The following sections are included as annexes:
1. The GAP scoring system. Issued 15/7/98
2. Guidelines for intending pilots. Issued
10/8/98
2. History of major competitions. Issued
17/7/98
Other Competition Reference material is available from the HGFA office:
FAI Sporting Code - General Section
FAI Sporting Code - Section 7
Entry Level Competitions and Fly-ins -
Organisational guidelines
Competition Organisers Handbook &
Sanction application forms
Special Focus events - sample rules and
organisational guidelines
The HGFA Management Procedures Manual
and Competitions Committee Terms of Reference
Issue Notes
Initial Issue: 4th December 1990. Prepared by Paul Mollison with contributions from Ian Jarman and jenny Ganderton. Input from Steve Blenkinsop, Craig Worth and a host of pilots.
2nd Edition: 2nd October 1995. Revised by Paul Mollison with input from Neva Bull, Ian Jarman, Garry Fimeri, Ian Ladyman, Mark Newland, Steve Moyes, Craig Worth, and many others.
3rd Edition: 17th December 1997. Revised by Paul Mollison, Ian Jarman, Mike Zupanc, Ian Ladyman, Garry Fimeri, Neva Bull, Heike Hamann, Mark Newland, David Mills and many others. Input for the Gap scoring system is from Gerolf Heinrichs, Angelo Crapanzano and Paul Mollison.
4th Edition: 17 Th
August 1998 Revised by Mike Zupanc, David Mills, Heike Hamann, Mark Newland
and Ian Jarman and others.
Amendment. 4th September 98 2.3.1.1 Aero/Gyro, moved/added.
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 DISCLAIMER
1.2 BASIC
OBJECTIVES OF THE HGFA COMPETITIONS SYSTEM
1.3 AIMS
OF THE COMPETITIONS MANUAL
1.4 THE
HGFA COMPETITIONS COMMITTEE
2
COMPETITION RULES
2.1 GENERAL
2.1 Scope
2.1.2
Interpretation
2.1.3
Exceptions
2.2 COMPETITION
ENTRY
2.2.1
Pilot Acceptance
2.2.2
Pilot Qualifications
2.3 COMPETITION
CLASSES, GRADES AND AWARDS
2.3.1.1
FAI class 1
2.3.1.2
FAI class 2
2.3.1.3
FAI class 3
2.3.1.4
FAI class 4
2.3.2
Grades of Competition
2.3.3
Awards
2.3.4
Teams Competition
2.4 COMPETITION
FORMAT
2.4.1
Groups
2.4.2
Competitions with Elimination Rounds
2.4.3
Rounds
2.5 TASKS
2.5.1
Races
2.5.2
Open Distance tasks
2.5.3
Task Notification
2.5.4
Task Cancellation
2.5.5
Starting the Task
2.5.5.1
Validating starts using Photographs
2.5.5.1.1
Start Tarp
2.5.5.1.2
Start Gate
2.5.5.2
Manual timing at launch
2.5.6
Finishing the Task
2.5.6.1
Manned Goals
2.5.6.1
Unmanned Goals
2.5.7
Distance Measurement
2.5.7.1
Minimum Distance
2.6 Setup
and Launch
2.6.1
Setup Procedures
2.6.2
Launch Procedures
2.6.2.1
General Launch Rules
2.6.2.1.1
Launch Closure
2.6.2.1.2
Launch Validity
2.6.2.1.3
Class 3 Failure to Launch
2.6.2.1.4
Pilot Wishing to Refly
2.6.2.2
Open Window Launch Rules
2.6.2.3
Determined Launch Order Rules - With Push
2.6.2.3.1
Launch Order
2.6.2.3.2
Take off line
2.6.2.3.3
Pushing Rules
2.6.2.3.4
Alternate Launch
2.6.2.4
Open Window and Determined Launch Order Combination
2.6.2.5
Determined Launch Order Rules - Without Push
2.6.2.5.1
Launch Order
2.6.2.5.2
Take-off Line
2.6.2.5.3
Launch rules
2.6.2.5.4
Reflies
2.6.2.5.5
Multiple launch areas
2.7 LANDING
PROCEDURES
2.7.1
Definition
2.7.2
Clearing the landing area
2.8 FLIGHT
VERIFICATION
2.8.1
Manned Turnpoints
2.8.2
Photographic Turnpoints
2.8.2.1
Turnpoint Photos Section 7 6.6
2.8.2.2
Backup Films
2.8.2.3
Elapsed time Verification
2.8.2.4
Penalties
2.8.3
Landing Verification
2.9 EMERGENCIES
2.10
PENALTIES AND DISCIPLINARY ACTION
2.10.1
Severity of Penalties
2.10.2
Technical Infringements
2.10.3
Serious Infringements
2.10.4
Unsporting Behaviour
2.10.5
Application of penalties
2.10.6
Disqualification
2.11
COMPLAINTS AND PROTESTS
2.12
SCORING
2.13
GLIDERS and EQUIPMENT
2.13.1
Standard of Equipment
2.13.2
Preparation for Flight
2.13.3
Flight Limitations
2.13.4
Damage to a Competing Glider
2.13.5
Glider Identification
2.13.6
Protective and Safety Equipment
2.13.7
Radios
2.13.8
Ballast
2.13.9
Navigation Equipment
2.13.10
Cameras
2.13.11
Propulsion
2.14
PILOT RESPONSIBILITY
2.14.1
Fitness
2.14.2
Collision Avoidance
2.14.3
Cloud Flying
2.14.4
Civil Aviation Orders
2.14.5
Private Property
2.14.6
Forms
2.14.7
Keeping Informed
2.15
COMPETITION DETAILS
3 NATIONAL
LADDERS
3.1 OBJECTIVES
3.2 GENERAL
3.3 LADDER
POINTS CALCULATION
3.3.1
Competition Based Ladder
3.3.2
Round Based Ladder
3.3.2.1
Competition Sanction Points
3.3.2.2
Competition Validity
3.4 PILOT
LADDER POINTS CALCULATION WHERE HGFA STANDARD RULES AND SCORING SYSTEM
IS USED
3.4.1
Competitions without Elimination Rounds
3.4.1.1
Competition Based Ladder
3.4.1.2
Round Based Ladder
3.4.1.3
Competitions with Elimination Rounds
3.4.1.3.1
Pilots who qualify for the final group
3.4.1.3.2
Pilots who fail to qualify for the final group
3.4.2
Where Alternate Rules and Scoring Systems are Used
3.5 PILOT
GRADING
3.6 AWARDS
3.6.1
Australian Champion
3.6.2
Women's Champion
3.7 REQUIREMENTS
FOR SANCTION OF COMPETITION
3.7.1
Objectives
3.7.2
Applications For HGFA Sanction
3.7.2.1
Timetable for Sanction Applications
3.7.2.1.1
Sanction Application
3.7.2.1.2
Confirmation of sanction
3.7.3
Criteria for Assessment of Grade of Sanction
3.7.4
Competitions with Alternative Competition Rules and/or Scoring Systems
3.7.5
Technical delegate
3.7.6
Task and Protest committee
3.7.7
Determination of Competition Difficulty Factor
4
NATIONAL TEAMS SELECTION
4.1 INTRODUCTION
4.2 THE
SELECTION PROCESS
4.2.1
Team Nomination
4.2.1.1
Team selection for class 3 competitions
4.2.2
Firm Positions in National Teams
4.2.3
Notification Letters
4.2.3.1
To pilots who hold firm positions
4.2.3.2
To pilots who hold positions subject to challenge
4.2.3.3
To those pilots who are able to challenge
4.2.3.4
Pilots with the right to Challenge Nominated Team Positions
4.2.4
Challenges
4.3 SELECTION
PANEL
4.4 CRITERIA
FOR DETERMINING VALIDITY OF A CHALLENGE
4.4.1
Criteria Group A
4.4.2
Criteria Group B
4.5 OTHER
REQUIREMENTS
4.5.1
Timetable
4.5.2
Written Agreement with HGFA
The Hang Gliding Federation of Australia produces this competition manual as a guide for competition pilots and to the conduct of hang gliding and paragliding competitions within Australia.
