FORWARD

 

 

PURPOSE

 

The Maui County Hawaiian Canoe Association (MCHCA) was formed for the purposes of engaging in charitable, educational, cultural and recreational activities associated with Hawaiian canoeing, including the promotion of outrigger canoe racing and the construction and preservation of authentic Hawaiian Koa canoes.

 

The Race Rules as set forth are in furtherance of these purposes.

 

OBJECTIVES

 

The specific objectives of MCHCA Race Rules are as follows:

 

1.             To define and cover participation by MCHCA member clubs in races and regattas sanctioned by the MCHCA Board of Directors.  These shall include the MCHCA scheduled regattas and such other regattas, surf course races, or open races accepted as sanctioned events by    the MCHCA Board of Directors.

 

2.             To serve as “Model Rules” and as a guide for MCHCA in establishing rules for the conduct of our races and regattas.

 

3.             To define and cover participation by MCHCA member clubs in approved races and regattas.

 

CODE OF ETHICS3*

 

We are all responsible to promote good sportsmanship and fair play in the activities we engage in.  This means observance of these race rules as well as generally accepted rules of behavior and all governmental laws.

 

Paddlers are to avoid situations where a canoe is deliberately rammed, where there is deliberate interference with another crew, where assaults and/or abusive language are used.

 

Coaches are required to support and enforce these race rules and to avoid any circumvention of these rules.

 

Officials and Officers are required to do their best to be fair and not biased in their decisions and in carrying out their duties.

 

Any violation of the Code of Ethics shall be reported in writing to the Race Rules Committee chairman immediately following the incident.  The Race Rules Committee will meet to review the report and then make recommendations to the MCHCA BOD for any disciplinary action, i.e. fines, suspensions, etc.  If the violation occurs at the MCHCA regatta the RACE RULES COMMITTEE will meet immediately following that regatta.  If the violation occurs at any other race or event the RACE RULES COMMITTEE will meet within 5 days from that race or event.7*


 

I.              SANCTIONED AND APPROVED RACE REGATTAS

 

A.    Sanctioned Races and Regattas

 

1.             Definition – A sanctioned race or regatta is one, which is conducted directly or under the auspices of MCHCA.

 

2.             Note – MCHCA member clubs and non-MCHCA clubs may request permission to sponsor sanctioned races and regattas under the auspices of MCHCA.

 

3.             Conditions – All sanctioned races and regattas conducted by MCHCA or by clubs under the auspices of MCHCA shall be subject to the following conditions:

 

a.             Prior approval by the MCHCA Board of Directors.

 

b.             MCHCA prevailing Race Rules as approved by the MCHCA Board of Directors shall apply, and any deviation thereof shall require Board approval.

 

c.             Conduct of the race shall be governed by the MCHCA Race Director and a Race Committee appointed by the Race Director in accordance with the MCHCA Race Rules or as approved by the Board of Directors.

 

d.             Guest participation is permissible subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.

 

e.             Registration and entrance fees shall be in accordance with MCHCA prevailing Race Rules or as approved by its Board of Directors.

 

B.    Approved Races and Regattas

 

1.             Definition – An approved race or regatta is:

 

a.             Any race or regatta other than MCHCA sanctioned races or regattas – sponsored by an MCHCA member club on Maui, which has been duly approved by MCHCA.  Such races and regattas shall require approval by the MCHCA Board of Directors unless the Board, because of extenuating circumstances, shall deem otherwise.  In such cases, the Board of Directors shall notify all prospective participants not less than two (2) weeks prior to the race or regatta that approval is being withdrawn and the reasons therefore.  The sponsoring club shall have the right of appeal.

 

b.             Any race or regatta sponsored by other than the MCHCA and/or MCHCA member club in which participation by MCHCA/HCRA member clubs has met the approval requirements as indicated below:

 

1.             A race or regatta in which participation is limited to the canoe clubs on any given island shall require approval of the respective island canoe racing association only.

 

2.             A race or regatta, in which invitations to participants are issued to clubs on other islands, statewide, nationally, or internationally, shall require MCHCA/HCRA Board of Directors’ approval.

 

 

 

 

 

2.             Conditions

 

a.             In the case of invitational races and regattas, the sponsoring organization shall submit to the MCHCA Secretary the following information for the MCHCA Board of Directors’ review at least 30 days prior to the event.

 

1.             Letter of invitation;

 

2.             Rules governing the event, including canoe eligibility and class divisions;

 

3.             Location and description of the site and race course;

 

4.             Evidence of required approval of governmental agencies (U.S. Coast Guard and State Department of Transportation, Harbors Division);

 

5.             Character and type of awards;

 

6.             Entry fees;

 

7.             Escort boat requirements; and

 

8.             Paddler registration and eligibility requirements.

 

a.             Failure to satisfactorily meet the requirements of this paragraph shall be grounds for denying or, in the case of sponsoring MCHCA clubs, for withdrawing approval of the event.

 

b.             Participation by MCHCA member clubs in any race or regatta sponsored by an MCHCA member club from which approval has been withdrawn, or any race or regatta sponsored by other than MCHCA or an MCHCA member club approval by the Board of Directors, shall constitute a violation of rules subject to disciplinary action as determined by the Board of Directors.  MCHCA club sponsors shall also be subject to disciplinary action if the proposed race or regatta is held after approval from MCHCA is withdrawn.  Such disciplinary action may include expulsion from the Association or denial of permission to participate in MCHCA/HCRA sanctioned races and regattas.

 

C.    Race Scheduling

 

The last regatta will be a Championship regatta.  During this regatta the 3rd seed (lane) for States shall be awarded to the 1st place finisher of each event.  In the event that the 1st place finisher is already qualified to go to States, the 3rd seed shall go to the crew with the 3rd highest cumulative points for the season.  The location and sponsor of the Championship regatta shall be determined by a majority vote of the MCHCA Board of Directors (No later than the April MCHCA BOD Meeting.  15*


 

The Race Schedule for MCHCA sanctioned and approved races/ regattas shall be determined in accordance with the following procedures:

 

 

1.             Sanctioned Regattas

 

All sanctioned regattas shall start at 8:00 a.m. and be scheduled in the following order:      

 

                                2009                       2010                 2011                 2012                 2013                 201423*

 

                                NAP                 LUOK               WAI                  HWN                LCC                  KIH

                        KCC                 NAP                 LUOK               WAI                  HWN                LCC

                        NKE                 KCC                 NAP                 LUOK               WAI                  HWN

                        KIH                   NKE                 KCC                 NAP                 LUOK               WAI

                        LCC                  KIH                   NKE                 KCC                 NAP                 LUOK

                        HWN                LCC                  KIH                   NKE                 KCC                 NAP

                        WAI                  HWN                LCC                  KIH                   NKE                 KCC

 

                                Off:                   Off:                   Off:                   Off:                   Off:                   Off:

 

                        LUOK               WAI                  HWN                LCC                  KIH                   NKE

 

                                After hosting the championship regatta, a club would sit out a year and then host the first

                        regatta of the year.  After Wailea hosts a championship, the order of clubs hosting and

                                sitting out would be consistent with the age order of the clubs.

 

                                If Hana or Lanai decide to host a championship, an extra club would have to sit out that

                        year.  This means that a club could be out two years in a row.

 

                                The first regatta will be nine weeks before the state regatta (the season would start as

                        usual), leaving a weekend free between the MCHCA championship and the state regatta. 

                        There will be a bye weekend the 4th of July weekend.  17* 19*

 

2.             Draft System

 

Remaining race dates shall be awarded through a draft system.  Order of selection shall be as follows (Clubs in order of inception):

 

            Hawaiian Canoe Club

            Hana Canoe Club

            Lahaina Canoe Club

            Kihei Canoe Club

            Na Kai Ewalu

            Kahana Canoe Club

            Napili Canoe Club 10*

            Lae Ula O Kai

            Wailea  16*

            Hui Wa’a O Lanai 12*

 

Clubs desiring additional race dates shall choose one (1) weekend per round until all weekends are taken or no additional dates are desired.  However, see item three (3) for special rules for the first round draft selections.


