Nordic Ski Racing Protocol and Rules

Transcription

1 Nordic Ski Racing Protocol and Rules, Not an Official Rule Book for Review Only

2 Nordic Ski Racing Protocol and Rules RULE 1 Cross Country Courses, Course Homologation, Course Preparations, Stadium 1-1 Course Measurement Description Of Cross Country Courses The Homologation Preparation of the Course Marking the Course Refreshment Stations Course Protection The Cross-Country Stadium.. 10 RULE 2 Organization & OFFICIALS 2-1 Cross Country Competition Organizers Cross Country Competition Officials The Jury and its Duties The Role of the Technical Delegate (TD) Reimbursement of Expenses MSHSL Race Director, Technical Advisor and Event Manager Team Leaders' Meeting..23 RULE 3 Medical & Safety 3-1 MSHSL Medical Rules & Procedures Medical Officer..24 RULE 4 Cold Weather Precautions 4-1 Cold Weather Precautions 24 RULE 5 Disqualifications, Protests & Appeals Cancellation Procedures 5-1 Sanctions Disqualification Coaches Interference Protests Appeals Cancellation Procedure..27 1

3 RULE 6 Technique Definitions 6-1 Technique Definitions 28 RULE 7 Competition Equipment 7-1 Cross Country Racing Skis Cross Country Racing Bindings Cross Country Racing Boots Cross Country Racing Poles Equipment Failure / Changing Equipment 31 RULE 8 Uniforms 8-1 Competition Uniforms Apparel worn during Awards. 32 Rule 9 MSHSL Nordic Ski Racing State Tournament, Section Meet Contestants, and Qualifiers 9-1 Basic Regulations State Tournament Year & Dates Organizers of MSHSL State Tournaments Applications for a MSHSL State Tournament Program Events, Disciplines, Daily Program Number of Participants Sectional Tournament Control by Technical Delegates and MSHSL Officials to State Tournament Doping Control Awards Award Ceremonies Finances Television Information and General Report to the MSHSL Special Regulations RULE 10 The Race, Entries, Ski Marking, Training on the Course 10-1 Requirements of the Competitors Official Entries

4 10-3 Receiving Official Entry Information Methods of Grouping Entering Reserves and Late Entries Draw - Creating the Start List Start Numbers 40 RULE 11 Training On and Inspection of the Course, Competitors During the Competition, Officials During the Competitions, Ski Marking 11-1 Training and Inspection of the Course Competitors During the Competition Officials and Others during the Competition Marking of Skis. 42 RULE 12 Starts, Timing, Finish, Scoring and Results 12-1 Starts Timing Finish Calculations of Results Publication of Results 47 RULE 13 Popular Cross Country Competitions 13-1 Definition of Popular Cross-Country Competitions (PCCC) Entries and Competitors Information Jury The Course Control 52 RULE 14 Relay Competitions 14-1 Organization Technical Facilities and Preparations The Course Relay Exchange Colors The Competition and the Competitors Timekeeping and Results

5 14-8 Disqualification..56 RULE 15 TD and Jury Operational Guidelines and Procedures for Sprint Competitions 15-1 Behavior of the Competitor Overtaking Penalties for Infractions of Fair Play Advancement of a Competitor to the Next Round: Jury Decisions Operational Procedures for Sprint Competitions...58 APPENDIX A.. 59 APPENDIX B

6 RULE 1 Cross Country Courses, Course Homologation, Course Preparations, Stadium 1-1 Course Measurement Courses - should be measured accurately using a surveyor_s tape or calibrated wheel. Distances shall be recorded to the nearest.01 km (10 meters) and posted. When a 5 km distances is called for a course should be a close as possible to 5.00 km, and should fall between 4.50 and 5.50 km. In all cases, accurate distances should be posted. When possible, signs located at 1-km intervals should mark the distance skied. 1-2 Description of the Cross Country Competition Courses Fundamental Characteristics - Cross-Country courses must be laid out so that they provide a technical, tactical and physical test of the competitors' qualifications. The degree of difficulty should be in accordance with the level of the competition. The course should be laid out as naturally as possible to avoid any monotony, with rolling undulating sections, climbs, and downhill sections. Where possible, the course should be laid out through woodland. Rhythm should not be broken by too many sharp changes in direction or steep climbs. The downhill sections must be laid out so that they create a challenge to the competitors. At the same time it should be possible to ski the course even under fast conditions In principal, the Cross-Country course should consist of: - One-third up hills defined as climbs with a gradient between 9% (1:11) and 18% (1:5.5) with height differences over 10 meters plus some short climbs steeper than 18% - One-third undulating, rolling terrain, utilizing all terrain features with short climbs and down-hills (with height differences of 1-9 meters). - One-third varied down-hills, demanding versatile downhill techniques A ski glide testing area - with testing tracks for all participating teams must be located close to the stadium. It should be close to the team wax cabins and warm up track. The testing tracks must be prepared to the same standard as the competition tracks A separate track - along the side of the competition course should be available for officials and spectators. 5