This manual is updated and reprinted by the Competitions Committee of the HGFA in the interests of fostering development of the competitive aspects of the sport and to provide information for practicing and intending competition pilots. This manual should be read in conjunction with the General Section and Section 7 of the FAI Sporting Code available from the HGFA office.
The HGFA also has a number of other documents relating to various aspects and levels of competitive hang gliding and paragliding. These include; the Competition Organisers Handbook and Sanction Application forms as well as the Club Fly-in Package for low key club comps and fly-ins. A list of annexes and other reference material is included at the rear of this manual.
Constructive comment and or additional material for inclusion in future editions of this manual are always welcome and may be forwarded to:
The Conveyor;
Competitions Committee
C/- The Executive Director;
HGFA,
PO Box 558, Tumut NSW 2720.
The information contained in this manual is presented in good faith with the intention of:
If you notice any errors or omissions please advise the Competitions Committee Convenor or Executive Director of the HGFA.
1.2 BASIC OBJECTIVES OF THE HGFA COMPETITIONS SYSTEM
The information contained in this manual is presented in good faith with the intention of:
Within HGFA a Competitions Committee has been formed to assist with the discharging of the responsibilities of HGFA in the coordination and promotion of the competitive aspects of the sport at all levels. The Competitions Committee is accountable for the efficient discharge of its responsibilities to a general meeting of the HGFA and shall present a full report of their activities to the annual general meeting.
The complete Terms of Reference for this committee can be found in the HGFA Management Procedures Manual where the functions and responsibilities of all HGFA sub-committees are defined.
These rules are intended to be read in conjunction with the FAI Sporting Code - General Section, and the Sporting Code for hang gliders (Section 7).
Specific details for each competition
are prepared by the Meet Director and from Section 2.15 of these rules.
2.1.2
Interpretation
When necessary, interpretation of these
rules shall be made by the Meet Director after discussion with primary
competition officials.Where there is conflict between the FAI sporting
codes and these rules, then these rules shall take precedence.
All rule interpretations shall be
using the English language.
Exceptions to the rules are not allowed when the rules are definite and feasible. If compliance is not feasible, the Meet Director shall make the necessary exceptions. Competitors shall be informed by:
Competitors may not be substituted, changed to another Class nor change their glider except in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 2.13.4. Section 7 4.18.4
Acceptance of pilots to compete in A, AA, AAA sanctioned competitions shall be in order of priority as follows:
Priority one: A Grade Australian Pilots in order of national ladder ranking up to and including the pilot ranked 30 on the National Ladder.
Priority two: Australian pilots, nominated by states or regions as necessary to allow a minimum participation of four pilots from each state or region.
Priority three: Overseas pilots (Top 50 ranking) subject to a maximum of 15 percent of the field.
Priority four: Wild card entries at the discretion of the Competition Organiser. The number of wild card entries is limited to a maximum of three.
Priority five: HGFA affiliated club teams of four nominated for determination of champion club.
Priority six: Individual Australian pilots, in order of national ladder ranking up to and including the pilot ranked 75 on the national ladder.
Priority seven: Female and Masters class pilots sufficient to ensure reasonable competitions for any trophies awarded in these categories.
Priority eight: Overseas pilots, (top 100 ranking) subject to a maximum of 20 percent of the field for overseas pilots (including pilots from priority three above but excluding any wild card entries).
Priority nine: Other pilots in order of application.
Intending pilots must register prior to the registration deadline. Late entries shall only be allowed at the discretion of the Meet Director. The competition is open to all pilots who comply with the following requirements:
Where pilots withdraw from the competition prior to the conduct of the first round, a substitute entry may be allowed in the event that the first round draw includes the pilot that has withdrawn.
2.3 COMPETITION CLASSES, GRADES AND AWARDS
"Hang Glider" means a glider, or a powered paraglider, having an empty weight not exceeding 70kg. CAO 95.8
"Hang Glider" means a glider capable of being carried, foot launched and landed solely by the use of the pilot's legs. General section 2.2.1.13
The following class definitions apply. Details of the classes for which the competition is to be conducted, are to be detailed to the competitors, using paragraph 2.15 of these rules.
Due to the profusion of different gliders appearing in competitions, a system of classes has been introduced to organise the different designs.
These definitions are not meant to be design specifications, instead they are design philosophies.
The area of class definitions is a new concept internationally, and as such, is in the process of evolution.
These rules are meant to encompass "traditional" design hang gliders.
Prototype or experimental designs are automatically open class irrespective of their intended class.
All provisions of 2.13 must be complied with.
With respect to class 1 hang gliders, although there are 4 sub-classes, typically only three would be used in a competition.
AAA and AA sanction events would not generally encourage novice pilots as this could place unacceptable safety considerations on these pilots in a highly competitive environment. Intermediate class would typically be omitted, and experienced pilots would typically fill standard class.
Low sanction competitions may wish to combine standard and intermediate classes with the aim of mixing experienced pilots flying standard gliders, with less experienced pilots flying standard and intermediate class gliders.
Hang gliders having a rigid primary structure with pilot weight shift as the primary method of control, and which are able to demonstrate consistent ability to safely takeoff and land in nil-wind conditions.
For the purpose of demonstration, nil-wind shall mean a headwind of less than 1m/s (3.6 km/h or 2.2 m/h) Section 7 1.4.2.1
The aim is to have a slow and predictable glider that is comparatively light and inexpensive.
Gliders such as Gyro, Buzz, Fun, Mars, Ventura, or similar recognised design.
They will be made from conventional symmetrical tubing, braced with conventional wire and covered with conventional sailcloth.
A grade pilots will not be eligible to compete on this class of glider.
The aim is to have a glider that is suitable for pilots of lesser experience to safely and comfortably compete.
Gliders such as Aero, Max, XT, Mission, Sting, Rage.
They will be made from conventional symmetrical tubing, braced with conventional wire and covered with conventional sailcloth.
The aim is to have a glider that is affordable compared with lower classed gliders.
This class will encompass all the existing and previous, recognised, high performance gliders that fall within the design philosophy.