                          3.       Protected Races  

 

Each club member shall be able to protect one weekend that they had occupied/ reserved in the previous year during the first round of draft.  All such protected weekends must be declared in advance of the first round selection.  All weekends not protected shall be eligible for selection by other clubs during the first and subsequent rounds.12* 

Note.   What you had last year is what you get this year. 13*

 

                        4.         Conflicts

 

No conflicts in the schedule shall be allowed.  No club is allowed to conduct a race on a weekend during which any other member club has a race scheduled.

 

NOTE:        This rule applies only to competitive races, and not races, which are primarily for fundraising.  It would be permissible for clubs to schedule fundraising races (i.e. hotel, challenge cup, restaurant) on the same day.  Clubs shall be subject to sanctions as set forth in Section I, Section 2b of these rules for violations of this rule.

 

                        5.         Time of Scheduling

 

The draft selection shall be held during the first or second MCHCA BOD meeting of the calendar year, but in no event later than February. 20*

 

II.            ORDER OF REGATTA RACING EVENTS

 

A.    General:    This article covers the order and distance, scoring and awards for the official events of MCHCA’s Regattas.

 

B.    Order and Distance 4* 23*

 

1.      Girls 12 yrs & under B 13*                                ¼ mile

2.      Boys 12 yrs & under B 13*                               ¼ mile

3.      Girls 12 yrs & under A 13*                                ¼ mile

4.      Boys 12 yrs & under A 10* 13*                          ¼ mile

5.      Mixed Boys & Girls 12 yrs & under                   ¼ mile

6.      Girls 13 yrs & under                                        ¼ mile

7.      Boys 13 yrs & under                                       ¼ mile

8.      Girls 14 yrs & under                                        ¼ mile

9.      Boys 14 yrs & under                                       ¼ mile

10.     Women Novice “B”                                          ¼ mile

11.     Mixed Novice “B” 11*                                        ¼ mile

12.     Girls 15 yrs & under 12* 13*                              ½ mile

13.     Boys 15 yrs & under 12* 13*                              ½ mile

14.     Men Novice “B”                                               ½ mile

15.     Girls 16 yrs & under                                        ½ mile

16.     Boys 16 yrs & under                                       ½ mile

17.     Girls 18 yrs & under                                        ½ mile

18.     Mixed Boys & Girls 18 yrs & under 23*              ½ mile

19.     Women Novice “A”                                          ½ mile

20.     Boys 18 yrs & under 11* 12*                              1 mile

21.     Men Novice “A” 11* 12*                                                  1 mile

22.     Women Freshmen 11* 12*                                 1 mile

23.     Men Freshmen 11* 12*                                      1 mile

24.     Women Sophomore 11* 12*                               1 mile

25.     Men Sophomore11* 12*                                     1 mile

26.     Women Junior                                                1 mile

27.     Men Junior11*                                                  1 mile

28.     Senior Women Masters (50 yrs) 16*                  ½ mile

29.     Senior Men Masters (50 yrs) 7* 16*                    ½ mile

30.     Golden Women Masters (55 yrs) 9* 11* 12* 14*    ½ mile

31.     Golden Men Masters (55 yrs) 9* 11* 12* 14*         ½ mile

32      Women Grand Masters (60 yrs) 21*                   ½ mile

33.     Men Grand Masters (60 yrs) 21*                        ½ mile

34.     Mixed Golden Masters Men & Wm (55 yrs+)15*½ mile

35.     Women Open Four                                          ½ mile

36.     Men Open Four                                               ½ mile

37.     Mixed Masters Men & Women (40 yrs)             ½ mile

38.     Mixed Men & Women Open                             ½ mile

39.     Women Masters (40 yrs) 3* 11* 12* 16*               1 mile

40.     Men Masters (40 yrs) 3* 11* 12* 16*                    1 mile

41.     Women Open 3* 11* 12*                                    1 ½ mile

42.     Men Open 3* 11* 12*                                         1 ½ mile

 

 

C.    Scoring of Races

                                                                        1st         2nd        3rd         4th

Events 1 through 42 20* 23*                 5          3          2          1

 

D.    Awards

 

Individual awards shall be given to crews placing first, second, and third in each race.  MCHCA Directors shall determine the type and character of awards.

 

E.    Divisions:

 

There will be two (2) divisions, A & AA:

 

1.               A Division:         14 crews or less

 

2.               AA division:       15 crews or more

 

Divisions will be determined at drawing of lanes only.  11*

 

F.    Inability to finish regatta

 

In the event that any regatta cannot be completed due to darkness or other condition, rescheduling or cancellation of said regatta shall be decided by majority vote of the clubs representatives.  In the event of a tie the Race Director has the deciding vote. 13*

 

III.           CLASSIFICATION OF RACING EVENTS 23*

 

A.    Definitions

 

      1. Junior                  Open to any male or female.

 

      2. Sophomore          Open to any male or female whom has not paddled in a Junior race in the current regatta season. 11* 12* 22*

 

      3. Freshman            Open to any male or female who has not paddled in a Junior or Sophomore race in the current regatta season. 8* 11* 12*

 

      4. Boys/Girls 18       Open to any boy or girl who has not yet paddled in more than one Freshman, Sophomore, Junior or Novice race in the current regatta season and who has not reached his/her 19th birthday on the first day of the calendar year. 11* 13* 15* 19* 20* 21*

 

.     5. Mixed 18            Not a classified event.  Open to any boy/girl who has not reached his/her 19th birthday on the first day of the calendar year.  Crew must be three boys and three girls.  (Not an HCRA State Race event.) 23*

 

      6. Boys/Girls 16       Open to any boy or girl who has not yet paddled in more than one Freshman, Sophomore or Junior or Novice race in the current regatta season and who has not reached his/her 17th birthday on the first day of the calendar year.  9* 11* 12* 13* 15* 19* 20* 21*

 

      7. Boys/Girls 15       Open to any boy or girl who has not yet paddled in more than one Freshman, Sophomore or Junior or Novice race in the current regatta season and who has not reached his/her 16th birthday on the first day of the calendar year. 12* 13* 20* 21*

 

      8. Boys/Girls 14       Open to any boy or girl who has not reached his/her 15th birthday on the first day of the calendar year. 8* 11*12* 13* 20*

 

      9. Boys/Girls 13       Open to any boy or girl who has not reached his/her 14th birthday on the first day of the calendar year. 8* 11*12* 13* 20*

 

    10. Mixed 12             Not a classified event.  Open to any boy/girl who has not reached his/her 13th birthday on the first day of the calendar year.  Crew must have three boys and three girls. 8* 11*12* 13* 16* 20*

 

    11. Boys/Girls 12A     Open to any boy or girl who has not reached his 13th birthday on the first day of the calendar year. 10* 11* 12* 13* 20*

 

    12. Boys/Girls 12B     Open to any boy or girl who has not reached his 13th birthday on the first day of the calendar year. 10* 11* 12* 13*

 

    13. Novice “A”            Open to any first, second or third year paddler who has never paddled in any higher classification.  A person may remain in Novice “A” classification for two (2) years, after which they must move to a higher classification.  Participation in novelty races does not apply. . 8* 11*

 

                                    Examples:

                                   

1.             Year 1 – Novice “B”

2.             Year 2 – Novice “A”

3.             Year 3 – Novice “A”

 

1.             Year 1 – Novice “B” step up to Novice “A”

2.             Year 2 – Novice “A”

3.             Year 3 – Freshman or higher

 

    14. Novice “B”            Open to any male or female who has not paddled in more than one sanctioned regatta or distance race prior to the start of the current racing season and who has never paddled in any Novice A, Freshman, Sophomore, Junior or Senior event. 9* 11* 12*

 

    15. Mxd Novice“B”     Not a classified event.  Open to any male/female who has not paddled in more than one sanctioned regatta or distance race prior to the start of the current racing season, and who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and has never paddled in any Novice A, Freshman, Sophomore, Junior or Senior event.  The crew is to be made up of three (3) men and three (3) women.  No seating requirement.  11* 12* 13* 15*

 

    16. Men/Wmn Opn Four      Not a classified event.   Open to any male or female who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta.  2* 15*

 

    17. Men/Women Masters    Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female 40 years of age or older who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and who has reached his/her 40th birthday.  2* 15* 16*

 