7 1-3 The Homologation Norms for Courses Height Difference (HD) The difference in height (HD) between the lowest and highest points of a competition course may not exceed: km 30 m 2,5 km 50 m 3,3 km 65 m 5 km 100 m 7.5 km 125 m 10 km 150 m Maximum Climb (MC) The difference in height of a single climb (PHD) must not exceed these limits but can be interrupted by a section of undulating terrain that does not exceed 200 m in length or a down hill that does not exceed 10 m. PHD km 0-30 m 2,5 km 50 m 3,3 km 50 m 5 km 50 m 7.5 km 65 m 10 km + 80 m Total Climb (TC) The total climb (TC) should be within: km 0-60 m 2,5 km m 3,3 km m 5 km m 7.5 km m 10 km m Norms for Course Profiles Description of Up-hills The up-hill is defined by the Partial Height Difference (PHD). PHD is the height difference from the lowest to the highest point of the Uphill. Additional description of the up-hill is given by the Partial Climb (PC). PC is the total climb of the Uphill. Sum of all PCs is the Total Climb (TC) of the course. A = Major Up-hills PHD > 30 m, gradient 9-18 %, normally broken with some short undulating sections less than 200 meters in length or a down hill that does not exceed 10 m. PHD. B = Short Up-hills 6

8 10 m < PHD < 29 m, gradient 9-18 % C = Steep Up-hills PC < 10 m, gradient > 18 % Table for up-hills Guidelines for up-hill design: - major up-hills (A climbs) should be interrupted by short sections of undulating terrain and have an average gradient of 6 to 12% - short up-hills (B climbs) can be interrupted % of TC is from the PCs on major climbs (A) % of TC is from the PCs on short uphills (B) % of TC is from the PCs on undulating terrain and steep up-hills not included in A and/or B climbs Description of undulating terrain: - a combination of flat and rolling terrain utilizing all features with short climbs and down-hills - gradient < 9 % - climbs < 10 m HD with gradient > 9 % can be included Guidelines for planning a competition distance: The Cross-Country competition may be planned using one or more laps. Example for planning a 5 km competition distance: a) 5 km course, use the 5 km course table b) 2.5 km course twice for a 5 km course, use the 2.5 km course table c) 1.66 km course three times for a 5 km course, use the 1.66 km course table 1-4 Preparation of the Course Pre-Season Preparation Rocks, stones, roots, stumps, brush and similar obstacles should be removed. The courses must be prepared before the winter so that they can be raced even with very little snow. Sections of the course that have drainage problems must be corrected. The summer preparations should be of a standard, which allows for carrying out of competitions with approximately 30 cm of snow. Special attention must be given to downhill sections and the need for banking the curves. Tree limbs should not over hang the course unless they are more than 3 meters above snow level General Preparation for the competition The course should be completely prepared with mechanical equipment. If heavy machines are used, they should follow the original configuration of the ground as 7

9 much as possible in order to preserve the undulations of the terrain The course must be prepared to the recommended width according to the format of the competition. The course must be prepared so that competitors can ski and pass unobstructed. On slopes where the trails traverse, they must be wide enough to allow for good preparation The course must be completely prepared before the official training, correctly marked and with the kilometer signs in place. The testing tracks should have the same preparation as the competition course The same conditions must be ensured for all competitors during the competition. If it is snowing or blowing hard, a sufficient number of qualified forerunners and/or course preparation equipment must be available and utilized in order to maintain constant conditions. This can also include cooperation between the organizer and coaches from the participating schools in order to utilize qualified forerunners. An action plan has to be prepared All use of artificial means in order to improve the glide on the snow is forbidden. In special cases use of chemicals to preserve a solid surface is allowed. The TD in cooperation with the organizers may use chemicals to ensure a quality competition, by maintaining a suitable snow surface for all competitors Preparation for Classical Technique For individual competitions in classical technique a single track should be set along the ideal skiing line of the competition course. The course should be a width of least 4 meters. The track is normally set in the middle of the course except through curves. In curves there should only be set track where the skis can glide unrestrained in the set track. Where the curves are too sharp and the speed is considered to be too high to stay in the track, the track should be removed. To decide the proper course preparation and track setting, the best competitors and highest possible speed must be taken into consideration. In curves the track is to be set close to the fence to avoid the possibility to ski between the track and the fence The ski tracks must be prepared so that ski control and gliding are possible without a lateral braking effect by any parts of the bindings. The two tracks should be set cm apart, measured from the middle of each track. The depth of the track should be 2-5 cm, even in hard or frozen snow Where two tracks are used, they should be meter apart measured from the middle of each pair of tracks. The course width should be a width of at least 6 meters The last straight 100 m will be the finish zone. The beginning of this zone must be 8