Hang gliders having a rigid primary structure with movable aerodynamic surfaces as the primary method of control in at least two axes, and which are able to demonstrate consistent ability to safely takeoff and land in nil-wind conditions.
For the purpose of demonstration, nil-wind shall mean a headwind of less than 1m/s (3.6 km/h or 2.2 m/h) Section 7 1.4.2.2
Any FAI class 2 Hang glider
Provisions regarding foot launching must be strictly adhered to. Any flight made with the assistance of skids or wheels will change the class definition of the glider for that flight.
Hang gliders having no rigid primary structure (paragliders), and which are able to demonstrate consistent ability to safely takeoff and land in nil-wind conditions.
For the purpose of demonstration, nil-wind shall mean a headwind of less than 1m/s (3.6 km/h or 2.2 m/h) Section 7 1.4.2.3
The aim is to have gliders that are can be safely flown in competitions by non-professional pilots.
Hang gliders that are unable to demonstrate consistent ability to safely launch and/or land in nil-wind conditions. Section 7 1.4.2.4
A glider shall fly throughout the championships as a single structural entity using the same standard of components used on the first day. Concessions to this rule are made to cover essential repairs. Section 7 5.12.3
Airworthiness checks. At any time during the championships, the organisers have the right to inspect any competing glider and, if necessary, ground it for safety reasons. Section 7 5.12.5
Details of the grades for which the competition is to be conducted, are to be detailed to the competitors, using paragraph 2.15 of these rules.
For a definition regarding pilot grades see: 3.5 Pilot grading.
Where the competition is conducted in OPEN Grade or B grade, the following provision apply:
Pilots grading shall be as determined by the most recent issue of the Australian National Ladder. Overseas pilots and A grade pilots must compete in OPEN grade.
A minimum of four rounds with a day quality value greater than zero must be run before a Champion is declared and the competition is declared valid.
The pilot who at the conclusion of the meet has accumulated the highest score in each class shall be declared the Competition Champion.
The B grade pilot with the highest score at the end of the competition will be declared the B Grade champion.
Details of all prizes to be awarded shall be detailed to the competitors using paragraph 2.15.
Where a pilot wins in more than one category then that pilot shall be awarded prizes for each category as detailed in paragraph 2.15.
Prizes shall be awarded if the following required number of pilots compete:
| 1st Place | 2nd Place | 3rd Place | |
| Minimum No. of competitors in each class, grade or category | 3 | 5 | 10 |
Competitors on open class gliders will not be eligible for a B or C grade prize.
Masters class is removed from the Comp manual. A (open grade pilots), B and C grade will remain, as will the women's class.
Any team score shall be determined from the total scores of pilots representing half the official team size (rounded up), calculated on each scoring day.
The competition will be conducted in the format specified in paragraph 2.15 of these rules.
The format shall be one of the following:
Where the competition is to be conducted with elimination rounds and final rounds the following provisions apply:
(2) formed into a single group for further competition rounds. as specified in paragraph 2.15.
The competition shall not conclude before the last competition day as allocated in the competition schedule.
The Director may declare a rest day after six consecutive days except on the last competition day. The policy on rest days shall be declared before the first competition day. Section 7 5.23
Tasks shall be either:
Race tasks will be along prescribed courses with or without turn points.
Pilots who do not complete the task shall be scored according to the distance flown. The scoring distance is the sum of the legs of the course completed (including incomplete leg) in the designated order. An incomplete leg is the length of that leg less the distance between the landing place and the next turn point, or goal, with the provision that any subtracted distance cannot be greater than that to the last correctly controlled turn point or start point.
The scoring distance is measured from the start point to the landing point.
The task for the round will be announced at a pilot briefing. A large scale map shall be posted on the launch notice board at least 15 minutes before the launch is declared open.
This map shall detail the task, including start points, turn points, goal, the reflight area and any areas to which entry is restricted.
The Competition Director may provide map coordinates or latitude and longitude of start points, turn points and goal. Where this information is provided it is provided in the form of advisory information only. Pilots intending to use this information for the purposes of navigation should establish for themselves the correct information for use with their particular navigation equipment. Where this reference information, as provided by the organiser, is subsequently found to be in error, the error will not be considered as grounds for complaint or protest.
The director may cancel a task before any competitor has taken off if the weather becomes unsuitable. The director has the power to suspend or cancel a task after some or all pilots have taken off only in an emergency resulting from hazardous weather or other conditions which could not be avoided by the pilots and which would endanger their safety. If flying is suspended only for a short period the Director need not cancel the task. Section 7 5.19.6
Cancellations shall be announced at takeoff and broadcast on the official radio frequency. Other forms of announcement may be published and announced before the start of the competition.
If the task is cancelled pilots are directed to land as soon as possible at a safe location and to inform the competition director of their landing in the usual way. No points (except for certain penalties see 2.10.2) will be awarded if a competition round is cancelled.
Pilots will be timed from launch, and/or the crossing of a start point. Where manual timing is used times shall be recorded to the nearest second.
2.5.5.1 Validating starts using Photographs
Where a start point requires a pilot to photograph a start tarp or start gate the rules relating to photographic turn points apply except that:
There a start point incorporates a start tarp the onus is on the pilot to provide a photograph that, without doubt, shows the start tarp in the open position. Where a pilot provides a photograph that fails to show the correct start tarp signal then his start time will be taken as the time of launch of the first competitor to launch.
Where data back cameras are used to determine the start time the onus is on the pilot to provide a photograph of the start gate that without doubt, shows his start time. All start times measured in this way shall be rounded to the nearest minute. Where a pilot provides a photograph that fails to show a recognisable time, then the pilot will be awarded a start time equal to the earliest start time of the pilots in goal (or window open time if no other pilot makes the goal), and a finish time equal to the last pilot in goal, disregarding finish time penalties that may be applied to some pilots.
2.5.5.2 Manual timing at launch
Where launch times are used for performance measurement the launch shall be manned by timing officials for a period as specified on the launch notice board or as notified at briefing. Pilots who launch after this time shall have the time at which the launch officials cease recording launch times as their start time.
To achieve the goal a pilot must cross the finish line at an altitude that enables easy identification by goal officials. In classes 1,2 and 4, a pilot is considered to have crossed the finish line when the nose of the glider cuts the finish line in the correct direction, using only the energy of the glider but not of the pilot. In class 3 the line is crossed when a pilots foot cuts the line under the same conditions. Section 7 5.28.5
Pilots who complete the course shall have their time recorded. All elapsed times shall be rounded up or down to at least the nearest half minute.
Where a goal official fails to record the time of a pilot, and there is no doubt that the pilot correctly crossed the goal line then a finish time shall be determined by the goal officials using all available evidence. Where competitors can provide a verifiable time stamped photograph, taken from a photo sector aligned from each end of the goal line back along the path from the last turn point (or launch) then the time shown on this photo may be used to determine a pilots finish time, only in the case where goal officials fail to record the finish time.
Where data back cameras are used to determine the finish time the onus is on the pilot to provide an inflight photograph of the goal line that without doubt, shows his finish time. All finish times measured in this way shall be rounded to the nearest minute.