    18. Men/Wmn Sr Masters    Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female 50 years of age or older who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and who has reached his/her 50th birthday. 15* 16*

 

    19. Mixed Men/Women       Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female that is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta.  The crew is to be made up of three (3) men and three (3) women.  No seating requirements. 2* 15*

 

    20. Men/Women Open        Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta. 2* 12* 15*

 

NOTE:  Points for this event shall be accumulated as in other events and shall be used to seed the State qualifiers for the Men / Women Senior races.  (Section XIII A & B shall apply).  19*

 

.   21. Mixed Masters              Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and who has reached his/her 40th birthday on or before the day of the regatta.  The crew is to be made up of three (3) men and three (3) women.  No seating requirements. 4* 15*

 

    22. Men/Wmn Gldn Mstrs  Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female 55 years or older who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and who has reached  his/her 55th birthday. 10* 11* 12* 14* 15*

 

    23. Mixed Golden Master    Not a classified event.  Open to any male or female who is not paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and who has reached his/her 55th birthday on or before the day of the regatta.  The crew is to be made up of three(3) men and three(3) women.  No seating requirements. 15*

 

. 24. Men/Wmn Grand Mstrs   Not a classified event.   Open to any male or female who is not

                                               paddling in more than one other event in the same regatta and who

                                               has reached his/her 60th birthday. 21*

 

B.  Conditions of Classifications 23*

 

  1.    At the end of the MCHCA Regatta season and also at the beginning of the next regatta season, junior age paddlers may reclassify back down to a younger classification, provided they meet the age requirements. 8* 11* 13* 20*

 

  2.   Age restrictions.  Paddlers aged 15 years and younger are prohibited from being entered in the Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Novice B, Novice A or unclassified events. 10* 11* 12* 15* 21*

 

  3.   Any adult who paddled 3+ years in the Junior age division and who sits out for more than 5 years can come back and petition the Race Director to return and paddle as a 2nd year Novice A.  13* 23 *

 

  4.     A Novice B paddler who races in more than one unofficial race at a MCHCA regatta shall not be eligible as a Novice B in subsequent years. 18*

 

  5.   The phrase “sanctioned regatta or distance race” means a regatta and/or distance race sanctioned by any outrigger canoe racing association including, but not limited to, HCRA and its affiliate associations, high school associations, and/or any outrigger canoe association from any state or country. 3*

 

  6.   Paddlers in classification Novice “B” must move to classification called Novice “A” or higher          classification the following year.

 

  7.    It is understood that a Novice “B” or “A” paddler can paddle in a non-classified event without affecting their novice status. 2*

 

  8.    Any Novice B who moves up to Freshmen level is required to stay at the Freshmen level. 13* 20*

 

  9.   Participation in an unofficial crew at a MCHCA regatta shall be considered as paddling in a sanctioned regatta for purposes of Novice Classification. 18*

 

10.    Paddlers who have moved to Sophomore or Junior during a regatta season may reclassify to Freshmen at the end of the MCHCA regatta season and may also reclassify to Freshman at the start of the next regatta season.  8* 12* 13* 22*

 

11.   Each paddler will be allowed to participate in no more than two (2) point events in the same regatta, i.e. paddler may apply the step-up rule or race in one classified and one unclassified event or in two unclassified events.  No more than three (3) paddlers from one event may paddle together in another event in the same regatta; with the exception of the Golden and Grand Master men/women and the Open men/women events (Number 20 of this section). 18* 19* 21*

 

12.    Step-up rules will remain in effect for classified events, for example:  a Novice B paddler may paddle both the Novice B race and a Mixed Novice B race in the same regatta, but once a Novice B has raced in a Novice A or a higher classified race, he or she may not be reclassified back to Novice B.

 

IV.           ELIGIBILITY

 

A.   Clubs     Any member club of MCHCA who is in good standing and complied with Article V, Registration, shall be eligible to compete in regattas and long distance races sponsored by, sanctioned by, or approved by this organization.

 

B.   Paddlers Any male or female paddler who is a member of a recognized MCHCA club is eligible to participate pursuant to Article III, Classification and Article V, Registration.

 

 C.   Step-up1*    1. Anytime a paddler moves to a higher adult classification (Freshman, Sophomore or Junior) in the same day, it would be considered a step-up. 21*

 

                          2.  On Race Day, providing all conditions as specified in Article V, Registration, have been met, a paddler may move up in classification.  22*

 

                          3.  The Open Women and Open Men events are not classified events; therefore “step-up” rules do not apply.

 

                              Example:  You could conceivably have a crew made up of all step-ups.  2*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

V.            REGISTRATION

 

A.      Registration Cards (HCRA-ID 500) 6* 20*

 

Each member club shall file with the MCHCA Race Director a MCHCA paddler’s ID card (HCRA-ID 500).  Any paddler not so registered by 7:30 am for any race will be ineligible to participate in that race.  These paddler’s ID cards will become a permanent part of the records of the Association.  Registration cards shall be supplied by the member club in the format required by HCRA. 20*

 

1.         Each paddler, to be eligible, must register first with the MCHCA before he/she can participate in any racing events sanctioned by MCHCA.

 

2.         Each member club shall be responsible for the completion and filing of a paddler’s ID card for each paddler with the MCHCA Race Director.

 

3.         Each member club shall be responsible for submitting any status changes – new names (result of adoption or marriage), etc., for each paddler's ID card filed with MCHCA; subject cards to be kept current throughout the racing season.  20*

 

4.         At the end of each regatta, paddler ID cards will be returned to each member club and maintained by that club until the next regatta. 6*

 

5.         There shall be no manual registration cards. 2* 16* 20* 22*

 

6.         No HCRA paddler ID checker will check paddler waivers and identification for any paddler belonging to the same club they are currently registered with. 22*

 

B.      Registration Date

 

For purposes of eligibility, all paddlers shall be listed as having registered as of January 1, regardless of the date of their actual registration.

 

C.      Age and Gender Verification   16*

 

1.         All paddlers shall have available, if requested by the MCHCA Race Director, a certificate of birth from the Health Department, Bureau of Vital Statistics, or a baptismal certificate, verification of age from his/her school, or a driver’s license (or other state issued identification).  Proof of age and gender must be made available upon registration and upon request by the Race Director or Race Secretary within a reasonable amount of time.   16* 20*

 

2.         Failure to provide proof of age and gender within a reasonable amount of time, as determined by the Race Rules Committee, shall result in disqualification.   16*

 

D.      Paddler Registration Roster (MCHCA Form 200)  6*

 

1.         Each member club will list the names of all paddlers; male and female, by gender, in alphabetical order, last names first on the computer generated MCHCA Form 200. ( 22*)

2.         Each paddler registration roster (MCHCA #200) shall be accompanied by insurance waivers (MCHCA #300 & #350) and paddler’s identification card (MCHCA #100), for each name listed on the roster and any transfers if applicable. 6*

3.         At the first lane draw, each club will submit to the MCHCA Race Director an initial paddler’s registration roster printed from the HCRA ID system. 6* 22*

4.         Addendums to the initial roster must be submitted at lane draw or prior to the coach’s meeting at any regatta. 6* 22*

5.         The initial paddler registration roster and any addendum must be generated from the HCRA ID system and contain the paddler ID number. 7*

 

6.         All names listed on the MCHCA Form #200 must have a paddler’s identification card on file (HCRA-ID 500).

 

E.      Transfers (MCHCA Form 600)

 

1.             A paddler transferring from one club to another must have his transfer approved by the MCHCA Race Director/Secretary by the time entries are due in order for the paddler to be eligible to paddle in such race.  MCHCA Form 600 shall be used for this purpose. 12*

 

2.             A paddler who paddles in a regatta with a member club is ineligible to paddle competitively for another club in the same regatta season (first official regatta through State Race).  A paddler may transfer to another club at the conclusion of the regatta season to paddle in long distance races.  All financial obligations must be met to transfer.  All debts incurred in distance season must be paid prior to returning to the original club.  The Race Rules Committee has the prerogative to approve transfers in special cases such as hardship due to a switch in a geographical location. 1* 2* 12* 20*

 

3.             A paddler transferring from any club on another island to a MCHCA member club shall retain the same classification he or she last paddled.  Transfers must accompany a paddler transferring to MCHCA.