10 clearly marked with a colored line. This zone is normally separated into 3 corridors with set tracks. They must be clearly marked and highly visible but not interfering with the skis Preparation for Free Technique For individual competitions in free technique the course must be well packed for a width of at least 4 meters. On downhill sections where the tracks are set they must follow the ideal line of the course The last straight 100 m will be the finish zone. The beginning of this zone must be clearly marked with a colored line. This zone is a minimum of 9 meters wide and is separated into 3 corridors that must be clearly marked and highly visible but not interfering with the skis Preparation for Pursuit Competition For Pursuit competitions the course must be well-packed for a width of at least 6 meters. The start area must be organized using 2 5 start lanes. The width of each lane must be a minimum of 2 meters, However a width of 3 meters is highly recommended Preparation for Mass Start Competitions The Mass Start should have 100 meters of parallel tracks where the competitors are forbidden to leave their tracks. Then there will be a zone where the course converges into a course width allowing three competitors to ski side by side without interference over major parts of the course. There must be no factors along the course that cause congestion Preparation for Sprint Competitions 1-5 Marking the Course Marking of the course must be so clear that the competitor is never in doubt where the course goes Kilometer Signs must mark the accumulated distance skied along the course. At the MSHSL State tournament, every kilometer must be marked. Kilometer markers must indicate the distance skied, the name of the event, and the MSHSL logo. At other competitions, this should be done when possible; however, it is compulsory for the last 200 meters Forks and Intersections on the course must be clearly marked by visible signage, and fences must be placed across unused parts of the course. 9

11 1-6 Refreshment Stations Locations Not necessary on course under 20 km in length 1-7 Course Protection At MSHSL State Tournament competitions the courses must be fenced along both sides at all places where spectators can potentially interfere with the competitors. 1.8 The Cross-Country Stadium Stadium Area A Cross-Country stadium has to be prepared for MSHSL State Tournament, with a well-designed start/finish area The stadium arrangement should provide a functional entity divided and controlled as necessary by gates, fences and marked zones. It must be prepared in such a way that: - the competitors may pass through it several times - competitors, officials, media, service people and spectators may reach their respective areas easily - there is enough space to carry out individual starts, pursuit starts, mass starts and relay starts and the finish can be as long as required (article 315) Competitors should be able to reach the following areas, without being disturbed: - the team preparation area (wax cabins) - the ski testing area and the warm-up tracks - ski-marking and equipment control - the storage for warm-up clothing - the start - the through lap or relay exchange (with exit) - the finish - the ski control after the finish line - the immediate care area (tents for the exchange of clothes, refreshments etc.) - the exit Working Conditions Competition officials and Jury members must have proper working conditions. Coaches, officials, media and service people must have proper working zones within the stadium area so that they can work without disturbing the process of start and finish. The entry of these persons to the stadium area must be regulated by accreditations. 10

12 Timekeeping and calculation should be located in a building with a good view of the start and finish With electronic timing the starting gate should be situated on the start line and the photo cells on the finish line. The timekeeping for intermediate lap times should be to the side of the start or finish and the start place should be secured and have a minimum width of 4 meters At MSHSL State Tournament competitions, officials and Jury members must be provided a working room in the immediate vicinity of the stadium A heated room must be provided for the chief medical officer near the stadium Additional Facilities Warm-up tracks must lead to the stadium. Outgoing tracks for competitors, coaches, and officials must be provided along the stadium to the course. The tracks must be fenced off and may only be used with special accreditation In the immediate vicinity of the stadium at MSHSL State tournament an enclosed team preparation area should be installed or available. The areas should be heated and well ventilated Toilets must be installed for competitors near the stadium. They must be easily reached from the stadium Current Information Facilities A notice board showing the air and snow temperature should be located close to the wax cabins and the stadium. These temperatures must be displayed for the following times: two hours before the start, one hour before the start, one-half hour before the start, at the start, one-half hour after the start, one hour after the start Temperature measurements must be taken in the stadium area and at places where extreme temperatures (low points, high points, windy, shady or sunny places) can be expected Notice boards must be used for intermediate times and unofficial results Loudspeakers must be used for announcing the competition and important information MSHSL Recommended Policy on the Cross Country Stadium Purpose and Function of the Cross Country Ski Stadium. A cross country stadium should be prepared for all MSHSL State Tournaments. 11

