Page 22 - Judge Manual 2017

D.14 Child Protection and Rule 69 Misconduct

Guidance on child protection issues and the use of rule 69 with minor children
is provided in Appendix H of the World Sailing Misconduct Guidance. Judges
are strongly advised to study and follow these procedures before beginning any
investigation that might involve child abuse, child protection or bullying. Local
child protection laws will have specific requirements that must be followed
carefully. The Chairman should seek guidance from local authorities, should
such a matter arise. The worst-case scenario is that a race official, however
well-meaning and despite acting in good faith, will interfere with the course of
justice by interviewing a child or investigating a serious complaint in the
incorrect manner.

D.15 Sailing Instructions

As much as possible, sailing instructions for junior regattas should be consistent
across events in matters that are not regatta specific. Regatta specific clauses
include start times, description of marks, racing area, location of notice board
and signals made ashore location. The sailing instructions should be posted on
a website at least one week prior to the event.

It is not in the interest of sailors to receive a multi-page document shortly before
racing begins. Young sailors should not be expected to note the subtle changes
in sailing instructions while preparing for racing.

D.16 Changes to Sailing Instructions (RRS L3)

For junior regattas, it may be appropriate to include the following specific sailing
instruction clauses:

When there is a change to the schedule of races it is recommended that
the change be posted before the end of protest time limit on the day
before the change in schedule is to take effect, so that young sailors can
leave the venue at a reasonable time.

The Start

Include the clause (RRS L11.3) to require boats that have not started to
avoid boats starting.

Penalty System (RRS L14)

It may be appropriate for fleets with inexperienced competitors to turn off
rules

P2.2 and P2.3 and only require a One-Turn or a Two-Turns penalty for
each rule 42 infringement.
Protests and Requests for Redress (RRS L16)

If required by the Class Association or the organizers, require all boats
regardless of length, to display a protest flag when protesting.