Race Officials Conference, 25-26 January 2025, University of Birmingham  

Virtual attendance - Sunday

Thank you for attending as on Online delegate for the RYA Race Officials National Conference 2025

Having trouble viewing the videos on this page? - head to our event playlist

Judging & Umpiring 4: Handling Misconduct & Rule 69 Hearings

09:45 - 10:30 -  Presenters | Chris Lindsay

A presentation and discussion for Qualified Judges and Umpires

Rule 69 addresses misconduct by both sailors and support persons, and the RYA's advice is to initiate a rule 69 process 'sooner rather than later' so that misconduct is addressed before it develops into a more serious issue. A rule 69 investigation and hearing follow a different process from all other hearings, and when correctly followed lead to simpler and less emotional hearings.

This session explains the 4-stage procedure, associated RYA Guidance, penalty ranges, guidelines for deciding a penalty, and how they might be best applied in some typical cases.

Race Officials working as a Team

10:30 - 11:15 - Presenters | Alan Baser

Race Management 5a: The Evolving Sport

11:45 - 12:30 - Presenters | Zed Spencer-Milnes

Aimed at all Race Officers, Mark Layers and RMT members
World Sailing/RYA takes the view that event formats need to develop and evolve - what can we do as Race Management to support, format, variety etc.

Ensuring Safe Delivery of Racing Activity

13:30 - 14:30 - Presenters | Niall McLeod

Sailing is by its nature an unpredictable sport and therefore inherently involves an element of risk. Those words will be familiar to many as the opening sentence of the RYA’s recommended risk statement for Notices of Race, but what does it actually mean? This session will also discuss the expectations on all of us who are organising, delivering, or officiating at events, ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Race Management 6a: Day in the Life of a PRO

14:45 - 15:30 - Presenters | Mark Wood, Tim Hancock

Aimed at all Race Officers

Like a swan, a PRO provides a calm appearance while managing numerous different things. Hear from some experienced race officers about their daily routine as a PRO along with their top tips for success.

Closing the conference with Niall McLeod

11:45 - 12:30 - Presenters | Niall McLeod

FAQ’s

Q: Do I need any special software or equipment to attend the conference?

A: You don’t need to install any software to attend the conference, you’ll be able to access the videos via your web browser or YouTube app on a mobile device. You don’t need a webcam and microphone.

Q: Why can’t I find the videos if I search the RYA YouTube page?

A: As the content is for attendees only, the video links are hidden from the public. You will only be able to access the videos via the links above.

Q: How long will on demand content be available for after the event?

A: conference content will be available on the links above if you wish to rewatch any of the content.

Q: Can I talk to other attendees?

A: There is no dedicated area to chat, but you’re welcome to use the chat facility during the sessions. Please be aware that anyone viewing the video will be able to view the chat stream.

Q: What if I have a question about the conference event itself?

A: If you have any questions about the event then please contact:  raceofficials@rya.org.uk