RYA Racing Charter
The club adheres to the RYA racing charter which is as follows:-
Objectives
To provide the framework for everyone to enjoy the sport of sail boat racing in whatever capacity and to whatever level the individual desires.
To ensure that the sport of sail boat racing welcomes all people and treats them equally
To ensure that those who experience sail boat racing are encouraged to continue.
Principles and Practices
The sport welcomes all participants; it relies largely on self-compliance and self-policing. Those that deliberately take unfair advantage of this or behave in an inappropriate manner, either on or off the water, can expect action to be taken against them.
Competitors agree to compete in compliance with the rules and behave in accordance with accepted standards of sailboat racing. When involved in a genuine dispute, all parties to the dispute and those deciding the matter will use the established procedures for achieving resolution.
Foul or abusive language, intimidation, aggressive behaviour or lack of respect for others and their property will not be tolerated.
Organizers, officials and other providers of sailboat racing agree to provide the fairest racing possible. This includes encouraging feed-back and facilitating the resolution of genuine disputes (including protests) in a timely and proper manner.
Support persons agree to encourage their competitors to behave in compliance with the above principles and practices. This Charter applies equally to those who organize, manage, coach, advise, judge, provide services and compete (including those who support competitors) in sailboat racing. The RYA encourages the adoption and implementation of this Charter, and provides guidance and support to individuals and organizations to assist implementation. This guidance and support is consistent with the practices of World Sailing.
Application of the RYA Racing Charter
Through the Racing Charter, the RYA seeks to promote fair and enjoyable racing for all.
What competitors should expect
Racing that, as far as possible, is fair, enjoyable and safe.
Shore facilities, administration and race management to acceptable standards and appropriate to the event.
A way to complain or make a suggestion, and a response to complaints and suggestions.
Prompt resolution of any disputes.
What is expected of competitors, their coaches, managers and supporters
Courtesy and respect to other competitors, officials and other users of the water, both afloat and ashore.
Compliance with the rules, and the taking of a penalty when required by the rules.
Use of the provided services to resolve any disputes.
Resolution of racing disputes
The RYA encourages the adoption of the Exoneration Penalty, Advisory Hearings and RYA Arbitration in addition to protest hearings to improve the understanding of and compliance with the Racing Rules of Sailing which can be found on the RYA website.
Unacceptable behaviour
The RYA encourages the use of rule 69 and rule 2 to penalise and deter unacceptable behaviour both on and off the water. Guidelines on their application in the UK are on page 198 of the RYA Racing Rules of Sailing (‘Misconduct’).
More information can be found on the RYA website.
