Royal St.John's Regatta Committee 
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Booking System Rule Change:

As most people are aware there have been issues with the telephone booking system. After discussing this with our provider, and after numerous tests and analysis of the system, it was determined that the issues relate to the number of people calling exceeding the maximum allotment for the systems queue.

As a result of various programs implemented by the Regatta Committee, including the Learn to Row and Learn to Coxswain programs, we have seen an increase in the number of registered crews. As we near the 100 crew threshold we are now in a position of having a large volume of people calling to book boats. We have not seen these volumes for some time. However, when crew numbers have been this high in the past we have had similar issues with the booking system.

To help alleviate the burden on the system we will be using an old rule, that has been unenforced while crew numbers have been lower.

As of Monday, July 16 only one person will be allowed to book for each crew. To enforce this rule if there is a second attempt to book the same crew between noon and 1:00pm that crew will lose their time slot, and will have to hang up and call back. As a result, we suggest crew members organize each day who will be calling in to book for their practice time. This should not only reduce the number of people within the queue, but it should also reduce the actual time it will take to book. An individual will still be able to book for two crews, but the booking rule will still be enforced if one of those crews are already booked.

The Regatta Committee is in the progress of looking at other alternatives to the current system. If any other options exist we will be implementing them for the 2013 rowing season.

If you have any questions contact Chris Neary our Communications Director at:

communications@stjohnsregatta.com

Important Notice to Coxswains and Rowers from the Captain of the Course:

On Time Trials Day there were a couple of issues that resulted in many delays and may lead to disqualifications on Regatta Day if not addressed, which we all want to avoid.

Strapping:

Rule 3:14 in part states: "Foot-board modifications that includes affixed footwear or alternate strapping devises other than the straps/restraints provided, is not permitted"

Rule 3:16 in part states: "The use of any form of tape or such adhesive materials, by participants to modify or to attach to any component of the shells, is not permitted."

Note: There appear to be legitimate issues raised by some crews that new and improved strapping should be considered for future use. The Regatta Committee recognizes these concerns and , in conjunction with the Rules Committee, will determine any future changes after this year's Regatta. The current rule above will apply and be enforced on Regatta Day 2012.

10 minute Rule:

Rule 5:13 in part states:" All crews must be at their respective starting stakes to start their assigned races within (10) ten minutes of the race being called over the loud speaker at the Boathouse."

Note: There is an expectation that we may have over 100 crews this Regatta Day, much more than in previous years, and many of them new crews, which we all are glad to see. But this increases the need for us all to be conscious of the schedule of races and all do our part to keep things on schedule. This is a matter of respect, for not only the organizers, but for your fellow crews and for the general public who will be following your races. Thus the 10 minute rule will be strictly enforced on Regatta Day.

Other Things to Remember:

Crews are asked to practice collecting the toggle at the head of the pond during each spin, in order to be proficient during Regatta Day and to avoid Delays at the start of each race.

The use of profanity during any part of a race by either Coxswains or crew could lead to disciplinary actions.

I would urge you all to make yourself familiar with the rules by visiting our website and if there any questions or points of clarification they should be addressed before Regatta Day.

 It is in everybody's interest, a matter of fairness and equal competition for all participants to adhere to the rules and conduct themselves in a respectful manner. We are all representatives of our sport and the traditions of the Royal St. John's Regatta.

Bob Clarke

Captain of the Course