13 The stadium should provide: - functional start areas and finish areas for the competitors; - maximum visibility and exposure of the athletes to the spectators at the start, the finish, and several times during the competition when the course brings the competitors through the stadium area; - easy access for competitors, officials, media, and service people to their respective areas Specifications, Control, Access Terrain and Dimensions. The stadium should be a large open area without any severe terrain. The areas utilized for the start and finish should be located on a flat or gentle terrain without any side hill slope. The length and width must be adequate for compliance with all technical requirements Control and Markings. Restricted areas of the stadium must be well-controlled. The entry of competitors, coaches, officials, media and service personnel to the stadium and to specific zones within the stadium may be regulated by accreditation. To that end, clearly visible barriers and markings must be used to divide the various functional entities within the stadium, and entrances and exits to each area must be controlled by Stewards. Fences, flags, ribbons and colored paint on the snow should be utilized for purposes of demarcation Competitor Access. Competitors must have easy access to these areas: team preparation areas (warming and ski preparation huts) warm up track-sanitary facilities ski marking and equipment control storage area for warm up clothing start area through lap or relay exchange (with exit) finish area-ski control area immediate care area (clothes, refreshments, etc.) exit Jury members, officials, coaches, media and service people must be provided with specified areas within or adjacent to the stadium which permit them to conduct their business under proper working conditions. They must be able to reach and utilize their respective areas without disrupting the conduct of the competition. These facilities must be provided: - for Jury members and MSHSL officials, a room or protected area within the stadium; - for timekeeping and calculation, a heated building with a good view of the start and finish; - for the Medical Officer, a heated room within or near the stadium; - for coaches, access to all areas accessible to the competitors until the competitor enters the ski marking area, as well as equipment control area at the finish; - for the print and electronic media, areas within the stadium and the athletes, while not permitting them to interfere with the competitors during their immediate 12

14 preparation or during the competition; - for equipment manufacturers and their service personnel, special service areas within the stadium and in the Testing Area. Also, they must be able to rent space adjacent to or in the immediate vicinity of the stadium Warm-up/Service/Testing Tracks. Tracks for warm-up, service, and wax and ski testing should be provided for. All these areas must be controlled must be convenient and fenced off to separate them from the course Warm-up tracks for competitors should be provided within or nearby the stadium. Access from the tracks to the start must be convenient for the competitors Service tracks leading from the stadium to the course should be provided for competitors, coaches, and officials Wax and ski testing areas must be provided nearby the stadium. These areas must be prepared in the same manner as the competition course. Testing areas must remain open until all competitors have started Start Area. The start area consists of those portions of the course and stadium immediately adjoining the starting line. A section of then course should be prepared with a well-designed start/finish area. The start/finish area should be functional; divided and controlled as necessary by gates, fences and marked zones. It should be prepared in such a way that competitors, coaches, officials, members of the media, service people and spectators can reach their respective areas easily and without interference with competitors and that there is adequate space to carry out interval and pursuit starts The Ski Marking Area. In the ski marking area, competitors skis are marked. Competitors may be checked for compliance. A competitor must be able to reach the starting line only by passing through the marking pen, and access to the pen should be controlled. The pen should be of a size which will permit efficient ski marking while a small number of competitors stretch, etc., in the pen prior to the start. Once the competitor's skis have been marked, the competitor may not leave the ski marking pen except to start The Starting Line. For individual interval start competitions, the starting line consists of two vertical posts and a line on the snow. The start may be elevated. When electronic timing is used, the starting gate is situated on the starting line. Ideally, the finish line is an extension of the starting line The Start Zone. The start zone is the first 50m-200m of the course and should consist of gentle terrain with no sharp turns. When a lap course is used, there should be at least 50m of protected track at the start prior to the junction of the lap track and the start track. 13

15 The Finish Area. The finish area includes the final section of the course preceding the finish line or relay-exchange zone, the finish line, and the ski marking control area The Finish Zone. The finish zone is the final 200m of the course, however, this distance may be shortened by the TD and the Chief of Competition. The purpose of the finish zone is to give each competitor the opportunity to finish the competition without being subject to interference from another competitor, and to provide the timers and finish line officials with a clear view of the finish. The finish zone should be as straight as possible and as wide as necessary, without a side hill slope. The start of the finish zone should be marked with flagging, signs and a colored line across the track Finish Lanes. For individual, interval start competitions, there should be at least three finish lanes the entire length of the finish zone, divided by flagging and colored markings. The dividing markings must be clearly visible, but must allow competitors to move from one finish to another without being unduly hindered Classical Technique Finish Lanes. For individual, interval start competitions, the finish zone should be prepared to a width of not less than 4 meters, and preferably 6 meters or more. It must have at least three lanes each of which should be at least 2 meters wide, with a track set in the middle of the lane Free Technique Finish Lanes. For individual, interval start competitions, the finish zone should be prepared to a width of not less than 6 meters, and preferably 9 meters or more. It must have at least three lanes each of which should be at least 3 meters wide. No track should be set unless the lanes are at least 4 meters wide, in which case a track may be set along one edge of each finish lane The Finish Line. The Finish Line should be as close to the starting line as possible. Ideally, it is an extension of the starting line. The finish line is marked by two vertical poles and on line with the snow. The length of the finish line may not be less than the width of the finish zone Timekeeping. Timekeeping for intermediate lap times should be to the side of the start or finish The Ski and Equipment Control Area. The ski control area is the area between the finish line and the Ski Control Line which is marked on the snow meters beyond the finish line. In this area, competitors are checked for compliance It is forbidden to remove skis before crossing the Ski Control Line The Immediate Care Area. The immediate care area is designed to provide for the immediate health needs of the competitor after the competition. The following should be provided in the immediate care area: 14