 

4.             A transfer and release shall be given only once during a regatta season. 10*

 

5.             A transfer and release may be initiated from the member club that the paddler is to be newly registered with MCHCA Form 600.

 

6.             In addition to initiating a transfer request through the HCRA race ID system, transfers shall be initiated by the receiving club via e-mail to the appropriate official member of the releasing club, who shall approve or disapprove the transfer via e-mail.  The Race Director and Race Secretary will be copied on the e-mail sequence and will inform a checker to make the transfer in the HCRA race ID system.  12* 22*

 

7.             No paddler shall be eligible for a transfer and release if the paddler is in financial debt to and/or withhold property belonging to the member club. If such is the case, the member club involved must submit substantial evidence to the Race Rules Committee and Board of Directors.

 

F.   Intent

 

1.             A paddler with no present club affiliation shall be considered a member of the first club he/she seeks application to.

 

2.             Where a paddler, already a member of a club, seeks membership in another club and, in so doing, files a membership application, transfers or otherwise demonstrates his/her intent, before participating in a sanctioned regatta, or racing in that season, the paddler shall be deemed a member of the club of intent upon the approval of a transfer and release by original club.

 

3.             Where a transfer is financially indebted to his/her parent club, and files a form of intent to join another club, the intended club may accept the paddler’s financial indebtedness and thus secure the paddlers transfer and release.

 

4.             Failure to comply shall result in disciplinary action by the Race Committee/Board of Directors, MCHCA.

 

G.       Insurance Waivers 6*

 

1.             For minors under 18 the insurance form titled MINOR WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY must be signed by the parent(s) or guardian(s).

 

2.             The form titled WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY must be signed by Adults (18 and older).

 

3.             Every person listed on the Paddler Registration Roster (MCHCA Form #200) must have an insurance waiver form properly signed and on file with the MCHCA Race Director.

 

4.             Every person paddling in a race (official, unofficial, or “manini”) must have a properly signed insurance waiver on file with the MCHCA Race Director.

 

H.       Late Registration 6*

 

1.         Late registration of paddlers on race day will be permitted providing the following stipulations are met:

 

a.   All necessary forms and verifications are in order (spreadsheet with necessary information, verification of date of birth and gender, roster, I.D. card with picture and signature, insurance form). 19*

 

b.     Transfers will not be accepted on race day.  Transfers are accepted at the drawing of lanes.

 

c.   Not more than five (5) paddlers may be registered on race day at five dollars ($5.00) each.  Registration must be completed by 7:30am on race day. Clubs must be prepared to provide a proper ID card for each paddler who is properly late registered. 20* 22*

 

VI.           EQUIPMENT

 

A.          General

 

1.             There are four classifications of canoes: (1) Koa; (2) Malia mold; (3) HCRA approved specifications canoe; and (4) Open.  In addition to the requirements of this section (VI), koa and non-koa class canoes only shall conform to the design specification set forth under Addendum “A” of these rules.  (Refer to illustration of “Hawaiian Koa Racing Canoe Hulls In Present Day Use,” copyrighted 1978, HCRA).  All canoes must be certified eligible to race in one of the above classes.  Canoe measurements shall be recorded on (HCRA Form 800) and the evidence of certification shall be set forth by the Race Commissioner (HCRA Form 800A). 10*

 

2.             Canoes shall be weighed by the MCHCA Canoe Inspector each year before the canoe is eligible to participate in an MCHCA sanctioned race or regatta.  If not previously certified, the canoe shall be measured also.  At any time during the year, at the discretion of the Race Committee, canoes may be weighed and/or measured.  8*

 

3.             Flotation compartments must be located at the bow and stern manu only.  This rule shall not apply to canoes registered prior to January 1, 1980.

 

4.             Attachable fins, keels or other devices are not permitted.

 

 

 

B.            Weight

 

1.             All canoes shall weigh not less than 400 pounds.  For purposes of weight determination, the word “canoe” shall not include ama, iako, and kaula (tying rope), but shall include hull and permanent fixtures such as manu, mo’o (gunwales),  wa’a noho (seats), pepeiao (cleats), ribs, patches, and permanently attached lead weights.  Canoes that are fitted with rails and hoop brackets shall weigh a minimum of 408 pounds. 12*

 

2.             For canoes produced prior to August 1, 1988, the minimum weight of the hull without weights must be no less than 350 pounds.  All added weight in excess of five pounds must be equally distributed between Seats #2 and #5.

 

For canoes produced after August 1, 1988, the minimum weight of the hull without weights must be no less than 385 pounds.  All added weight in excess of five pounds must be equally distributed between Seats #2 and #5.

 

All added weights must be permanently fixed under the seats by screws or bolts to allow ease of inspection by Race Officials at any time during a race or regatta. 10*

 

C.            Structural Changes

 

1.             Prior to the first weighing of canoes (1st sanctioned race), member clubs must notify the Board of Directors and Race Committee of any and all structural changes made to a canoe.  Notice must be in writing and must be accompanied by a diagram indicating changes.

 

2.             Alterations and/or structural changes made after the first weigh-in must be reported to the Race Committee and Board of Directors, and subject canoe must be weighed again to qualify for the regatta the canoe is to enter.

 

3.             Disapproved structural changes to a canoe shall be classified as nonstandard equipment.  Every crew using nonstandard equipment shall be penalized.

 

D.            Paddle Specifications

 

Paddles must be single-bladed and shaped of wood only.  However, the paddle used for racing may have a protective or supportive (strengthening) covering which may be fibrous, kevlar, carbon fiber, etc.  The paddle may have an edging or prosthesis for protection on the bottom or sides.  The paddle may have laminated (horizontally or vertically) synthetic materials (kevlar, etc.) for strength and support.  Extra paddles may be carried in each canoe during the race. 18*

 

E.            Newly Acquired Canoes

 

Canoes entering a race/regatta for the very first time must be classified and weighed.  New canoes acquired by member clubs must be in compliance with Article VI (Equipment) of these rules.

 

F.            Substitutions 6*

 

No club shall be permitted to use another club’s canoe during a sanctioned regatta without first notifying the officials.  If approved, that canoe would then have to be identified with the club’s Numerical Assignment number. 15*

 

 

 

 

G.          Penalty Clause

 

1.     Canoes and paddles failing to meet the specifications herein shall be disqualified from competition in MCHCA races or regattas.

 

2.     Penalty shall also apply to crews using nonstandard equipment during a race.

 

 

H.            Weighing Canoes

 

1.     A Canoe Inspector shall be appointed by the Race Director.  The Canoe Inspector, on a standard approved scale, shall weigh all canoes.  This inspector will work under the direction of the Race Director and shall be member of the Race Committee. 9*

 

2.     At the discretion of the Race Committee, or upon request, periodic weighing of canoes shall also be conducted during the season.

 

3.     All weights of canoes shall be officially recorded on forms supplied by MCHCA.  Location of lead weights and any other pertinent information shall be registered by the Race Committee (MCHCA Ford 800).  The completed forms shall be available to the Race Director at all races to aid in the inspection of canoes. 1*

 

4.     All sections of the canoe must be free of water. 1*

 

5.     All weighing of canoe information will be forwarded to the Board of Directors. 1*

 

I.            Inspections

 

The Race Committee shall, at any time it so chooses, conduct inspection of equipment.  However, at least one (1) inspection must be done at the beginning of each season.

 

VII.         CANOE SPECIFICATIONS

 

A.        Koa Canoe Specifications

 

1.     The hull of a koa canoe shall be originally hollowed out of a single koa log and, if extended, modified, enlarged, patched, or repaired, such must be done with koa components.

 

2.     Except as provided herein, all patches (including ribbing) installed in the hull of any canoe shall be made of koa wood.  The exceptions to this rule are as follows:

 

a.     Non-koa patches which were installed prior to the canoe weighing at the first regatta of 1970 and reported in writing to the Race Committee as to type of material, size, and location in the canoe hull.

 

b.     Non-koa patches which are installed after the canoe weighing at the first race or regatta of any year and replaced by a koa patch prior to use of that canoe in a race or regatta in any following year.

