Are you interested in qualifying as an SRA umpire?
What does being an SRA umpire involve?
- Umpiring skiff races at events run under SRA Rules of racing, typically from a launch for sprint events or from the bank for distance events
- Finish line judge
Are there any pre-requisites?
No – none specifically but it’s useful if you have raced previously, skiffing or rowing. Also useful is to have previously driven an umpiring launch following races and be prepared to do so as part of the training process and afterwards.
If you’re keen to support the sport of Skiff Racing and promote safe, fair racing, upholding standards and enjoy encouraging racing – from Juniors through to Veterans, then this is a role you’ll enjoy.
What is the process?
- Anyone interested to qualify as an SRA umpire is recommended to first have an informal chat with any qualified Umpire to understand better what is involved and the process. EMail Secretary@skiffing.org.uk if you would like help to get in contact with an umpire. Once decided that you would like to go ahead, please discuss with your Club Captain, who will submit your request to the Hon. Secretary of the SRA
- A member of the Umpires Sub Committee will then get in touch with you and help you prepare for the Umpires written Test. This is a short paper with questions about the Rules of Racing. The Test can be done in person or on line at a mutually convenient time. It takes about 90 minutes with a pass mark of 80%. To prepare you will need to have studied the Rules of Racing and be familiar with all the SRA Handbook content. The Handbook can be accessed at www.skiffing.org.uk.
- In parallel with preparing for the Test you will be asked to attend Events and assist as an official eg Start Marshall, Launch driver or as a Bank official at distance events. You will be listed as a Probationary Umpire for Regatta Secretaries to contact you. Once you have passed the Test you will be able to:
- Umpire races under the supervision of a qualified umpire
- Umpire processional races without supervision
- Act as a line judge
- Once you have demonstrated competency at a number of regattas at different locations and in different roles you will be recommended to the SRA to be listed as a fully qualified SRA umpire
What happens next?
- You will need to make sure you have your own set of Umpires flags and a stop watch. Umpires are requested to wear a blazer or jacket when officiating.
- Regatta Secretaries will invite you to officiate at Regattas throughout the season. Typically the request is for half a day – morning or afternoon.
Are you already (or have been) a Licensed British Rowing Umpire?
If so, you may also officiate at an Event run under SRA Rules. No further qualification is needed. The Race Committee of the Regatta will make you aware of the few salient differences between SRA and BR Rules of Racing