16 - refreshments (fluid and solid) for competitors; - blankets, warm and dry clothing; any clothing the competitor removed prior to the start should be made immediately available in this area; - medical personnel to examine the competitors and evaluate any conditions which potentially threaten the health of the athletes; -convenient exit to a protected area Awards Presentation Area. An area within the stadium may be reserved for the unofficial or official presentation of awards to competitors RULE 2 ORGANIZATION & OFFICIALS 2-1 Cross Country Competition Organizers MSHSL sanctioned competitions are governed by the following, MSHSL Nordic Cross Country Rules and MSHSL Rules publications and annual Cross Country Guidelines approved by the Minnesota Nordic Ski Coaches Association Board and the MSHSL Executive Board 2-2 Cross Country Competition Officials The Organizing Committee (OC) An OC must be appointed for a State Tournament Competition or Region/Section Qualifying competition. The OC may consists of members appointed by the, MSHSL, the Region/Section, and by the Organizers. The OC administers the rights, duties and obligations of the organizer The Competition Officials Appointment of the Competition Officials MSHSL appointed officials are: -- At State Tournament competitions: the TD Region/Section appointed officials are: -- At Region/Section Qualifying competitions: Meet Manager Organizing Committee Appointed Members The Organizer appoints all other members. The Chair of the OC or his/her Assistant represents the OC to the public and chairs the meetings of the OC. He/she cooperates before and after the competition closely together with MSHSL. Within the OC there must be one person appointed as the Chief of Competition who is qualified to conduct the competition and to supervise the technical aspects of the competition. The Competition Officials consist of specialists who are 15

17 particularly well qualified for their assigned duties. Each official is allowed to do only one job. Officials must be easily recognized by their uniforms, armbands or badges For the State Tournament the Chief of Competition must be qualified The TD must be constantly informed by the OC of progress in their preparatory work and of changes that may have to be made Competition Officials Appointed by the Chief of Competition The Competition Officials are: - already appointed by the OC - Competition Secretary - Chief of Course - Chief of Timekeeping and Data Processing - Chief of Stadium - Chief of Control and Competition Security The Chief of Competition will appoint other officials as necessary The Competition Officials and their Duties The Chief of Competition: - is responsible for all aspects of the competition - must check that all officials responsible for the organization of the competition are qualified enough to ensure that the competition is carried out in accordance with the MSHSL Competition Rules - supervises the work of the competition officials - is chair of the team leaders' meetings, a member of the Jury and the OC's representative in dealings with the TD. - is responsible for the control functions and the security aspects of the competition. - Provides for optimal TV coverage and media working conditions The Competition Secretary: - reports to the chief of competition - is responsible for all secretarial work concerned with the technical aspects of the competition - prepares all the forms for the start, timing, calculation, draw and controls - checks that the entries are correct - checks the Region results and quotas on the limited start competitions - organizes team leaders' meetings - prepares and distributes start lists - prepares and distributes competition information, invitation, team communications and results package) - records and distributes the minutes of the team leaders' meetings and Jury meetings with the approval of the TD 16

18 - arranges for the earliest possible publication of unofficial results and for the distribution of the official results, including any possible disqualification - must hand over protests immediately to the Jury The Chief of Course: - reports to the chief of competition - should be familiar with the course homologation requirements - has the knowledge how to use the course preparation equipment related to different snow conditions to obtain the optimal course preparation. - must be able to set the track in the ideal line and place it or remove it correctly in curves and in the down-hills - is responsible for the preparation of the ski-testing areas, warm-up tracks, the marking and fencing of the course, temperature measurements, first aid posts, feeding stations, and for providing the facilities for intermediate timing - uses the course preparation groups and the forerunners to ensure the course is in the best possible condition. - must send at least two course closers or a vehicle around the course after the last competitor The Chief of Timekeeping and Data Processing: - reports to the chief of competition - is responsible for the direction and coordination of the officials working in the timing area - supervises manual timers, electronic timers, intermediate timekeepers and calculations officials' work - coordinates the locations of intermediate timing with the host broadcaster. - coordinates the work of the starter, the finish referee and the finish controller with the chief of stadium. - Supervises the data processing services and provides media information support The Chief of Stadium: - reports to the chief of competition. The chief of stadium shall work with the TD, chief of race and starter in maintaining the integrity of the start /finish area. - is responsible for all activities in the stadium area. This includes flow of competitors to the start, ski-marking, commercial marking, ski-marking control at the finish, flow from the finish area, support for anti-doping controllers - assign workers to assist with ski marking area. - provides fencing, course markings and signs in the stadium area - set up the pursuit gates/lanes. - coordinates the placement of the start and finish lines with the chief of time keeping - coordinates all course preparations on the stadium with the chief of course. - mark and place the pursuit order of start boards. - assign gatekeepers to each pursuit lane and explain the mechanics of the pursuit start. 17