In determining that a pilot has crossed the finish line, when his picture is analysed, the rules for photographic turn points will apply.
All distances will be measured to the nearest 100 metres flown, as determined by linear measurement on 1:100000 or 1:250000 topographical maps, as available. All distances are measured from the start point (or launch in the cases where no start point is specified) via correctly controlled turn points and are rounded to nearest 0.5 kilometre for the purpose of determining a pilots score. (Please refer to the official scoring system, GAP, for further details)
The minimum distance awarded shall be nominated at the preflight briefing or as included in the approved scoring system.
All pilots shall co-operate with the launch director to ensure that launches proceed smoothly. They shall setup in the position allocated by the launch director after first obtaining permission from the launch director or his assistants.
Pilots who disobey a direction of the launch director will on the first occasion be issued a warning. Subsequent failures to co-operate will lead to the awarding of penalty points. Refer 2.10
Immediately before a pilot launches, their glider shall be subject to a preflight inspection, which shall include a hang check.
Where possible the launch shall be open window. Where sites and/or conditions do not allow open window launches then a predetermined launch order, or a combination of an open window launch and predetermined launch order shall be used.
Launch details to be nominated at the preflight briefing include:
Rules in this section apply to all launch procedures.
If conditions change and it is no longer possible to safely takeoff the launch shall be closed until conditions improve. The closure of the launch is at the discretion of the Launch Director. Pilots shall only be allowed (or required) to launch when the launch is open. If launch is closed, then a pilot required to launch shall be allowed the full period of allotted time after the launch is reopened.
The round shall be valid if the launch(es) remained open for the time calculated from
The required minimum number of pilots to launch for the first round is all pilots who are setup, must have the opportunity to launch. For subsequent rounds the minimum number of pilots shall reduce by ten percent for each valid round conducted but shall always comprise at least half the pilots remaining in the competition.
2.6.2.1.3 Class 3 Failure to Launch
A failed launch is defined as a launch attempt resulting in the glider being required to be laid out again. Requiring an assistant to untangle a twisted line, or remove an entanglement present during inflation is not classified as a failed launch unless the entanglement was caused by the glider striking an object after the pilot started their takeoff run.
Following an unsuccessful takeoff attempt a pilot may be allowed to launch from further down the launch area provided that the glider is not required to be laid out again and that the launch is completed within the allotted time.
A launch deliberately aborted due to safety reasons, which, in the opinion of the launch director are outside the control of the pilot, shall not be classed as a failed launch.
2.6.2.1.4 Pilot Wishing to Refly
There are no restrictions on the number of flights in any one day. To qualify for a reflight pilots must land in a designated reflight area. The pilot may be required to photograph his glider in the reflight area before it is dismantled and re-photograph the day board prior to each reflight. A pilots score will be determined on the basis of performance on the last launch in any one round.
Pilots who require a reflight shall not enter the takeoff line until all pilots who wish to enter the take off line for their first flights have done so.
2.6.2.2 Open Window Launch Rules
The rules in this section apply to open window launch procedures.
For open window (free take-off without any set order) to be used the following conditions apply:
2.6.2.3 Determined Launch Order Rules - With Push
The rules in this section apply to determined launch order procedures.
The pilot seeding list shall be used to decide the nominated launch order for the first round. Placing's of the top third of the field shall be reversed. The last pilot in the top third shall be nominated to launch first. The pilot placed first shall be nominated as the last of the top pilots to launch. The remainder of the group shall have a nominated launch order decided by their place as at the end of the previous round. Where pilots are tied, their nominated launch order will be decided from the pilot seeding list.
A take off line shall be defined for each take-off point. When pilots are ready to launch they enter the take off line and come under the direction of the Launch Director. Pilots must move towards the take-off point without undue delay. On arriving at the take-off point a pilot may:
Any pilot who has entered the takeoff line, may declare their intention to launch ("push"). This forces all preceding pilots in the takeoff line to launch in the allotted time or leave the take-off area.
When a pilot who has "pushed" arrives at the take off point they must launch in the allotted time. A pilot's failure to launch within the allotted safe time results in disqualification from the round.
At sites where a number of launches are available pilots may use an alternate launch in an open window format. The launch director at the primary launch MUST be notified, prior to take off, of a pilot's intention to exercise this option.
Pilots who elect to launch from the
alternate launch and were unable to do so, shall score zero points.
2.6.2.4
Open Window and Determined Launch Order Combination
The rules in this section apply to situations where both open window and determined launch procedures are used.
The Meet Director may choose to allow a period of open window launches, before implementing a determined launch order at a nominated time. The launch open time shall start when the launch is initially opened.
During the period that the open window is in operation a pilot who wishes to launch shall notify the Launch Director and under his direction enter the take off line. If the pilot chooses not to launch they must immediately leave the launch area. When they wish to launch they must rejoin the take off line behind all other pilots who wish to launch in turn. That is, they forfeit their nominated launch order position if they elect to launch during the open window period, but chooses not to launch.
Pilots in the take off line at the time that the ordered launch comes into effect must revert to their nominated launch order position.
2.6.2.5 Determined Launch Order Rules - Without Push
All pilots wanting to be considered for launching must queue in order of launch priority, behind a specified point.
Pilots may join the queue in their launch order priority at any time.
These pilots must be ready to launch.
The launch marshal may invite the next willing pilot in the queue to enter the launch area before the next launch space is available.
If a pilot accepts entry and is then waiting for space, the clock starts on the pilot who was first into the launch area.
Once the pilot has entered the launch area they have priority over those in the queue.
The first pilot to enter the launch area shall be given a safe period of time to launch (normally one minute) or return to their place in the queue.
If the pilot fails their 2nd attempted launch then that pilot returns to their place in the queue.
If a pilot enters the launch area for a second time and again fails to launch after 2 attempts then they must go to the back of the launch order.
If no pilot wishes to enter the launch area, the pilots on launch may wait.
If several pilots are ready to launch but no pilots are wishing to enter the launch area, the pilots on launch may launch in any order. (No one can push, but anyone can launch, with launch marshal's approval)
Pilots wishing to refly remain at the rear of the launch order. They take a lower launch order priority than any pilots who have not yet flown.
Pilots wishing to refly will be in their day's launch order priority.
2.6.2.5.5 Multiple launch areas
A launch area large enough to launch a number of gliders simultaneously shall have only one entry gate.
A scoring flight terminates at the first point after a successful launch where energy from the glider ceases to be the motive force.
2.7.2 Clearing the landing area
When a landing is made at a point nominated by the meet director as a landing area the pilot shall move his/her glider clear of the landing area without delay.
Failure to co-operate will result in the awarding of penalty points. Refer 2.10
Where the task calls for pilots to round turn points, then the flight shall be verified by either observers at the turn points or by requiring pilots to photograph the turnpoints, or by the use of GPS recording systems that have the approval of the competitions committee.