 

3.     Ama and iako shall be fashioned from only the following types of Hawaiian woods:  wiliwili, hau, milo, ohia, koa and ohe ohe.  No attachable fins, keels or other devices shall be allowed.

 

4.     An unpainted ama made from Hawaiian wood that is to be painted must first, before painting, be reported to the Board of Directors so that the ama can be checked before painting by a member of the Race Committee, who will make a permanent record of the wood type.  Violation of this section by a club can and may result in a penalty, such as the disqualification of the canoe, at the discretion of the Race Committee.

 

5.       At the discretion of the Race Committee, any painted ama attached to a koa canoe during a sanctioned race or regatta may be subjected to a test to determine the nature of the wood or interior. This proof check will be made at the cost of MCHCA.

 

B.    Non-Koa Malia Mold Class Canoe Specifications

 

1.     The hull of the canoe may be constructed from any or all types of material to include fiberglass, foam, metal, wood, laminated koa, etc.  It must be of traditional Hawaiian Malia mold design.

 

2.     Ama and iako may be fashioned from any type of material.  No attachable fins, keels or other devices shall be allowed.

 

3.     Metal material in construction of a non-koa canoe is limited to nuts, screws and bolts.

 

C.    Open Hawaiian Racer Class Canoe Specifications

 

An open class canoe shall follow the requirements of Section VII A and B above, except for hull design specifications.  There are no design restrictions other than those set forth.

 

D.    Open Class Canoe Specifications

 

The canoe shall be a six-man, single hull canoe rigged with a single ama and double iako separated by at least one seat.  It shall not exceed 45 feet in length.  There shall be no mechanical devices or additional attachments for bailing, powering or steering.  Fiberglass canoes must have positive buoyancy with flotation compartments only at the bow and stern of the canoe.

 

E.    Miscellaneous

 

1.     Canoes, equipment, etc., not meeting the specifications shall not be used in MCHCA sanctioned races.

 

2.     During a sanctioned race or regatta, each club is fully responsible for its own equipment and property damage.

 

3.     A canoe or crew deemed unofficial prior to a racing event shall not be permitted to enter the course.

 

4.     New canoes or modifications to any canoes since October 1, 1976, and in the future, must be reported in writing to the Race Committee immediately upon completion.

 

5.     An extra paddle in the canoe is suggested for safety reasons.

 

6.     Each member club shall be held responsible for damages to its own property and/or equipment.  The Association shall not be held responsible for any damages. 1*

 

7.     All official canoes competing in a MCHCA sanctioned regatta must be primarily rigged using a woven type cord.  Rubber enforcements may only be added as an additional wrapping.  Prohibited rigging will include but not limited to, quick straps, any straps using metal bindings and full rubber rigging.  Use of rigging materials other than a woven type cord will result in disqualification of the crew using such rigging.  If a crew is so disqualified, no delay in the regatta will be allowed for a club to change the prohibited rigging.

 

 

F.    HCRA Canoe Number Assignments – Maui County Hawaiian Canoe Association

 

Non-koa canoes (as described above) shall run from number 30 to 49 for Maui. 12*

 

G.    Alphabetical and Numerical Assignments

 

CLUB               Abbreviation                Koa                  Non-Koa

 

HANA                     HA                          30                        30 alpha

HAWAIIAN              HWN                      31                        31 alpha

KAHANA                 KAH                       32A                     32 alpha

KIHEI                      KIH                         33                        33 alpha

LAHAINA                LAH                        34A                     34 alpha

NA KAI EWALU       NKE                       35A                     35 alpha

NAPILI                    NAP                       36                        36 alpha

LAE ULA O KAI 5*   LUK                        37                        37 alpha

WAILEA 8* 16*         WAI                        39                        39 alpha

HUI WAA O LANAI  HWL                       40                        40 alpha

 

VIII.        OFFICIALS

 

A.      Race Director

 

1.       At the beginning of each calendar year, the Board of MCHCA shall elect a Race Director.

 

2.       The Race Director shall:

 

a.       Serve as Race Director for all races and regattas scheduled by MCHCA.

 

b.       Select the members and serve as chairperson of the Race Committee for each race or regatta scheduled by MCHCA

 

c.       Monitor the racing activities of MCHCA member clubs and submit reports and recommendations to the Board of Directors as deemed appropriate.

 

d.       Have an allowance of $300.00 to attend the HCRA championship regatta held on a neighboring island. 15* 22*

 

B.      Race Committee

 

1.       The Race Committee shall consist of the Race Director, Race Secretary 12*, two (2) members and one (1) member from the Race Rules Committee to serve as Parliamentarian.

 

2.       The Race Committee shall on race day preside over and supervise officials at all canoe races scheduled by the Association for the season wherein member clubs participate, and to insure that such races are duly conducted in accordance with the Race Rules and By-Laws of MCHCA.

 

3.       The Race Committee shall conduct the drawing of lanes in all scheduled regattas and inspect equipment when required.

 

4.       The Race Committee shall be responsible for the briefing of all officials and providing each with copies of the Race Rules prior to each regatta. 5*

 

5.       The Race Committee shall make a comprehensive report or critique in writing to the Board of Directors on all races conducted by MCHCA. 22*

 

6.     The following officials may be appointed by the Race Director with the approval of the Race Committee to serve at all races:

 

a.      Not less than two (2) and not more than five (5) Lane Inspectors. 12*

 

b.         At least two (2) Judges to determine the order of finish and violations on turns within their direct line of site.15*

 

c.         Two (2) timers.12*

 

d.         One (1) Starter and not more than two (2) Assistants to watch for infractions on the water.

 

e.         One (1) Head Recorder and at least one assistant from each member club.

 

f.          One (1) Announcer per race/regatta to be provided by the host club.

 

7.     The Race Committee must be fully trained and cognizant of the race rules and responsibilities.

 

8.  The Race Committee shall be provided with official uniforms designated by the Race Committee and provided by MCHCA.

 

9.   Officials shall be provided with official equipment with which they can conduct their               business.

 

a.     Three (3) stop watches for Two (2) Timers. 12*

 

b.     Two (2) sets of walkie-talkies.

 

c.     Starting equipment to include necessary flags.

 

d.     Nine (9) sets of lane flags.

 

e.     Any necessary computer equipment.

 

f.      One video camera to record finishes.

 

C.      Race Rules Committee 5*

 

1.     There shall be a Race Rules Committee.  This Committee shall consist of the Race Rules Chair and a representative from each member club. 20*  The Committee shall:

 

a.     Brief and provide all coaches with copies of the Race Rules prior to the start of the racing season. 12*

 

b.     Hear and render decisions as soon as possible on all protests.

 

Decisions of this Committee on matters under its cognizance shall be binding and final.  However, decisions relative to the interpretation of these Race Rules may be appealed to the Board of Directors.

 

c.     All questions regarding these race rules shall be interpreted by the Race Rules Committee only. 6*

 

D.        Each member club shall be required to provide, at minimum, 2 officials (one for the officials stand and one for the water) at each regatta.  Such officials must be approved by the Race Director (provided that such approval may not be unreasonably withheld).  Failure to provide required officials shall result in a fine of $25 per official per regatta.  19*

 

 

 

IX.           RECEIPT OF ENTRIES AND DRAWING OF LANES

 

A.        Date

 

1.     The Race Director shall designate the place and set the time and date for the receipt of entries and drawing of lanes.  With the exception of the first regatta of the year, such date shall be neither earlier than seven (7) days nor later than two (2) days prior to a regatta. 10*

 

2.    A club, which is unable to attend the drawing at any time and date set, may submit its entries together with the required entry fee to the Race Director at an earlier date.

 

3.   The lane drawing schedule shall be submitted to the Board of Directors no later than the regular meeting just prior to the first lane drawing.

 

4.    The Race Director or other designated Race Committee official shall notify each designated club representative prior to each lane drawing.

 

B.         Lane Drawing

 

1.     The drawing of lanes shall take place after the receipt of entries for all events.

 

2.    Only clubs that have made proper entry and paid the entry fees shall be permitted to draw lanes for any particular race.  The Race Director shall appoint a person to draw lanes for any club properly entered but unable to be properly represented at the drawing.