19 - Provide a backup watch. - after all or the pursuit racer have started, assign workers to appropriate places for finish control/coordination. - coordinates with the chief of control and competition security for the effective stadium access and control for competitors, coaches, service personnel and the media. - prepares mixed zone in the finish area The Chief of Control and Competition Security: - reports to the chief of competition - coordinates his activities with the chief of stadium and the chief of course - decides together with the chief of competition and the TD on the suitable placing of controllers - informs controllers of their duties - equips controllers with control cards and other material that may be necessary and assigns them to their locations - collects all pertinent information and control cards after the competition and reports any incidents to the Jury - for MSHSL State Tournament competitions, is responsible for security and access into and along the course, in team preparation areas and in the stadium area. - Two controllers are necessary for each post. The number and placing of the controllers is determined without notifying the competitors, coaches or other officials. The controllers at each post record violations and the passing of the competitors. They may use video equipment. After the competition they must inform the chief of control and competition security of any violations to the rules and be ready to testify before the Jury Other Officials of the Competition are: Controllers - Controllers are to be placed at selected area on the course where violations are most likely to occur. - monitor compliance regarding restriction on technique and obstruction. - record exactly any violations they witness including the number of the competitor, the nature of the violation, the point on the course at which the violation occurred, the technique used, the type of terrain and the number of repetitions of the violation. - maintain spectator control of the course and to assure that the racer has free access to the course without any outside interference. - immediately after a race submit a card with specific details of any infraction. If the jury requires verbal testimony, the controller must be available Head Starter -The head starter is responsible for giving appropriate warning and start signals. - assure that the racers start at the correct time and in correct order at the correct 18

20 - place assistant starters in appropriate places to assist with the line up for the start. - call back any skier who is charged with a false start Assistant Starter - The assistant starter is responsible for summoning the racers in ample time, and assuring that they start in proper order. - check off each contestant on the starting list as the skier starts - assist the starter in performing his/her duties Ski Marker - The ski marker(s) are responsible for marking the racers skis in an established area near the start. Both skis shall be marked before the start of the race and the racers number shall be in place. - assure that the racers do not leave the designated start area once skis are marked Finish Referees - determine the order of finish. - assure that the rules are observed properly and applied at the finish line - assure compliance with the uniform rule Assistant Finish Referee - The assistant referee shall record the order of finish and assist the finish referee The chief of media information: - In cooperation with the chief of competition and chief of course, chief of stadium, chief of control and competition security is responsible for providing optimal working conditions for media, equipment suppliers and competition officials in the media areas and the mixed zone. This includes the layout of the mixed zone, the positions for photographers, journalists and commentators. Rooms for press conferences and related media infrastructure must be provided. - is also responsible for the flow of pertinent information to the press, radio and TV, and for the efficient functioning of the loudspeakers at the stadium area The chief of medical services: - is responsible for the organization of all medical and first aid arrangements and for the quick transport of patients to the nearest appropriate medical facility - is responsible for providing facilities for medical testing and treatment. 2-3 The Jury and its Duties Members of the Jury For MSHSL State Tournament competitions the Jury will consist of the following: -The TD, who is the Chair of the Jury -The Chief of Competition 19

21 -The Chief of Course -Two appointed coaches from visiting teams, who are selected based on their knowledge of the rules and their experience Duties of the Jury The Jury must ensure that the competition is organized and carried out according to the MSHSL Rules. The responsibilities begin when the jury is appointed and are ended when protests from the final competition have been decided The Jury must clarify and decide: - whether a competition shall be postponed, interrupted or cancelled, if the temperature is below 4 degrees Fahrenheit, measured at the coldest point of the course. With difficult weather conditions (e.g., strong wind, high air humidity, heavy snowfall, or high temperature) the Jury may, in consultation with the team leaders of the participating teams and the doctor responsible for the competition, postpone or cancel the competition - if "force majeure" was the reason for a competitor's late arrival at the start - whether reserves may be included and late entries accepted - whether protests should be accepted and sanctions or disqualification announced - whether to apply for sanctions against an athlete or coach - whether there will be a change of starting order and method of start in special cases - any questions not covered by MSHSL Rules Decisions of the Jury are made by a majority vote. 2-4 The Role of the Technical Delegate (TD) Authority The TD is the delegate of the MSHSL to the organizing body, and is a guarantor for the MSHSL that the competition is conducted in accordance with the MSHSL Rules. The TD must be qualified and knowledgeable of these race protocol and rules. The TD has the responsibility to involve and utilize the MSHSL appointed OC and the OC appointed officials in the preparation, the carrying out and the follow up of the competition. The TD is responsible for organizing the work of the jury TD Duties before the Competition: The TD must arrive at the site in due time before the competition so that a check can be made before the beginning of the official training, and that the correct preparations for training and competition are being carried out, and make any necessary improvements prior to the start of competition. At competitions where the MSHSL Race Director is not present the tasks of the RD become the responsibility of the TD 20