Pilots may be required to radio the turn point judge of their intention to round the turnpoint. The turnpoint judge shall advise the pilot when the turnpoint has been achieved. Pilots may present photographic evidence that the turn point has been achieved provided that:
The Meet Director will provide each competitor with a new 35mm film as required. This film shall be presented to the scorer for processing when necessary.
Each competitor shall photograph the day board prior to launch and provide a photograph that clearly shows the pilot's competition number.
All photographs concerning a flight shall be on a single uncut length of film, and there shall be proof that they were taken:
A turn point is awarded (achieved) when the pilot presents a satisfactory photograph of the turn point feature taken from the correct photo sector. The photo sector is a quadrant (90 degree sector) on the ground with its apex at the turn point and oriented symmetrically to and remote from the legs of the course leading to and from the turn point. The sector limit is one kilometre from the quadrant apex. The photograph may be taken from a lower height than the turnpoint provided the turnpoint feature is clearly visible.
Obscuration of the turn point by the wing, another aircraft, or patch of cloud will not invalidate the evidence provided that the photograph show related ground features that prove it to have been otherwise correctly taken of the turn point feature.
Where a pilot produces an out of sector, or otherwise failed turnpoint photograph, that leaves no doubt that the pilot was in the air at the turnpoint, that pilots score shall be determined as if he landed at the edge of sector closest to the launch or previous turnpoint.
Where a pilot fails to provide an otherwise satisfactory turn point photograph, the pilots score shall be determined from his landing point as if the pilot has NOT achieved the turn point.
NO OTHER MEANS OF VERIFICATION (INCLUDING GPS FIX INFORMATION) IS PERMITTED WHERE THE TASK CALLS FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC TURN POINTS.
This means that evidence (photographic or otherwise) provided by other competitors CANNOT be used as flight verification in those cases where a pilot is unable to produce a satisfactory turn point photograph for ANY reason whatsoever.
Competitors may use a backup camera with a second film. This film must be supplied by the Meet Director. Where a pilot uses a backup camera the second film must be marked as such and submitted as required by the Meet Director. The backup film will only be processed in the event of failure of the primary film.
Backup film must be submitted as required by the meet director.
The final results of each round will not be posted until the turn point photos, including backups, have been examined for validity.
2.8.2.3 Elapsed time Verification
Where data back cameras are used for the determination of elapsed time the day board photograph must clearly show the official time piece. The Meet Director will perform random checks on competitor's camera equipment. Pilots who achieve goal are required to photograph the official clock at goal without delay.
The following penalties will be applied where competitors fail to provide required photographs.
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Pilot awarded zero points for round | |
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Pilot awarded zero points for round | |
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100 Penalty Points | |
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Pilot awarded finish time of civil twilight on that day. | |
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Pilot awarded start time equal to the earliest (valid) start time of the pilots in goal (or window open time if no other pilot makes the goal), and a finish time equal to the last pilot in goal, disregarding finish time penalties that may be applied to some pilots. | |
In tasks where a pilot fails to achieve the goal that pilot shall:
When an emergency occurs the launch director shall be notified without delay. The appropriate emergency service should be notified by phoning 000. Or the appropriate local service.
Pilots who are flying near a pilot who goes down and is in need of aid MUST provide aid to the limit of their own safety. Compensation to the assisting pilots score will be at the discretion of the Meet Director. The pilot going to the assistance will (generally) receive the equivalent of his average daily scores (expressed as a percentage of the daily winners scores and determined at the end of the competition) and applied against the winners score for the round.
Depending on the emergency it may be necessary to suspend or cancel the competition round. Any round cancelled will be declared invalid.
2.10 PENALTIES AND DISCIPLINARY ACTION
The director may penalise a competitor as described within these rules. These penalties may be in the form of an operational disadvantage, deduction of points, alteration of placing order, or disqualification. General Section 5.2.1
The Meet Director may impose penalties as a result of unsporting behaviour, unsafe behaviour, actions that may threaten the continued use of the site, or illegal acts.
The Meet Director shall inform pilots as soon as practical that penalty or disciplinary action has been applied. The pilot's time for submission of protest shall commence from the time the pilot is notified.
Except where penalties are prescribed within these rules the severity of penalties which may be imposed range from a minimum loss of points to disqualification indicated below, appropriate to the offence: General Section 5.2.2
2.10.2 Technical Infringements
Technical infringements of rules or failure to comply with requirements caused by mistake or inadvertence where no advantage has accrued, or could have accrued to the competitor, should, as a guide, carry penalties leading to a reduction of not less than 2% of the best score or maximum available score for the task. General Section 5.2.2.1
Serious infringements, such as dangerous or hazardous actions or repetitions of lesser infringements should, as a guide, carry minimum penalties leading to a reduction of not less than 5% of the maximum score for the task. General Section 5.2.2.2
Cheating or unsporting behaviour, including falsification of documents, use of forbidden equipment or repeated serious infringements of rules should, as a guide, result in disqualification from the sporting event. General Section 5.2.2.3
2.10.5 Application of penalties
Any penalties involving a pilot's score, which are disciplinary in nature, will be imposed at the end of the competition.
Penalties that may be awarded on those days where a task is cancelled (or invalid) include:
Accumulation of 1000 or more penalty points shall lead to disqualification.
The Meet Director reserves the right to disqualify a pilot from the competition for unsafe flying.
A complaint may be made to the organisers to request a correction. It should be made with the minimum delay and it will be dealt with expeditiously.
If the complainant is not satisfied with the outcome the pilot may make a protest in writing to the Meet Director or his Deputy. (See General Section Chapter 5).
The time limit for protests is one hour after publication of the provisional task results or the results of the complaint, except that after the last contest task it is 30 minutes. The protest fee is $AUD50. It will be returned if the protest is upheld.
Protests over rules as printed or addendum as advised in accordance with the rules will not be accepted.
All protests shall be heard by a protest committee of three persons independent from the Organiser. The Meet Director shall announce the Protest Committee prior to the first competition task being attempted. When a protest is made the Meet Director may appoint an alternate members to the protest committee if he believes that there is a substantial conflict of interests between the protest committee and protest submitted.
Any decisions of the protest committee are final.
No protests will be accepted after the final competition results have been declared.
The GAP scoring system as defined by CIVL shall be used for all sanctioned competitions.
The parameters to be used for each competition shall be determined at the time the sanction is awarded.
Where the competition format does not allow pilots to choose the time at which they start the course (ie order launch with timing on launch, or a start tarp with a common starting time) then departure points are to be disabled.
2.13.1 Standard of Equipment Section 7 5.12
Aircraft and equipment provided by the competitor must be of a performance and standard suitable for the event. This could be demonstrated by a valid certificate of airworthiness or permit to fly.
The Organisers have the right to refuse any glider not of acceptable standard or configuration. The glider shall fly throughout the championships as a single structural entity using the same standard of components as used on the first day).
All gliders must (if required), be made available during the Registration period for an acceptance check in the configuration in which they will be flown. The organisers have the right to inspect for Class conformity and airworthiness and, if necessary, ground any aircraft for safety reasons at any time during the event.