 

3.    The lanes to be used shall be consecutive and commence with lane #1.  The total number of lanes shall equal the number of entries.  Lane #1 shall be shoreward (for courses parallel and the last lane looking seaward (for courses running generally perpendicular to the shore).

 

4.    The selection of lanes shall be by the various clubs in the order as determined by drawing of lots.  Clubs whose lanes are selected by an appointee of the Race Director shall abide by the lane selection made by the appointee.

 

5.    Seeded lane draw to be performed at the MCHCA Championship regatta only. 16*  Crews with the most points would be allowed to select their lane followed in turn by the crew with the next highest points and so on until all crews have been placed.  A tie breaker for those crews with an equal number of points would be by the highest place finish in the preceding race.10* 11*

 

C.         Entries At Drawing Of Lanes

 

1.     Each club shall be limited to one (1) official entry per event.10*

 

2.    Unofficial crews may enter in any race providing that one lane is open between official entries and unofficial crews.  Unofficial crews must be declared at lane draw.  Entry fee of $15 per canoe is charged for all unofficial races.  If on the day of a regatta, a club buys a lane and no lanes are available for the unofficial entries, affected clubs will receive credit for the following regatta.  No reimbursements will be provided. 10* 18*

 

3.    The prescribed entry fee must accompany each entry unless prepayment has been made with the Race Director/Treasurer of MCHCA.  If a club has a credit balance with the Treasurer to cover the entry fee for any race, the Race Director shall be so notified by the Treasurer prior to lane drawing.

 

4.            Eligible paddlers to paddle the race shall be those properly registered. 22*

 

D.         Late Entries On Race Day

 

Are permitted providing the following stipulations are met:

 

1.     Double entry fee

 

2.     No more than two (2) late official crew entries permitted per club, per regatta. 14*

 

3.     All late official crew entries must be submitted at the coaches’ meeting prior to the start of the regatta. 19*

 

4.     The late official entry crew will receive the next lane available for an official crew, possibly pushing an unofficial entry out another lane in that race.  (All official crews shall be inside of unofficial crews). 19*

 

5.     Clubs may enter/purchase lanes for an unofficial crew at any time during the course of the regatta and shall be assigned the next available lane. 19*

 

E.         Procedures and Forms 23*

 

1.     OEL

a.     For identification purposes, the final entry list shall be known as (MCHCA Form 400).

 

b.     The final entry list (MCHCA Form 400) shall be submitted on the date of the regatta at least five (5) minutes prior to the start of each event.  13* 15*

 

c.     The entry list (MCHCA Form 400) shall contain only six (6) or four (4) [for Open Four Men or Women] names and paddler identification numbers.  These names must appear on (HCRA-ID 500) and (MCHCA Form 200).  The persons who actually paddle the race shall be those names appearing on the entry list. 22*

 

d.     Scratches and substitutions must be submitted to Official Stand five (5) minutes prior to start of the specific event. 23*

 

2.     Official Club Representatives

 

a.     Each club shall submit in writing to the Race Director the names of two persons who shall be the official representative for their clubs on race day.  These names must be submitted no later than lane draw for the first regatta of the year.

 

b.     Only these official representatives will be allowed to approach the Race Director and/or Race Officials.

 

c.     If for any reason one or both of these representatives are unavailable during a regatta, the club may submit the names of one or two alternates to be the official representatives for that regatta.  These names must be submitted prior to the end of the coaches meeting for that regatta.


 

 

3.     MCHCA Records

 

a.     All MCHCA records of entries, races and regattas must be available for inspection/research upon request (verbal or written) within a reasonable time.

 

b.     Race day is not an appropriate time to inspect records.

 

X.       FLAT COURSE RULES

 

A.        Course

 

1.     The official MCHCA racecourse in Kahului Harbor shall be ¼ mile in length; in Kihei ¼ mile or ½ mile in length; in Lahaina shall be ¼ mile or ½ mile in length.  All courses must be laid out in equal lanes, preferably 80 feet wide, but not less than 70 feet wide. 3* 13*

 

2.     Each lane shall be designated by flags of the same color for that lane.  On ¼ mile courses, each lane must have two (2) flags of the same color, one (1) at each end of the course.  For ½ mile courses, each lane must have three (3) flags of the same color, one (1) at each end and one (1) at the ¼ mile midpoint of that ½ mile course.  There is to be no duplication of colors in different lanes except that the first and last lanes may be marked with the same color flags. 3*

 

3.     Flags shall have a minimum dimension of 30 inches, shall be made of lightweight quick-drying cloth, and as far as practicable, shall be covered with solid colors and numbers.

 

4.     The distance between the starting ¼ mile lines and ending ¼ mile lines shall be established by actual measurement of both lane #1 and the last numbered lane to insure that all lines are parallel.  All flags on each line shall be, as nearly as practicable, in a straight line.

 

5.     At least one hour before the first race of a regatta, the Race Director, in company of one representative from each club who wishes, shall inspect, and if requested, re-measure and reset the course to insure that all lanes between any two lines are of equal length.  Moreover, in order for record times to have meaning, the distance between the lanes shall not be allowed to vary from ¼ mile by more than five (5) yards.

 

6.     In the case of a temporary obstacle in the MCHCA race course, the events affected by the obstacle will be run consecutively in two (2) heats.   Lanes and heats are to be determined by lanes drawn at the regularly scheduled lane draw.  Odd numbered lanes will be in heat one (1) and even numbered lanes in heat two (2).  Newly assigned lanes to start with lane one (1) and work out to lane five (5).

 

Heat one (1) those who drew lanes, 1,3,5,7,9   (assigned  lanes = 1 to lane 1;

3  to lane 2; 5 to lane 3; 7 to lane 4; 9 to lane 5)

 

Heat two (2) those who drew lanes 2,4,6,8,10 (assigned lanes = 2 to lane 1;

4 to lane 2; 6 to lane 3; 8 to lane 4; 10 to lane 5)

 

Place winners will be determined by best times from both heats.

 

Temporary obstacle is defined as an obstacle not normally in the official MCHCA race course that will cause interference for crews racing in a specific lane.  A temporary obstacle will be determined by the Race Rules Committee.

 

In the event that the temporary obstacle is located on the inside lanes of the MCHCA race course,  the  Race Rules Committee will decide the consecutive lanes the heats will be run in. 23*

 

B.        Starting

 

1.       All starts shall be in accordance with the instructions from the Starter.  All crews shall watch the Official’s Boat for signals.

 

2.       When the five-minute flag is displayed, all canoes are to go immediately to their assigned lane.

 

a.     Yellow Flag - As soon as the last canoe from a previous race reaches shore, a yellow flag will be displayed from the Official’s Boat, for a maximum of five (5) minutes before the start of a race.12* The exception to this rule shall be staged regattas where the yellow flag will be raised after the last official canoe crosses the finish line.  This exception to the rule shall not apply to Mixed 12 and Mixed Novice B races at said regattas. 21* 22* 23*

 

b.    Yellow Flag – Then, the yellow flag will be waved for a count of five (5) and brought down. 23*

 

c.    Red Flag – The red flag will be raised as the yellow flag is brought down. 23*

 

 

d.    Green Flag – Official Start – the official start will be signified by the raising of the green flag and simultaneous lowering of the red. 23*

 

3.       Two boat holders are permitted, but not required, to assist at the start of any race, provided:

 

a.     Boat holders must be in the water.  Each handler should not block the numbers. 2*

 

b.     Boat holders must release the canoe at the raising of the red flag and must not push or pull the canoe forward at this time. 11*

 

4.       No false starts.

 

5.       Each canoe must start and finish with a full crew. 1*

 

6.       Each canoe must be behind their assigned lane flag at the start of each race.11*

 

7.       The Starter shall not hold up the start for a canoe deliberately lagging behind the Starter’s command to get on the starting line.  A lagging canoe shall not have right of protest on the grounds of an unfair start in the event the race is started.23*

 

8.       Officials shall use judgment and discretion to allow all canoes to arrive at the starting line.23*

 

C.        Recall

 

There is no recall. 10*

 

D.        Adverse

 

1.       Under adverse conditions, at the discretion of the Race Committee, the disqualification rules on burying (total submersion of flag and pole) the flag may be waived on the start only. 11*

 

2.       Under adverse conditions, an open steersman may be used in events #1 thru #7.  The steersperson must be of the same sex as required by the event.

