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Field of View  Every umpire station has been positioned in a way to afford the best field of view for the part of the course for which that station is responsible.  Make certain that you have an unimpeded view of the course.  Your primary focus should be in the direction of oncoming racing crews, which is where situations that you will be expected to describe develop (unless explicitly instructed otherwise).  Review the course map to understand your area of coverage, and the areas assigned to the umpires who are both up- and down-course of your position.  Lead Umpires: Call both up- and down-course stations to confirm station boundaries at the beginning of the day.  Many stations have Umpire Buoys, 18” high, marking their sections of the course- see penalty form for approximate location. 12 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

13. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Communication  Prior to the start of your day, work out responsibilities at the umpire station with the Lead Umpire.  Prepare incident reports immediately after the incident’s resolution to ensure accurate recall.  Initiate reports to Umpire Central (by phone) after each event has passed your station. The Lead Umpire will assign this duty. Do not wait for Umpire Central to call the station.  Keep your telephone and radio on at all times and for Emergency reporting, always use the radio (Channel 1).  Be prepared to describe reported incidents if you do receive a call from Umpire Central (following your initial report).  Do not engage in conversations with anyone other than your partner and Umpire Central regarding incidents during the race.  Only Lead Umpires should communicate with competitors (or those in the travel lane) and only when absolutely necessary for safety 13 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

14. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 What’s Expected of Every Umpire – Logistics  Attend training and complete test (optional for those who have completed both in previous years).  Register Friday, and/or Saturday, at the required time, to get your gear.  Make certain you have all the gear required to do your job (regatta schedule, copy of rules, materials for recording incidents, telephone, list of important phone numbers, pens/pencils, appropriate clothing for weather conditions, megaphone (emergencies only), binoculars, etc.).  Show up on time at your station- 30 minutes before race time.  Return your gear (Saturday and Sunday to CBC). 14 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

15. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Self-Care  Dress properly for a long time outside, with changing conditions  Layers  Hats and gloves  Raingear  Comfortable shoes (waterproof and warm)  Be prepared for the conditions  Sunglasses (for glare)  Sunscreen  Hand / foot warmers  Warm, wind-proof outer layers  Ballpoint pens (run less in rain)  Clipboard 15 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

16. Special Focus on Safety The HOCR ® is the most safety-conscious regatta in the world, committed to continuous improvement in safety planning and outcomes year after year. What follows is the current protocol.

17. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety - Objective The goals: To quickly recognize a problem and deliver the fastest, most reliable and highest quality response to an incident. Target = 90 seconds or less to respond once situation is recognized. This requires that every umpire, dockmaster, marshal and race official on the course know and follow the HOCR On- Water Safety Infrastructure Guidelines and Emergency Protocol. 17 On the Water Safety

18. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety – New in 2013  12 boats, with trained staff and Emergency Situation Observers (ESOs), are deployed throughout the course.  ESOs are responsible for monitoring the Travel Lane and the Finish Line area.  Response boats will have motors running during 1x races and will use quick release moorings.  Any boat stopped in a racing lane will be presumed to have an athlete in distress.  Marshal boats in the Basin will assist in monitoring the status (well- being) of athletes, in addition to their other duties. 18 On the Water Safety

19. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety - Logistics at the Umpire Stations Each umpire station will be equipped with:  One radio, supplied by HOCR, with ability to contact Emergency (with repeaters for full course coverage). These radios must be on Channel 1 and must only be used to communicate with Emergency.  Personal mobile phones used to contact Umpire Central (HOCR does not provide these phones).  At least one megaphone and one air horn (marine style).  Two flags (RED to stop race; WHITE to signal all clear for resumption of racing) NOTE: These flags never appear unless the Lead Umpire authorizes their use. 19 On the Water Safety

20. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety Logistics – Emergency Services Along the course we will have:  Twelve fully equipped Emergency launches (with capacity to take on crew needing assistance) plus two DCR boats. Boat locations (marked SL 1 through 12) will be shown on your course map.  Six First Aid locations spaced along the shore (Mag Beach/ Riverside (downstream of RBC), Weld, Reunion Village, CBC, MainTent, Finish) Each station has:  First Aid providers trained in at least Standard First Aid and CPR. (Many trained to higher levels: e.g., National Ski Patrol Outdoor Emergency Care, EMT, Paramedic, Athletic Trainer, Nurse, MD).  First Aid supplies, blankets, water, etc.  Ham Radio operators.  Ability to meet any swimmer pulled from the water at the nearest dock or other appropriate location for evaluation for discharge or further treatment. 20 On the Water Safety

21. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety – Staffing and Roles Critical Safety Roles  Senior Lead Umpires (SLU) - located at three ‘hot spots’ (Corner bridges: Weeks, Anderson, Eliot).  Lead Umpires – Responsible for the response at their station.  Designated station umpire – responsible for calling Emergency and reporting any athlete in distress (e.g. stoppage, capsized boats, etc.)  Emergency Situation Observers – Stationed along the course in motor launches, who are the first responders to any incident.  Emergency (Net Central) – Located offsite (not CBC this year), is the contact point for all emergency radio communication from Umpires.  Umpire Central Leader and Chief Referee – Will monitor the radios and will stop any activity in which they are engaged to respond immediately to an emergency incident. Note: Only SLUs or the Chief Referee will have authority to stop a race in progress. 21 On the Water Safety

22. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Safety Protocol – Part 1  All Incidents are to be reported to Emergency by HOCR Radio (Channel 1), by an Umpire station team member designated by the Lead Umpire  The report must follow the Emergency Protocol (details on the next slide) and include the necessary detail: station location, problem location, boat, bow number, condition of oarsperson- in water/boat, face up/ down, moving/still, boat moving/stopped.  Emergency (Net Central) will dispatch first responders via radio (Ham or HOCR Radio) if necessary.  Emergency is to be in charge of the injured person at the scene, with safety of victims their top priority.  Umpires will direct traffic and manage the race. Umpires are not first responders. 22 On the Water Safety

23. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Safety Protocol – Part 1 Safety Protocol  The Lead Umpire at each station will designate a member of the Umpire team to use the Emergency Radio to notify Emergency directly.  All calls must use the following protocol:  Give Emergency detail in the following order  (a) station location (Number, Station Name and Person Reporting. [Pause for acknowledgement]  (b) problem location (e.g. “looking upstream toward Finish line from Station X, on the Boston (or Cambridge) side, approximately xxx yards from our station...”)  (c) boat type (single, double, quad, four, eight)  (d) bow number(s)  (e) condition of oarsperson(s)- (1) in water/boat, (2) face up/down, (3) moving/still  (f) condition of the boat - moving/stopped/swamped/ overturned 23 R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s

24. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Safety Protocol – Part 2 Lead Umpires are to react in parallel with Part 1. If a race is currently in progress, then the responsible Lead Umpire will:  Provide directive steering guidance as appropriate to on-coming crews and determine independently whether the incident requires stopping the race or additional help, in accordance with applicable safety standards, then  If, in the sole determination of the observing SLU or Chief Referee, the race cannot be safely continued due to an imminent safety threat, they will stop the race.  The Lead Umpire may contact the Umpires at the preceding station to advise them to start directing traffic and slowing crews to avoid the accident scene. 24 On the Water Safety

25. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Safety Protocol- Part 2 (continued) Stopping a Race If, and only if, the Chief Referee or a Senior Lead Umpire instructs Leads at all Stations to stop a race in progress, the following happens:  Lead at each station informs all Umpires at the station that the race is stopped.  The Lead will immediately:  (1) Wave the Red flag signaling that the race has stopped, and  (2) Use the megaphone to inform all crews approaching the station that the race has stopped and that they should cease rowing (“stop - weigh enough - all crews”)  The Lead can delegate one or both of these tasks if necessary 25 On the Water Safety

26. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Safety Protocol – Part 2 (continued) Once a race in progress has been stopped (as confirmed by the Lead Umpire), the Lead will wait until they:  Receive “all clear” condition from the Chief Referee. Once “all clear” has been given, the Lead will:  Give boats the verbal command to continue upstream at half pressure to the Finish Line.  Boats may pull off the course to land at Magazine Beach or Cambridge-side boathouses, but would not be permitted to cross and head downstream prior to reaching the Finish.  Leads will keep boats moving towards the finish so subsequent races may commence. Be alert to traffic jams caused by boats stopped on the course waiting to cross or just dawdling.  Once a race is stopped, it is cancelled. The schedule does not permit a re-row later 26 On the Water Safety

27. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Safety - Special Instructions Provided to Crews (in registration packets)  In the event of an equipment failure (e.g., lost rudder or skeg) a crew should move to the side of the course and stop racing. In this way they avoid being a danger to themselves and to others. These crews should paddle when in no danger of causing collision, and follow instructions of regatta officials.  If a boat capsizes or becomes water-logged, the crew should stay with the boat (as a float) until rescued. Swimming away from the boat creates several more water hazards for following crews. A single swimmer is hard to see.  If a rower is ejected (e.g., by a crab) – the boat must stop as soon as safely possible, and remain with the ejected rower until the athlete is rescued and safe. 27 On the Water Safety

28. Understanding the Course

29. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Course: Three Miles of Bridges and Curves 29 T h e C o u r s e

30. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 The Course: Umpire Stations  Each station is staffed by a crew of at least two umpires (Note: If, during the course of a race, an umpire must leave the station, provide Umpire Central with advance notice, if possible. Please do not leave the station until a replacement arrives).  It is important that each umpire station have an unimpeded view of the race course.  Each station has a unique set of challenges. 30 T h e C o u r s e

31. Rules Review and Penalties Overview Course rules regarding buoys Crossing the race course Traffic violations Interference and Passing Contact and Collisions Conduct Miscellaneous Rules and Violations Consideration of Penalties and Appeals

32. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Rules Interpretation – Impact of Updates  Failure to yield [Rule 10.5 Non-Yield Interference (IN)] remains the most commonly observed offense.  Crews obliged to yield should do so when the overtaking crew is within one (1) boat length, and when passed may have to slow or miss a few strokes to stay safely out of the way, resulting in no penalty for the passing crew. The yield should be completed by the time the overtaking crew is within ½ length.  An IN penalty may be assessed if one crew forces another off the course thereby “interfering” with the aggrieved crews right to row on the course.  Rule 10.6 Severe Collision (IS) is unsafe contact involving blades, boats or bodies (athletes). It can also involve one crew forcing another into a bridge, or off the race course.  An IS penalty can be awarded to either a Passing Boat or a Passee, if warranted.  If one boat intentionally steers into another causing a Severe Collision, a Safety Violation penalty may also be applied.  Note: Not all contact is a Severe Collision. When boats come together and interlock, it will generally not be a penalty situation and will be considered “no fault”. 32 R u l e s R e v i e w

33. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Course Rules – Buoys (Racing Crews)  While racing, boats must stay on the course that is between the orange buoys (Boston side) and the green buoys (Cambridge side: where there are no green buoys, the Cambridge shore marks the course boundary).  Oar blades may go over the buoys but the hull must stay on the course. Each buoy violated by the hull will result in a penalty.  The first missed buoy will result in a 5-second penalty. All subsequent missed buoys will result in 10-second penalties. Umpire Central will compute the total buoy penalties.  Umpires report the number of buoys missed in their station. Umpire Central will compile the results and assign the appropriate time penalty.  A boat being passed may not cut a buoy in the act of yielding without incurring a penalty. 33 R u l e s R e v i e w

34. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Course Rules – Buoys (Travel Lane) Purpose: Alert crews in non-racing lanes to tight areas- specifically the CBC turn and Weeks Bridge  Crews must proceed single file, no power strokes, no stopping, with firm pressure through the areas marked by white buoys  When in the travel lane (either on the way to the start, or returning to a launch site), it is the responsibility of every crew to keep clear of racing crews.  Non-racing crews must keep the hulls of their boats between the white buoys and the shore.  Crews placing their hulls between the white and orange buoys may receive a buoy penalty for each buoy missed if they fail to exit this zone promptly.  If the crew impedes (with hull or blades) with a racing crew or creates an unsafe situation, a more serious penalty such as Interference (IN), Serious Collision (IS) or disqualification may be assessed. See Rule 7.1 Safety. 34 R u l e s R e v i e w

35. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Crossing the Race Course  When crossing the racecourse (either on the way to the start, or returning to a launch site), it is the responsibility of every crew to keep clear of racing crews.  Before attempting to cross the course, a crew must:  Make certain that there is a safe crossing interval between racing crews (typically between events) and,  Wait for a dock official or other personnel assigned to launch sites to indicate that safe crossing is permitted  Any action by a crossing crew that causes a racing crew to either slow down to avoid a collision or to alter course is considered interference. The crew so doing will receive a 60 second penalty (PC) for Poor Crossing which may be reported by starters, dock officials, marshals or umpires.  Lead Umpires can intercede in crossing situations if they believe safety is at risk 35 R u l e s R e v i e w

36. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Traffic Violations  Traffic violations are considered under Rule 7.1, which states that “any boat showing disregard for safety at any time during the weekend (including practice) will be given a 60 second penalty or may be disqualified.” The penalty for such infractions fall under SV – Severe Disregard for Safety.  “Traffic patterns should be observed during practice as well as during races” (Rule 7.2)  Practice traffic patterns and race traffic patterns (including a map of the Charles River basin between the Massachusetts Avenue Bridge and the Starting Line) are illustrated in the 2013 Regatta Rules and Regulations. 36 R u l e s R e v i e w

37. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Passing and Interference When Does Passing Begin and End?  Beginning of the Pass: When passer is within 1 length of open water from stern of the crew about to be passed, and is closing the gap. At this point the passee must yield.  Completion of the Pass: When there is open water (any length) between stern of the passing boat and the bow of the passed boat. The boat being overtaken may have to slow (lighten pressure or miss a few strokes) to allow the Passer to pass safely and without interference in accordance with Rule 12.2(B).  Instructions to Umpires Regarding Interference: Because a passing situation between two boats can change from moment to moment, an umpire should resist the temptation to infer “Non Yield” interference unless they have followed the attempted passing situation over time (not just a "snapshot view") and can clearly ascertain that the boat ahead has shown no willingness to yield even when pressed and that the boat astern is blocked and clearly forced to slow. 37 R u l e s R e v i e w

38. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Passing and Interference  Interference: Violating the Right-of-Way of another competitor, thereby impeding their ability to row a fair race.  Racing boats have the Right-of-Way over non-racing boats  The passing boat has Right-of-Way, as long as the pass can be executed safely  The right to be on the course safely has a higher priority than the right to a particular part of the course (i.e. the Right-of-Way does not supersede the higher responsibility of allowing another boat to safely race on the course). 38 R u l e s R e v i e w

39. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Passing and Interference  Responsibilities of the overtaking boat (Passer)  In passing situations, the overtaking boat has Right-of-Way (on the side of its choice) if a safe pass can be accomplished.  The Passer must allow sufficient room for both its boat and the boat overtaken to stay safely within the racecourse.  If a pass is attempted, and there is not adequate room and time to perform the pass, the overtaking boat should delay the act of passing until it is safe to do so.  The Passer must allow time for the overtaken boat to yield safely; however, if the passing crew moves in front of an overtaken boat, requiring the overtaken boat to slow or miss a few strokes, no penalty is assessed. 39 R u l e s R e v i e w

40. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Passing and Interference Severe Collision Defined  If a pass is attempted, the Passer shall not press the right to overtake to the point of Severe Collision. Rule 10.6.  Note that the rule is entitled Severe Collision, not simply Collision. Judgment is involved in distinguishing one from the other  A Severe Collision involves unsafe contact between some combination of blade(s), boat(s) or bodies (i.e. rower/coxswain).  A Severe Collision can be caused by either a Passer or a Passee.  If a crew causes a severe collision that crew may be assessed a 60- second (IS) Severe Collision time penalty and may face further sanctions under Rule 10.1 – Disregard for Safety. 40 R u l e s R e v i e w

41. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Interference and Passing (Continued)  Responsibilities of the boat being passed:  In passing situations, the boat about to be passed must yield and give suitable room to the passing boat on the side chosen by the passing boat.  Movement to yield must begin when the passing boat is within 1 length of open water (and closing) of the boat directly ahead.  Failure of the boat ahead to yield the line selected by the passing boat is interference, resulting in a 60 second penalty (IN) for Non- Yield.  If a severe collision results from Passee action, the IS (Severe Collision) penalty may be applied.  NOTE: Experience has shown that (IN) penalties are the most common interference violation. 41 R u l e s R e v i e w

42. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Interference and Passing  Penalties – Non Yield by Boat Being (or About to Be) Passed  1st infraction – 60 second penalty  2nd infraction – 120 second penalty  3rd infraction – Disqualification from the regatta  Each station reports only those infractions which it observes. Umpire Central will compile and calculate the results to determine the ultimate penalty applied (e.g. higher penalties for cumulative infractions).  The penalties imposed for interference during passing are severe! For this reason, it is imperative that umpires see incidents as they develop, and clearly understand which boat is the passing boat, and which boat or boats are being passed. 42 R u l e s R e v i e w

43. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Incidental Contact and Avoidance  Blade-to-blade contact is generally not grounds for interference.  Crews experiencing blade-to-blade contact should disengage as soon as possible.  When boats come together and interlock, it will not be considered a penalty situation if there were no specific violations of the racing rules (See 12.1(D)).  Slowing or disadvantageous maneuvering due to excessive caution by a competitor is their choice, but not one that results in a penalty for other crews nearby:  Example: Crews have been observed to cut buoys (voluntarily leave the racecourse) to avoid any contact with a passing crew. Such buoy cuts are not excused. 43 R u l e s R e v i e w

44. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Unsportsmanlike Conduct  Boats or crew members showing a disregard for safety, during a race or practice, will be penalized 60 seconds (SV). If the incident is deemed deliberate and/or blatant by the observing umpire, the boat or crew member may be disqualified.  Use of directed and/or repeated profanity may result in an Unsportsmanlike Conduct penalty of 60 seconds (UC). 44 R u l e s R e v i e w

45. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Miscellaneous Rules and Violations  Boats without bow number cards when crossing the Starting line will receive a 60 second penalty.  Boats starting out of sequence against the orders of the Starter will be disqualified. (The Starter may start boats out of order at his/her discretion).  Boats must finish the race with their coxswains aboard.  Going through the right arch of the BU Railroad Trestle Bridge (closest to the Cambridge shore) or the Lars Andersen Bridge (by Harvard’s Weld Boathouse) or going through any bridge’s left (closest to the Boston shore) arch, will result in a 60-second (AR) penalty in addition to any buoy violations incurred by doing so.  Practicing in the racing lane between the first start and the last finish on a racing day could result in a 60 second penalty. 45 R u l e s R e v i e w

46. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Consideration of Penalties and Appeals Accuracy  When assessing a penalty, are you certain that you saw the incident from beginning to end (particularly true in passing situations)?  Do you understand the specific rules that apply to the situation that you have witnessed?  Can you accurately identify all crews involved?  Was the “victim” clearly and significantly impeded (resulting in material disadvantage)?  Was the incident avoidable?  Bottom Line: The passing boat (Passer) should get the benefit of the doubt when considering the imposition of a penalty Appeals  Crews have the right to appeal any penalty. However the penalty must be filed by Appeals and must be made by a race participant who observed the incident. Coaches can be present and support the appeal.  There is no right to file a protest, only to appeal. 46 R u l e s R e v i e w

47. Frequently Occurring Situations Situations drawn from past Head Of The Charles Regattas. Situations using boat and course replicas Incident Report Form completion

48. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #1 48 x x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B C Which boat gets the penalty?

49. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #1 (Continued) 49 x x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B C Unless you know which is passing, you do not know who is penalized!

50. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #1 (Continued) 50 x x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B C A B C What do you think now? Before After

51. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #1 (Continued) 51 x x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B C A B C Boat C or B gets the penalty? Before After

52. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Reporting Interference – Make a Sketch of the ENTIRE Incident 52 Based on what we’ve just seen, you can understand why this sketch is an inadequate explanation. The events leading up to the incident, and the role of each crew involved must be captured on the incident report (shown later).

53. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #2 53 x x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B C A B C Same situation at the bridge as in #1. But what do you think now? Before After

54. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #2 (Continued) 54 x x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B C A B C B has initiated a “squeeze play” and gets the penalty if either A or C is forced off the race course. (Note that both A and C have yielded) Before After

55. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #3 55 x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish Before After A B A B B is slowing down. Is this interference? 1 Boat Length

56. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #3 (Continued) 56 x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish Before After A B A B Yes, A has failed to yield the shorter line chosen by B. 1 Boat Length

57. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #3 (Revisited) 57 x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B Before After A B In allowing B to pass, the properly yielding boat A had to miss a few strokes. Has B interfered with A? 1 Boat Length A slows after missing two strokes

58. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #3 (Revisited) 58 x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish A B Before After A B No. If A has to miss a few strokes to let B complete a safe pass, this is not interference. 1 Boat Length A slows after missing two strokes

59. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #4 59 x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish Penalties? To Whom?

60. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Classic Interference Incident #5 60 x Out of Bounds Travel Lane Buoy Racing Lane BuoyReturn Arch To the Finish If you’d only seen Stage 3, who would you have penalized?

61. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Sometimes, the Shortest Line is Obvious, But This Can Change Over the Course 61 A B B A To the Finish B chose the starboard side and was given right of way, but now must leave room for A to row until pass is complete (although A now has shortest line) A yields the shortest line (inside of turn) to B

62. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Buoy Cut Incidents Which Occur in Light Traffic Are Easy to Capture and Report 62 In these incidents, there appears to be no interference; therefore, these boats are assessed penalties of their own creation. Note: Each incident must have its own form.

63. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Buoy Cut Incidents Involving Interaction with Other Boats Require More Explanation 63 This incident is more complex. 34 appears to have veered off course when 33 did not yield. The umpire on the BU Bridge has clearly indicated that 34 is the passing boat. What penalty or penalties should be assessed?

64. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 An Understanding of the Whole Incident is Necessary to Ensure a Proper Ruling 64 33 appears to be guilty of interference. However, if 34 chose to row outside the race course to pass 33, 34 might be assessed penalties for buoys missed. If 33 forced 34 off the course in the midst of a safe pass, then no penalty for 34.

65. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 How to Use the Umpire Incident Report Form  Complete one form for each incident – all sections must be completed – at the resolution of each incident. Do not wait until all boats are through the station to write the reports.  Draw a picture of the incident, illustrating the flow (stages) of the event, accurately positioning and labeling each boat. Be sure your report clearly illustrates, explains and supports your penalty (or lack thereof).  Write clearly and concisely. Press firmly.  Make certain that there is no ambiguity about whether a “penalty” or “no penalty” is recommended 65 I n c i d e n t R e p o r t

66. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Completion and Submission of the Incident Report Form  All completed forms are passed to the Lead Umpire who checks that all sections are accurately completed and the report supports the umpire’s decision.  The Lead Umpire calls penalties in to Umpire Central after all of the competitors for each event have cleared the station.  Resolution of differing points of view by umpires at a station:  If there are differing opinions about the incident and/or penalty, the decision of the Lead Umpire is transmitted over phone to Umpire Central.  In the absence of consensus, Incident Reports should document BOTH points of view and be submitted to Umpire Central.  Lead Umpire prepares packet of completed forms for each event (with pictures if appropriate) for cyclist pickup. The Lead Umpire keeps the back copy for his/her records and submits the original and a copy. 66 I n c i d e n t R e p o r t

67. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Determination of Unofficial and Official Results  Based on phone-in incident reporting, Unofficial Adjusted Results are prepared and released by Umpire Central 15 minutes after the end of the event.  Umpire Central reviews all submitted forms to be sure each penalty is clearly explained and the correct penalty is captured. Umpire Central may call umpires to clarify points made in the reports.  Competitors, on reviewing results, have the right of appeal (Rule 11. Appeals).  Jury will process all appeals, make a determination, update Unofficial Results and provide Official Results.  Note: Competitors do not have the right to protest, only the right to appeal. 67 I n c i d e n t R e p o r t

68. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 In the “Heat of Action” Events Things Happen Quickly! What Can You Do?  Anticipate!  Identify developing situations.  The Lead Umpire will assign team members follow.  Note the bow numbers as a situation is setting up.  Track the situation through resolution.  Complete the Incident Report Form immediately after the situation resolves.  Write down (a) participants bow numbers, (b) picture, (c) penalty in that order.  Complete the event and referee information last. 68 I n c i d e n t R e p o r t

69. Umpire 2007 Umpire Training 2012Umpire Training 2013 Exam and Follow Up – A Learning Experience  Operational Details:  30-Minutes to Complete.  Multiple Choice and Fill-in-the-Blanks.  Open Book/Individual Effort.  Individual questions are welcomed, and answers will be shared with all participants.  After the Exam  Notification a few days after test (Answer Key Immediately Available)  Evaluation of Training (Continuous Improvement) 69 W r i t t e n Exam

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