Each glider shall be given a pre-flight check by its pilot and may not be flown unless it is serviceable. Section 7 5.18.3
Each glider shall be flown within the limitations of its Certificate of Airworthiness or Permit to Fly and its manufacturer's published limitations. Any manoeuvre hazardous to other competitors or the public, including unauthorised aerobatics are prohibited. Section 7 5.18.2
2.13.4 Damage to a Competing Glider
Any major damage shall be reported to the organisers without delay and the glider may then be repaired. Any replacement parts must conform exactly to the original specifications. If permission is given by the Meet Director to replace the glider temporarily or permanently for reasons of damage or loss or theft beyond the control of the pilot, it may be replaced by:
Where glider identification is required, and unless specified to the contrary by the meet directors the numbers or letters supplied by the organisers shall be displayed on the underside of the right wingtip with their top towards the leading edge, and on the pilots helmet. Identification may also be required on the top of the wing.
Glider identification number shall normally be allocated on the basis of a pilot's position on the National Ladder current at the time the competition is conducted.
2.13.6 Protective and Safety Equipment
Every pilot shall wear a protective helmet and carry an emergency parachute on all flights. Further safety systems may be detailed. In class 2 and class 4, a helmet is not compulsory if this restricts vision from within an enclosed cockpit with supine seating Section 7 5.19.1
It is recommended that all competitors carry radios in the interest of safety and to allow notification by pilots of their position when approaching goal. The Official frequency will be announced at the initial pilot briefing. Use of this channel for other than official business is not permitted.
Competitors are reminded of the regulations governing the operation of two way radio equipment. All equipment must be operated in accordance with the appropriate regulations. All equipment and/or operators must be appropriately licensed.
A competing glider may carry jettisonable ballast only in the form of fine sand OR water. A pilot must avoid dropping ballast at any time or in a manner likely to disadvantage other competing gliders or enrage the public. Section 7 5.19.8
The use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) or other navigation equipment is permitted as an aid for inflight navigation, landing verification and pilot retrieval.
Lack of availability of a particular navigation system will not be accepted as grounds for complaint or protest.
Where tasks involve the rounding of photographic turn points each pilot will require a 35mm camera for the purpose of flight verification. The focal length of the lens shall be less than 55mm. All film used must be as provided by the Meet Director.
Competitors should ensure that all camera equipment is in good working order. The failure of camera equipment will not be allowed as a valid excuse for the failure to present a satisfactory turn point photograph.
The clock within any data back camera used for the determination of a pilots elapsed time shall record the time at which a photograph is taken to a resolution of at least one minute.
The Competition Director reserves the right to make independent checks on the accuracy of any data back camera clocks used for determination of a pilot's elapsed time. He may, if necessary, require controls to be sealed to ensure that the time settings cannot be adjusted in flight.
Any physical means to produce propulsive energy to increase performance is prohibited.
A pilot may not fly unless fit. Any injury, drugs or medication taken, which might affect the pilot's performance in the air, must be reported to the Meet Director or championship doctor before flying. Section 7 5.19.2
Circuit, turning and landing patterns given at Briefing shall be complied with, international collision avoidance regulations obeyed and a proper lookout kept at all times. A glider joining another in a thermal shall circle in the same direction as that established by the first regardless of height separation. Section 7 5.19.3
A competitor involved in a collision in the air must not continue the flight if the structural integrity of their glider is in doubt. S7 5.19.3
Intentional flying in cloud is prohibited.
The current issue of Civil Aviation Order 95.8 is to be observed at all times. Minor breaches of the requirements of CAO 95.8 will result in the award of 500 penalty points. Major infringements may result in disqualification and/or further disciplinary action by HGFA and/or CASA.
All competitors and their retrieve drivers are reminded that many landings will be on private property.
Pilots are required to act in such a manner that promotes the continued practice of hang gliding in the area:
Pilots are warned that complaints from property owners may incur penalties.
Pilots will complete fully and accurately all forms when requested.
Pilots shall ensure that the competition scorer receives the landing form each day. Pilots who, without good reason, fail to submit their landing form by the specified time will incur penalty points.
It is the pilot's responsibility to keep up with all schedule changes, course modifications and rule amendments.
The main competition notice board is located at headquarters. This notice board is for the display of all competition information including any addendum to these rules. In addition to the main competition notice board a notice board shall be located at each launch.
This section of the rules is intended to be posted on the competition notice board as an addendum to the rules.
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Competition Sanction Status |
Grade of Sanction Awarded | ||
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Basic Competition Ladder Points |
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Conditions applicable for sanction |
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Competition Objectives |
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Competition Format |
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Grades of Competition
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Rounds |
Elimination Rounds followed by a cut | |
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single group |
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Practice Days |
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Registration Deadline |
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First Competition Round | ||
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Last scheduled Round |
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Emergency day | If by | |
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No further extensions will be made. | |
| Closing Ceremony | |||
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Rest Days | Will Rest days be called after 6 consecutive days of flying? | |
| Daily Program | |||
| Morning Pilot briefing | |||
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First pilot ready to launch | ||
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Notification of landing details to Scorer | NOTE: Penalty points may be awarded for late notification of landing details. | |
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Preliminary results posted | ||
| Location | |||
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Headquarters | ||
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Phone for retrieve coordination | ||
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Maps required for navigation | ||
| Prizes will be awarded as follows | |||
| Open Division | First Place | ||
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Second Place | |
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Third Place | |
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B grade Division | First Place | |
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Second Place | |
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Third Place | |
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C grade Division | First Place | |
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Second Place | |
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Third Place | |
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Women's Division | First Place | |
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Second PLACE | |
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Third Place | |
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Team's Competition | First Place | |
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Second PLACE | |
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Third Place | |
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Other Prizes |
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| Minimum pilot Proficiency rating | |||
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Others | ||
| Fees and Charges | |||
| Entry Fees | |||
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| Protest Fee |
$50.00
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All moneys from unsuccessful protests will be paid to | ||
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Additional films | ||
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Other Fees | ||
| Officials | |||
| Meet Director | |||
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Scorer | ||
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Launch Director | ||
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Goal Official | ||
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Official Radio Frequency | ||
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Emergency Radio Frequency | ||
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| Backup Films | |||
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Othes | ||
The objectives of the National Ladder are:
The ladders will be maintained for all sanctioned competitions. Separate ladders are maintained for hang glider pilots and paraglider pilots.
Hang gliding (class 1,2 and 4) will use competition based ladder calculation. The National ladder shall be calculated using the sum of the pilot's best three 'comp ladder points' results over two years, (with competitions from the first year devalued as described below).
Paragliding (class 3) will use round based ladder calculation. The National ladder shall be calculated using the sum of the pilot's best eight 'round ladder points' for that season, with a maximum of five rounds taken from any one competition. The season's champions are awarded based on this ladder. The Team Selection Ladder is calculated by using the sum of the pilot's best ten 'round ladder points' over two years, (with competitions from the first year devalued as described below).
The ranking will be calculated once each year. The ranking will remain unchanged throughout the following 12 months.
The calculation will be performed using
results from sanctioned competitions that are completed by 15th April.
This will allow team selection for international competitions in the Northern
Hemisphere.