 

E.        Lanes

 

1.         Lane width is defined as the full lateral distance between the adjoining flags.

 

2.         All canoes must remain in their own lanes while passing the lane flags, which shall be to the left of the canoe.  Canoes shall keep their respective lanes throughout the race and in no way interfere with other participating canoes.  Burying of any flag (total submersion of flag and pole) during a race will constitute a disqualification of crews. 11*

 

Note:  If the flag goes between the ama and the canoe, this is a disqualification.   13*

 

3.         Where two (2) canoes approach each other from opposite directions within the same lane, each canoe should occupy as nearly as possible the one-half (1/2) width of the lane nearest its own line of flags so that the canoes will pass each other hull to hull.

 

4.         If interference claims are made, the canoe not in its respective lane will be charged the infraction.

 

F.      Turns

 

1.         All turns shall be left turns around assigned lane flags.  If the flag is buried (total submersion of flag and pole) 4* 11* due to contact with any part of the canoe and/or rigging, the crew will be disqualified; provided that a crew shall not be disqualified for burying its flag, in the judgment of the water official, the crew was forced into burying the flag to avoid a collision with another (interfering) canoe.  This rule shall only apply in situations where the interfering canoe is disqualified.  *16

 

2.         Where canoes assigned to adjoining lanes occupy the same lane during a turning maneuver, each canoe will maneuver in such a way as to occupy as nearly as possible the one-half (1/2) width of lane nearest its own line of flags so that the canoes will pass each other hull to hull.

 

a.     Lead canoes coming out of the turn wide will have the right of way if the following /trailing canoe is in the ½ of the lead canoes lane.11*

 

b.     Lead canoes do not have the right of way if the following canoe is in the rightful ½ of their lane. 11*

 

G.        Swamping

 

A canoe that swamps during a race may be bailed out by its crew and proceed in the race.  Outside assistance is not allowed.

 

H.        Finish

 

All canoes must finish in their assigned lanes.  Once the bow crosses the finish, any part of the canoe may touch the flag or floater. 4*

 

A canoe crossing the finish line may proceed back to the beach with caution; however, it may not re-enter the course while the race is in progress.

 

The official finish order shall be determined by the judges or, in the event of a protest, the Race Rules Committee.  Any mechanical, computer or photographic device or evidence (including but not limited to finish line software, digital or other photography, and videotape) may be used by the judges and/or Race Rules committee to assist in the determination of the order of finish.  In the event of a discrepancy between any mechanical, computer or photographic device or evidence (including but not limited to finish line software, digital or other photography, and videotape) and the official finish order, the official finish order as determined by the race rules committee shall prevail.  The unavailability of such evidence, for whatever reason, shall not be grounds for protest.  16*

 

 

 

I.  Practice canoes/crews

 

Crews are allowed to practice on race day prior to their race with the following rules:

 

1.     Crew will not enter the race course while a race is in progress.  This includes a buffer zone of 40’ (forty feet) on each side of the course.

                           

2.     Crew may cross between the official stand and the start/finish line when a race is not in progress. 15* 23*

 

3.     Crew must be clear of racecourse when yellow starter flag begins to wave. 23*

 

4.     Yellow flag/5 minute rule is still in effect, officials will not wait for a practicing crew that is late approaching the starting line.

 

5.     A practice canoe that does not follow the rules (a) and (b) above will incur a $25 fine for their club per infraction and a crew that does not follow rule (c) above will be fined $25 and disqualified. 13* 15*

 

J. Unofficial Canoes

 

Only one (1) unofficial crew per club per event is allowed.

 

XI       PENALTIES AND DQ’S

 

A.        DQ – Any violation of the following paragraphs shall result in the disqualification of the crew involved.

 

1.         Equipment violations, as specified in Article VI of the Race Rules, shall result in the disqualification of all crews using the equipment in that race.

 

2.         For using an illegal or ineligible paddler in a race, the penalty shall be a disqualification of the entire crew. 1* 14*

 

3.         The penalty for each burying of the flag violation shall be the disqualification of the crews. 12*

 

4.         Collision, interference, or finishing in a wrong lane shall be disqualification of the crew involved.

 

5.         Canoes not turning on their assigned flag shall be disqualified. 22*

 

6.         At the start of a race, all canoes must be behind the starting flags to which they were assigned, free from causing interference. 11*

 

7.         Each canoe must start and finish with a full crew of six (6) paddlers.

 

8.         After crossing the finish line, a canoe re-entering the racecourse or passing between the official stand and the start/finish line while the race is still in progress will be disqualified. 13*

 

A disqualified canoe may continue to race unless, for some specific reason, the Race Committee decides otherwise.

 

B.        Penalties (Fines)

 

All fines must paid by the next drawing of lanes or at the next MCHCA meeting, whichever occurs first; otherwise, the club will be ineligible to draw lanes or vote.  A race or regatta will not be interrupted or stopped because of a disqualification or fine, which must be paid.

 

1.         Unofficial Canoes – The penalty for an unofficial canoe not providing an open lane between them and an official crew or running on the inside of the official crews, shall be a fine for their club of ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00). 13* 14*

 

2.         Any individual, club, association member, associate member, volunteer or MCHCA official who performs acts deemed abusive, destructive, harmful and/or illegal to another individual or individual's property will be subject to a fine of TWO HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($250), criminal charges when indicated, and termination of membership/affiliation with MCHCA.  3*

 

3.         There will be no consumption of alcoholic beverage and/or use of illicit drugs by club members and club visitors during a regatta or race sanctioned/approved by MCHCA.  Any infraction of this rule will result in a fine of TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS ($250) to the club in violation and the paddler will be prohibited from racing that day. 3* 22*

 

4.         There must be an OFFICIAL ENTRY LIST for every crew entered in every event.  If the OEL (Form #400), including any substitutions,23* is not received five (5) minutes prior to the start of the event, the club will be fined the sum of TWENTY-FIVE DOLLARS ($25).  However, once the event has started, the fine will be increased to the sum of ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100). 6* 12* 15*

 

5.         Boat holders caught pushing or pulling a canoe forward to assist in the start of a race (raising of the red flag) shall incur for their club a fine of TWENTY FIVE DOLLARS ($25.00) per violation and the crew shall be disqualified. 11*

 

6.         An unofficial crew starting before the green flag shall incur a fine for their club of FIFTY DOLLARS ($50.00); an unofficial crew over the start line at the start shall incur a fine for their club of TEN DOLLARS ($10.00). 13* 19*

 

  7.      For using an ineligible paddler in a race, the fine shall be TWENTY FIVE DOLLARS ($25) per paddler for the first infraction and FIFTY DOLLARS ($50) per paddler for any additional infraction.  This includes all races, "manini", official and unofficial crews. 15* The fine for an illegal paddler shall be FIFTY DOLLARS ($50) for each paddler. 16*

 

  8.    Any club using any paddler without a properly completed waiver shall be fined TWENTY FIVE DOLLARS ($25) per paddler.  This penalty applies to any paddler participating in any race (including unofficial and manini races) and is in addition to any other penalty imposed by these rules.  16*

 

C.         For Purpose Of Identification

 

1.         Illegal – A person paddling out of his/her qualification and/or under another name.

 

2.         Ineligible – A paddler with incomplete paperwork.

 

XII.        PROTESTS (MCHCA FORM 500 (OPF))

 

A.       A fee of TEN DOLLARS ($10) will accompany any protest filed.  If the protest is upheld, the fee will be returned to the club filing the protest.  If the protest is not upheld, the fee will go into the MCHCA treasury. 12*

 

B.       The intent to file a protest shall be made to the Race Director by the end of the next race. 12* 22*

 

C.      All protests or complaints or rule violations shall be made to the Race Rules Committee within one hour after the finish of that particular race.  Protests shall be submitted by a coach or his representative on official forms provided by MCHCA.  Head coach or clubs involved in a protest shall be notified immediately.  While the Race Rules Committee is hearing and apprising itself of the facts surrounding the protest, only coaches, MCHCA club delegates, officials involved and/or other designated by the Race Rules Committee shall be present.  After the hearing is completed, the Race Rules committee shall immediately exclude all persons, deliberate on the testimony and evidence and render a decision.  Protests, which have been acted upon shall become a part of the MCHCA’s permanent record. 6* 12*

 

D.      Protests pertaining to a judgment call designated by these Race Rules, as such, will not be upheld.  6*

 

E.      All decisions as determined by the Race Rules Committee on protests shall be final.  However, Race Rules Committee decisions can be overturned by the Board of Directors of MCHCA. 6*   In the event  of a tie in the voting the race rules committee chairman shall have the deciding vote. 15*

 

XIII.      QUALIFYING CREWS FOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIP REGATTA

 

A.        Qualification – Member clubs will qualify during the regatta season to participate in the State Championship Regatta.

