EventsEntering CompetitionsRules of Racing Rules of Racing The Rules of Racing apply to all rowing and sculling races, events and regattas that are registered by British Rowing. The purposes of the Rules of Racing are to: Provide a basis for safe, fair, and equal racing. Ensure that due notice is taken of the RowSafe Guidance. Provide a consistent framework for the regulation and organisation of rowing competitions. The Rules of Racing specifically cover: Classification of Competitors The Personal Ranking System Classification of Events Competition Organisation Conduct of the Race Racing Disputes and Disciplinary Procedures With appendices covering: A Glossary of Terms Essential Equipment for Officials Primary Events Additional Para-Rowing and Adaptive Requirements Stable Boat Competitions Offshore Rowing Competition Rules Beach Sprints Competition Rules Masters Handicap System Download the 2020 Rules of Racing. Aligned to the Rules of Racing, please read our guidance on sponsorship and partnership marketing for events and clubs. Rules of Racing and Changes for 2020 (With effect from 1 April, 2020) Many of the changes for 2020 are superficial but there are three bigger changes. 1 – Juniors: there is a new rule (2-3) to allow limited school year rowing at competitions. This is on application to the National Competition Committee and only lasts for the school year. 2 – Control Commission: the RowSafe guidance for backstays to be fitted on the forward port and starboard riggers of all boats other than single sculls has been incorporated into rule 7-2-8. The requirement for blades to be painted in club colours has been dropped. 3 – Administration: organising committees can now say which clubs have entered their event, as long as they do not say which boat classes they have entered (rule 5-5-3b). A PowerPoint presentation detailing the main changes is available here. There are other minor changes in wording to bring the rules up to date, remove inconsistencies, and add clarification where it is thought it was needed. The Rules of Racing Panel welcome suggestions in how rules can be improved, or if new rules are needed so please get in touch. Archive 2019 Rules of Racing 2018 Rules of Racing 2017 Rules of Racing 2016 Rules of Racing 2015 Rules of Racing 2014 Rules of Racing 2013 Rules of Racing