22 2-4.3 Before the competition the TD is responsible for: - being in touch with the State Tournament Race Director and the OC from the time of his appointment. - visiting the site for State Tournament the summer prior to the competition - keeping the MSHSL informed of the preparations being made for the competition - ensuring that official training is organized - checking that the accommodation, meal and travel arrangements for the competitors are satisfactory and make recommendations for improvement when necessary - deciding if a reserve course, or changes on parts of the homologated course, proposed by the organizer, should be used due to poor snow conditions, or conditions caused by force majeure. - checking the homologation documents for MSHSL competitions - ensuring that sufficient equipment is available for the correct preparation of the courses - checking that all documents (plans and profiles of the courses with all technical data, invitations, etc.) necessary for the information of the participating teams are available in due time - deciding, in collaboration with the chief of competition and the chief of course, when the course shall be prepared, the optimal line, the width of the track, and safety precautions. - reviewing the layout of the stadium with the chief of competition to ensure suitable working conditions in the start and finish area for the Jury, the competition officials and coaches, and controlled access to the start and from the finish for the competitors - checking the procedures of the pursuit start - checking the arrangements for Jury and team leaders' meetings - checking with the competition secretary for the procedures for entries, grouping, the draw and the production of prompt start and result lists - checking the quality and accuracy of information given to the teams - performing a test draw prior to the actual draw when a computer draw is being used - supervising the team leaders' meetings and the draw procedures - preparing the agenda together with the chief of competition - giving general information and clarify rule changes - supervising, the grouping and the draw, and determining the place and time of Jury meetings - supervising the location of the first aid service and the organization of the medical care - reviewing the accreditation and authorization for entry to the competition courses and restricted zones. - coordinating with the organizer the locations for technique control - checking the liability insurance The TD should be able to ski the course, and make a judgement of the course preparations or designate this responsibility to a Jury member 21

23 2-4.4 TD Duties during the Competition: - arrive at the race site two hours before the start of the first competition or earlier if weather conditions are difficult - review, on arrival, a report from the chief of competition and the chief of course that provides a detailed update of all preparations for the competition - ensure that competition equipment and commercial marking comply with the rules - be present in the stadium area unless other arrangements have been communicated to the chief of competition - supervise every aspect that might influence the success of the competition, and be present if difficulties arise - try to stay in regular contact by radio with members of the Jury or at least have permanent contact with the chief of competition and the chief of course TD Duties after the Competition: - receive a final report from the chief of competition, the chief of course, the chief controller and others - meet with the Jury to make any necessary decisions, obtain the unofficial result list from the competition secretary and checks it together with him - check that the athletes codes and FIS points are included in the result list - calculate the race penalty Within ten days after the competition, the TD shall submit to the MSHSL Office, and the Organizer, a detailed written report on the preparation, the organization and the carrying-out of the competition as well as the competence of the technical preparations If a disqualification has occurred provide quality documentation sufficient for the appeal process. 2-5 Reimbursement of Expenses Reimbursement Of Expenses The MSHSL in cooperation with the organizers are responsible for the reimbursement of the MSHSL appointed officials in accordance with said agreements and contracts. 2-6 MSHSL Race Director, Technical Advisor and Event Manager The main duties of RD/TA/EM are - control and follow up on the agreement between MSHSL and the OC. - to be in contact with the Organizer concerning - the organization of the competition - control of invitations -starting times in accordance with overall FIS overall competition - program and the TV coverage 22

24 - quality of accommodation and prices - preparation of media work - control that the required liability insurance is in place - The RD/TA will meet with the TD to discuss important issues 2-7 Team Leaders' Meeting Procedure Before each competition a team leaders meeting is carried out. It should take place one day before the competition The date, time and place of the team leaders' meeting has to be published in the competition program (article 216). The TD and the chief of competition decide how many representatives per participating team and how many accredited officials are allowed to take part in the team leaders' meeting The team leaders' meeting is not public The team leaders' meeting is conducted by the chief of competition At the team leaders' meeting, a majority of the voting members is enough for a jury recommendation. Each team has one vote When necessary, the Jury may decide to interrupt the meeting in order to make a decision on recommendations and bring this result back to the meeting Agenda A written agenda has to be distributed for the team leaders' meeting. It is prepared by the competition secretary in cooperation with the chief of competition and the TD. For MSHSL State Tournaments, this agenda must be posted to the official event website prior to the meeting At all MSHSL competitions the agenda normally contains the following items: - Roll call - introduction of the members of the OC - introduction of the Jury, if necessary appointment of the Jury - weather forecast - checking of the entries or grouping of the competitors - draw - description of the stadium (access, ski marking, start, finish, exchange zone for relay, tents for clothes changing, exit etc.) - description of the course (access, profile, locations for intermediate timing and feeding, security problems, course markings etc.) - preparation of the course - time, locations and regulations for ski testing 23