 

B.        All first place winners totaling the most points, in all points regattas, will automatically qualify for a lane at the State Championship Regatta.  However, a crew may qualify for the 3rd lane at the State Championship Regatta by winning that event at the MCHCA Championship Regatta, thereby eliminating the 3rd highest point qualifier. 15*

 

C.        Other crews will qualify by the point records held of all flat course regattas to fill the remaining lanes at the State Championship Regatta.

 

D.        Methods of qualifying selections shall be established at the discretion of MCHCA.

 

E.        The last qualifying regatta shall be held no later than two (2) weeks prior to the State Championship Regatta.

 

F.        If after their race in the final MCHCA regatta two teams are tied in points, the tie shall be broken by a race-off.  The crews will be allowed a one event break then, using the same six paddlers, will “race-off” at ½ their normal distance (minimum distance ¼ mile).  Participation in a tie breaker does not count as a second event for the regatta.  If a crew is unable to race off with the same six paddlers they will automatically be disqualified and the other crew declared the winner.  13*

 

G.        The winner and second place finisher of the Girls/Boys 12A division automatically goes to the State Race as the first and second representative from Maui County.  The third berth shall be occupied by the team with the lowest average time, based on the three fastest times of the season from the 12A and 12B divisions.  13*

 

H.        A qualifying race-off will be held immediately following the last regularly scheduled event at the final MCHCA Regatta, to determine entries for those events to be held at the State Championship Regatta that are not on the MCHCA ORDER OF REGATTA RACING EVENTS, or any event where the MCHCA qualifiers have not already been determined.  Participation in a race-off is open to any paddler who would be eligible to paddle in that same event at the State Championship Regatta.  A paddler who has already competed in two events or in a non-classified event in the last regatta would still be allowed to compete in any race-off.  Competing in a race-off is not a “step-up” and would not affect a paddler’s classification.

 

INTENT:  All Associations should be ready with their qualified club entries at the drawing of lanes for the State Race.

 

I.          Clubs earning seeds for the State Championship Regatta must declare to the MCHCA Race

Director by 12:00 noon of the Monday following the MCHCA Championship which events their crews will be competing in at the State Championship.  Withdrawing a crew from the State Championship after it has been declared will incur a fine of $399 per crew. 18*

 

J.         Withdrawing a crew is defined as a club not drawing a lane for that crew after previously declaring their intention to compete in the State Championship Regatta in accordance with I. above. 18*

 

XIV.      RACE RULES AMENDMENTS

 

The Race Rules of this Association may be amended, altered, added to or repealed by an affirmative vote of not less than a majority of all board members present at any meeting of the MCHCA Board of Directors and membership duly called and held, with the following provisions:

 

A.      The proposed amendments are presented in written form to the Race Rules Committee for preliminary approval.

 

B.      The Race Rules Chairman shall present the proposed amendments with recommended action to the Board of Directors.

 

C.      All proposed amendments submitted by the Race Rules Committee to the Board of Directors for rule changes, must be submitted no later than the March MCHCA meeting.  All subsequent proposals received after the March meeting would then be reviewed and placed before the MCHCA board of Directors at the conclusion of that racing season. 12* 15*

 

XV.       HOST CLUB’S RESPONSIBILITY - REGATTAS

 

A.       Laying Of Lanes

 

1.       Flags shall be uniformly sized and identified as to color and land placement for every regatta.

 

2.       Starting and finish lane flags shall at all times correspond and be identified by the same flag color in same lanes.

 

3.       The course shall be ready for inspection at least one (1) hour before the start of the regatta.  Preliminary floats, anchors, etc., should be in place on the day before the regatta.

 

4.       Sponsoring clubs shall be fined one hundred dollars ($100) if the course is not ready by one (1) hour later than the stipulated regatta starting time.  (Exception:  emergency causes may be considered upon the approval of the coaches and Race Committee.)

 

B.        Official Boats

 

1.       Sponsoring club shall be responsible for two (2) boats to be provided for inshore regattas distance races sanctioned and/or approved by MCHCA.  One shall be designated as a pickup and official emergency boat, if necessary.

 

2.       Failure to provide these official boats for a portion or the entire race shall result in a fine of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per missing boat.  If a breakdown of one or both of the official boats occurs during the regatta, the Race Rules Committee may determine if this fine or a partial fine will be assessed.

 

C.       Announcer

 

The Host Club must provide an announcer for their regatta 9*

 

D.       Official Lunches

 

It is the responsibility of the sponsoring club to provide lunch for the officials.  A list of the official’s names working on the Official Stand/Official Boats at the time lunch is served (maximum 20) should be submitted to the club at each regatta. (which would include 2 timers, 1 video, 2 computer, 3 intake clerks, 3 file clerks/beach checkers, RD, RS, 1 medals person and 6 boat people.) 23*

 

E.    Score Board

 

Host club to provide a score board for posting results.

 

XVI.      MCHCA’S RESPONSIBILITY - REGATTAS

 

A.            Flags

 

MCHCA shall be responsible for procurement of the flags.  13*

 

B.            Communications

 

MCHCA shall be responsible to provide adequate sound system.  Speakers shall be placed so that all participating clubs can clearly hear any communications from the official stand. 

 

C.            Awards

 

1.             Medals shall be sorted and placed in bags according to events:

 

a.         1st place            -           GOLD

b.         2ND place           -           SILVER

c.         3rd place            -           BRONZE

 

2.             Except in cases of extreme emergency, all medals should be ordered in sufficient time for arrival before the first regatta.

 

3.             In case of a tie regatta, MCHCA shall be responsible for any additional trophies required.


 

 

 XVII.    SURF COURSE RULES

 

When sanctioned races are held in the surf, the foregoing rules shall apply in addition to the following:

 

A.            Course

 

The course shall be laid out as close as possible to the previous year’s course.  The length of the races shall be the same as for the flat course.

 

B.            Open Steersman

 

The open steersman must be a registered member of the participating club.  He/she can participate in an unlimited number of races in that regatta.  Classification is not applicable.

 

C.         Starting

 

            When races are started from the beach, all crewmembers shall be seated in the canoes unless otherwise determined by the Race Director.

 

D.         Surfing

 

Surfing on waves shall be permitted, but no canoe may be allowed to block the normal course or in any way interfere with another in an attempt to pick up or surf on a wave.

 

E.          Passing

 

In races that do not require the canoes to maintain their respective lanes, a canoe that is attempting to pass another shall keep clear at all times and in no way interfere with the canoe it is attempting to pass, nor shall the canoe in the lead attempt to prevent another from passing.

 

F.          Overlap

 

An overlap is defined as a condition existing when no open water can be seen between the stern of one canoe and the bow of another, when viewed at right angles to their course.


ATTACHMENT

 

 

UNOFFICIAL 10*

 

1.             Unofficial Keiki

 

If using an open steersperson (an adult or older age child) in the 12 and 14 events, the steersperson can only poke. 23*

 

2.             For Clarification - Unofficial Crews.

 

a.             If a paddler is entered in two (2) events, one (1) of which is unofficial, that person must paddle the official event first except that a paddler may race in the Manini race and then compete in an official event. 15*

 

b.             Unofficial crew members must meet official crew requirements for gender, number of paddlers, and age but not necessarily classification. Double race rule does not apply.23* Failure to comply with this rule will result in a $25 fine. 15*

 

3.             Manini Races 12*

 

Ten (10) and under event - steersperson may be an adult.23*