Race Rules

  1. A U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devide and hard-shell helmet must be worn during all on-water events.
  2. Competitors must aid any racer in serious personal danger during the race. Failure to do so shall result in lifelong banning from the GRWCR.
  3. Any competitor who fails to remain on the indicated course or who makes a portage or portages not marked as mandatory shall be disqualified.
  4. Racing bibs must be worn by the bow or solo paddler and must be visible at the finish line. Race bibs must be surrendered at the end of each day for the racer’s times to count.
  5. When passing another racer it is your duty to keep clear of their boat and paddle. When being passed, a racer may not alter course in order to block their competitor.
  6. Canoes shall be propelled solely by means of single-bladed paddles. Kayaks shall be propelled only by double-bladed paddles.
  7. The paddles may not be supported on the boat in any way.
  8. An upright boat with its starting competitors having completed the entire course will constitute a legitimate finish. The finish line is reached when any part of the upright boat with paddlers in it crosses the finish line.
  9. Competitors attempting to win by dishonorable or unsportsmanlike means will be disqualified.
  10. Bow and stern lines at least 6 feet in length are required on all canoes and the must have 6” grab loops of at least 1/4” diameter rope.
  11. There shall be no device to remove water from canoes other than bailing scoops and sponges.
  12. flotation shall be sufficient to float the boat if swamped. Additional flotation (such as tubes) is encouraged.
  13. There shall be no attachments to the exterior of the hull between the water line and the gunwale other than splash rail of no more tha 1 1/2” width.
  14. At the discretion of a Race Official, any competitor consuming or influenced by alcohol may be disqualified.
  15. Any boat withdrawn from the race must notify the officials as soon as possible and surrender the race bib.
  16. The same boat and competitors must be used for the entirety of the race each day. If one member drops out, then the team and canoe are disqualified for that race.
  17. No supplies, provisions or equipment of any kind may be picked up along the course.
  18. Boats may be started in mass or in single heats as determined by the Race Committee.
  19. A protest made during the competition must be addressed to the Race Chairman no later than one hour after completion of the race. A decision will be rendered by the Race Committee.
  20. All decisions made by the race officials will be final.
  21. Safety boaters/personell are race officials. Racers will follow their direction.
  22. You may enter the same class both days, best time counts, or switch partners and/or classes each day. Entry fees required for each race entered.
  23. Only amateur paddlers may compete.
  24. Situations not covered by these rules will be judged according to ACA Whitewater Open Canoe racing rules.