25 - times and courses for training - general information from the TD - general information from the Organizer - general information from the MSHSL Race Director Minutes which contain all topics of discussion and the recommendations made, must be taken at the team leaders' meeting. RULE 3 Medical & Safety 3-1 MSHSL Medical Rules & Procedures The MSHSL medical rules and procedures shall be followed and adhered to during the entire competition. 3-2 Medical Officer: A chief medical officer will be appointed for every MSHSL Tournament Planning: The medical officer shall prepare an emergency first aid, evacuation, and notification plan for injuries, accidents, or deaths. Information regarding this plan and procedures to be followed in the event of injury, accident, or death should be provided to participants and competition officials Training: The medical officer shall designate, inform and train a sufficient number of medical, safety and emergency personnel to provide for the safety and medical needs of the competitors First Aid Stations: The location of first aid stations shall be marked by appropriate signs along the course. There shall be heated first aid stations in the start and finish areas. RULE 4 Cold Weather Precautions 4-1 Cold Weather Precautions: Background: There are three main factors to be considered by the Jury regarding cold weather safety: the temperature; the duration of the exposure; and, the clothing and other protection against cold weather. These factors together with any other relevant 24

26 information such as the "wind chill factor" must be taken into consideration when a decision is made regarding cold weather Between minus 15* C and minus 20* C: If the temperature level is forecast to be between minus 15* C and minus 20* C at any point on the course, recommendations regarding cold weather protection should be made available to the participants. Under such conditions it is the responsibility of the participants to seek the information and to follow the recommendations given by the organizer Minus 20* C and Below: If the temperature in a major portion of the course is minus 20* C or below, the competition shall be delayed or cancelled Warm Weather Precautions If the temperature is forecast to rise above 5* degrees C during the course of the competition, and exposure to sunshine is expected, recommendations must be given to competitors concerning clothing, skin protection and the need to consume adequate liquid before and during the competition. Feeding stations must ensure that they have adequate drinks to meet the increased demand. First aid stations must be briefed to be alert for signs of dehydration or any damage from sun exposure, and be prepared to take necessary measures in cases of dehydration or sunburn. RULE 5 Disqualifications, Protests & Appeals Cancellation Procedures 5-1 Sanctions In case of violations of the MSHSL rules the Jury decides on a disqualification. If the violation does not have an effect on the result of the race the Jury may decide not to disqualify the competitor or the relay team. The MSHSL may find other applicable sanctions related to the kind of violation. 5-2 Disqualification Pacing Pacing, defined as skiing behind, in front of, or along side a competitor with the intent of controlling or maintaining that skier_s tempo, is not allowed. It is permissible to run on foot, along side the track, shouting encouragement, giving 25

27 intermediate times and information to racers for up to 30 meters. In all circumstances the racecourse must be kept clear It is strongly recommended that no spectator or competitor (skiers who have yet to start their race or who have competed their race) may ski on the racecourse while the race is in progress The following are recommendations to assure that the racer has free access to the course without any outside interference: a) The only non-racers allowed on the race trails with skis should be Marshals, Medical Personnel and Coaches. All other spectators should be limited to foot traffic. b) Positions on the trail for foot-traffic spectators should be defined, advertised and enforced by the coaches. Parents serving as marshals do not want to be "Ski- Police", but can be asked to note any violations. c) Access to points on the trail for foot traffic spectators should be controlled so that the ski trail is not damaged. d) Forerunners should be provided before each race. The course is considered officially closed as soon as the forerunners pass and will remain closed until the race is completed. e) Start and finish areas should be well defined and barricades of some order should be used to define the limits of spectator traffic Common Violations Violations of the following rules are the most common examples for the jury to disqualify a competitor. The competitor: - does not meet the eligibility requirements - does not comply with the required age - enters the competition on false premises - does not follow the marked courses (by trying to take a shortcut) or does not pass all the controllers - fails to give way to an overtaking competitor when so requested or obstructs another competitor - covers a part of the course with unmarked skis; exception being a broken ski or binding, or without skis on the feet - violates technique rules - ski testing and warming up on the competition course in the restricted areas or in the wrong direction - starts before their given start time in a pursuit competition. - refuses to wear a timing transponder when required. -are pushed or pulled by anyone along the track, or otherwise do not complete the course using their own means of propulsion. - receive unauthorized or illegal assistance, including pacing. - run part of the course without skis on their feet. - use improper equipment. - are paced by a non-competitor during the race. 26