A calculated seeding will stand until
April 14th of the following year.
The pilot ranking shall be calculated from the sum of the weighted points allocated for each competition in the two year period up until April 15th. Any competition organiser wishing to include the results of a competition in the ladder must obtain the sanction of the Competitions Committee (See 4.6.2)
3.3.1 Competition Based Ladder
National ladder points for a valid competition will be as follows.
Comp Ladder points = Comp Sanction points x Comp Validity
National ladder points for valid rounds will be as follows.
Round Ladder points = Comp Sanction points x Day Quality Factor
3.3.2.1 Competition Sanction Points
Competition Sanctions points for competitions completed in the 12 month period ending 15 April will be determined from the level of sanction awarded by the Competition Committee. The competition sanction points for competitions from the prior period will be one sanction level below that which was awarded at the time of sanction.
When the sum of the daily round validity factors is less than or equal to four the validity of the competition shall be computed using the formula:
When the sum of the daily round validity
factors is greater than four, the Comp Validity of the competition shall
be equal to 1.
A minimum of four rounds with a day
quality value greater than zero must be run before a Champion is declared
and the competition is declared valid.
3.4 PILOT LADDER POINTS CALCULATION WHERE HGFA STANDARD RULES AND SCORING SYSTEM IS USED
3.4.1 Competitions without Elimination Rounds
3.4.1.1 Competition Based Ladder
The pilot's ladder points for a competition run without elimination rounds and where all rounds contribute to the total score is calculated from
Note that the winner's final score is the score of the highest placed Australian pilot.
Round Based National ladder points (for each round) are calculated using the following formula.
Note that the winner's score is the
score of the highest placed Australian pilot.
3.4.1.3 Competitions with Elimination Rounds
Where a competition is conducted with elimination rounds and a redistribution of pilots (with pilots who fail to make the final rounds competing as a separate group), then the pilots ladder points will be calculated on the following basis:
3.4.1.3.1 Pilots who qualify for the final group
3.4.1.3.2 Pilots who fail to qualify for the final group.
Where the factor above is chosen so that
and
Ratio1 is calculated at the end of the elimination rounds from the average normalised score of Australian pilots who make the final group divided by the average normalised score of Australian pilots who have flown in at least half the elimination rounds and who fail to make the final group; and
Ratio2 is calculated at the end of the competition from the average final score of Australian pilots who make the final group (and fly in at least half the final rounds) divided by the average final score of Australian pilots who fail to make the final group and who fly in at least half the rounds conducted for these pilots after the cut is made.
3.4.2 Where Alternate Rules and Scoring Systems are Used
Where the Competition Committee has sanctioned the inclusion of a competition with alternate rules and/or scoring systems, then the pilot's ladder points shall be determined from the following.
Where Relative points are determined from the graph below.
This graph has been determined from the distribution of scores in a number of competitions run in accordance with the standard rules and scoring systems. The graph is used so that the spread of points for competitions scored with alternative scoring systems approximates the spread for the standard scoring system.
For computational accuracy the pilot's ladder points should be calculated from the following equation.
Where:
p is the pilot's overall position in the competition (including non Australian Pilots); and
n is the maximum number of pilots entered in the competition (including non Australian Pilots).
A pilot grading scheme has been introduced to encourage pilots new to competition.
Hang Glider pilots whose calculated ranking is less than or equal to 50 at any time since 1 April 1988 shall be classed as "A GRADE". Other pilots whose ranking is between 51 and 100 shall be classed as "B GRADE". All other pilots shall be classified as "C GRADE".
Paraglider pilots whose calculated ranking is less than or equal to 25 at any time shall be classed as "A GRADE". Other pilots whose ranking is between 26 and 50 shall be classed as "B GRADE". All other pilots shall be classified as "C GRADE".
The pilot ranked one on the ladder in each class, as calculated on April 15 in each year, will be declared "AUSTRALIAN HANG GLIDING (or PARAGLIDING) CHAMPION".
The highest placed pilot who was ranked as B GRADE in the previous year shall be declared "AUSTRALIAN B GRADE HANG GLIDING (or PARAGLIDING) CHAMPION".
The highest ranked female pilot on the ladder in each class, as calculated on April 15 in each year, will be declared "AUSTRALIAN WOMEN'S HANG GLIDING (or PARAGLIDING) CHAMPION".
3.7 REQUIREMENTS FOR SANCTION OF COMPETITION
The sanctioning of competitions was introduced by HGFA to:
Intending competition organisers are required to make an application for HGFA sanction in accordance with the following timetable.
3.7.2.1 Timetable for Sanction Applications
Sanction applications are required prior to the minimum period indicated in the following charts (Criteria for Assessment)
3.7.2.1.1 Sanction Application
Following review of the applications the competition organiser whose competition has been a lower than requested sanction level will be provided an opportunity to amend or comment on the application and sanction granted
3.7.2.1.2 Confirmation of sanction
Following the period for comment the Competitions Committee will review the Sanction Application and where it is found to be satisfactory, confirm the HGFA Sanction. The list of confirmed competitions will be published as the HGFA Competitions calendar for the coming season.
3.7.3 Criteria for Assessment of Grade of Sanction.
The following criteria shall be used
by the Competitions Committee as guidelines in determining the grade of
Sanction for hang gliding and paragliding competitions.
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| Ladder Value |
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| Minimum number of Competitors | Class 1 & 2 |
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run as a single group
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8 days | 7 days | 6 days | . | |||
| Maximum number of Competitions in one season | 2 | 2 | 1 in each Region or State | 1 B or 2 C Grade meets for each affiliated club | |||
| Coordination with other competitions within Australia | No clashes - reasonable travel time between events would allow all pilots and opportunity to compete. Timing to be such as to encourage participation by overseas pilots. | No more than two competitions (A grade and above) at any one time | No coordination requirements | ||||
| Competition Rules | Full Compliance in all details with HGFA rules as published | HGFA rules or alternative rules as approved by Competition Committee see 9.3.1 | |||||
| Photographic
Film processing and scrutineering
Note.Variations can be made with use of approved GPS system |
Films to
be collected and checked each day from all competitors claiming photographic
evidence
Backup film to be collected each day |
Films to be collected
and checked each day from all competitors claiming photographic evidence
when strict ordered launch is used. Otherwise, films to be collected and
checked each two rounds max.
Backup film to be collected as required |
Films collected and checked
at end of competition
Backup film to be collected as required |
No requirements | |||
| Meet Director experience | Demonstrated
at previous meets graded A grade or above. Must not also be a competitor
in the event.
Or, have run lower grade competitions, with an approved technical delegate at the event |
Previous B or C Grade meet director or A Grade Pilot or instructor | No requirements | ||||
| Projected competitor participation. See Section 9.3.2 for Calculation of Difficulty Factor | Difficulty Factor to be greater than 0.9. | Difficulty Factor to be greater than 0.75. | Difficulty Factor to be greater than 0.6. | Difficulty Factor to be in the region of 0.4 | No requirements | ||
| Competitor Entry | No restrictions on pilot entry. Where it is necessary to limit pilot numbers the criteria of Section 2.2.1 to be applied. | Entry may be restricted to pilots satisfying certain requirements such as place of residence of membership of organisations such as clubs or regional associations | |||||
| Reciept of notification and sanction application | Notification and preliminart application for sanction by April 15. | To be received at least 12 weeks prior to first round. | To be received at least 8 weeks prior to first round,except that competitions can be given a maximum of 100 sanction points if notification and results are submitted after the event | ||||
| Operating Budget | Full details to be provided with sanction application. Post competition audit of income and expenditure must be available to pilots on request, and supplied to the CC before any new sanction application will be cosidered | Summary information (including entry fees) only required | |||||
| Notification
Requirements
(prior to the scheduled first round) |
Dates and entry requirements to be published in SkySailor and the International Hang Gliding Press at least 6 months in advance | Advertised in SkySailor for at least 3 months | Advertised in Skysailor for at least 1 month | No requirement | |||
| Services to be provided by Competition Organiser | |||||||
| Retrieve Coordination | Extended hours retrieval phone-in point to be manned by competition personnel | No requirement | |||||
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For a competition not conducted in accordance with the HGFA rules a B or C grade sanction may be awarded provided:
A technical delegate (TD) may be present at competitions. Their role would be to assist the competition organiser on technical matters, be a reference regarding the rules, ensure all competitions follow the rules and meet required service levels. The TD will be able to fly in the competition, and will not be required to pay the competition entry fee. The TD would be a competition committee member or a proxy nominated by them. The decision of the TD may be subject to the normal protest procedures.
3.7.6 Task and Protest committee.
All A, or higher, sanctioned competitions will have the task committee and the prospective protest committee, with a nominated reserve, approved by the pilots at the general briefing before the start of the competition.
3.7.7 Determination of Competition Difficulty Factor
This factor is used as a guide by organisers and the Competitions Committee in determining the Sanction Level to be applied. The sanction level and the national ladder value of a competition will not be changed once that sanction has been approved and published by the HGFA Competitions Committee, except as a result of a failure to reach the minimum round validity requirement, or unless there are extenuating circumstances which warrant such action as deemed necessary by the HGFA competitions committee.
The competition difficulty factor is a measure of the expected participation in a competition by highly ranked pilots.
For an established competition, that has been run each season for at least three seasons, the difficulty factor used in considering the grade of sanction shall be taken as the average of the two most recent events.
For new competitions, the organiser shall submit an assessment of the likely participation of pilots that shall be used in considering the grade of sanction. Compelling evidence of projected attendance will be required if a new competition seeks AAA or AA grade sanction
The level of difficulty for an individual competition is assessed from:
Where Pilot Factor is given by
and where
| For Hang Gliding Competitions | For Paragliding Competitions | |
| PN is | the number of pilots (see note). | 2 times the number of pilots (see note). |
| TA is | the number of pilots ranked from 1 to 10 | the number of pilots ranked from 1 to 5 |
| TB is | the number of pilots ranked from 11 to 20 | the number of pilots ranked from 6 to 10 |
| TC is | the number of pilots ranked from 21 to 30 | the number of pilots ranked from 11 to 15 |
| TD is | the number of pilots ranked from 31 to 40 | the number of pilots ranked from 16 to 20 |
| TE is | the number of pilots ranked from 41 to 50 | the number of pilots ranked from 21 to 25 |
| TF is | the number of pilots ranked from 51 to 60 | the number of pilots ranked from 26 to 30 |
| TG is | the number of pilots ranked from 61 to 70 | the number of pilots ranked from 31 to 35 |
| TH is | the number of pilots ranked from 71 to 80 | the number of pilots ranked from 36 to 40 |
| TJ is | the number of pilots ranked from 81 to 90 | the number of pilots ranked from 41 to 45 |
| TK is | the number of pilots ranked from 91 to 100 | the number of pilots ranked from 46 to 50 |
(1) Ranking is determined from previous years seeding.
(2) PN comprises the competing Australian Residents or Australian Citizens only.
(3) In each case the number of pilots is determined as those pilots who compete in at least half of the valid rounds of the competition.
The selection procedures contained in this section are to be followed when it is necessary to select a team that will be representing Australia in International competitions where entry is limited and the organiser does not invite individuals to compete.
Where possible the initial nomination of teams shall occur three months prior to the competition starting date. The Competition Committee shall determine the dates by which a final team selection is to be made.
Firm and challengeable positions shall be calculated from the relevent national ladder.
Where the competition for which the
team is being selected commences in the period from 1 July to 31 December
then the National Ladder calculated on 15th April in the same
year will be used. For competitions commencing in the period from 1 January
to 30 June an interim National Ladder calculated three months prior to
the starting date of the competition will be used.
( In performing this interim calculation, devaluation
of competition ladder points from prior seasons will only be done if the
corresponding competition in the current season has been concluded at the
time the calculation is being performed.)
Depending on the size of the team a
number of the nominated team positions will be firm, and a number will
be subject to challenge by other pilots (see following Table).
( Gender is not considered unless gender requirements
are not fulfilled. In such circumstances the committee shall be responsible
for determining the team composition)
( Where a team size is other than that shown in the table,
a determination as to the number of firm positions will be made by the
competition committee as soon as practicle after the team size is announced)
4.2.1.1 Team selection for class 3 competitions
Team selection for class 3 competition will not be done on the basis of firm and challengeable positions. All pilots eligible for selection, who do not have firm positions will be required to challenge for the remaining positions on the team.
All interested pilots will contest the non-firm positions.
National ladder ranking does not serve as an automatic challenge for a non-firm position.
The selection panel will then chose the team using section 4.4
4.2.2 Firm
Positions in National Teams
(The number of firm positions shown on this table shall
apply where five competitons eligible for inclusion on the appropriate
national ladder have been conducted in the two seasons prior to the time
at which the team selection is made. Where five competitions have not been
included in the national ladder, no positions are firm.)
| Team size | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 16 |
| Number of Firm Positions | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
| Number of Positions Subject to Challenge | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 6 |
( The team size used in this table is the size of the team specified by the competition organiser. Any requirements for reserve pilots shall not be considered in determining the number of firm positions. Any reserve positions will be filled from the national ladder, and may be challenged in accordance with the procedures laid down in this section. A pilot displaced from the nominated team, as a result of a challenge, automatically has the right to challenge for any reserve position.)
As soon as the nominated team is identified, letters of notification and contracts shall be sent to pilots by the HGFA Executive Director. These letters shall be as follows:
4.2.3.1 To pilots who hold firm positions
A letter of confirmation. This letter shall also include details of the date by which a pilot must indicate that they wish to take the place on the team, by returning a signed contract (normally 14 days from the date of the letter).
4.2.3.2 To pilots who hold positions subject to challenge
A letter requesting that the pilot submit information (in writing) for the consideration of the Selection Committee if a challenge for the position is made. This letter shall also include details of:
the criteria that will be used to evaluate any challenge made; and
the time by which the information must be provided (normally 14 days from the date of the letter) along with a signed contract and an indication of their willingness or otherwise to be a reserve if not selected.
4.2.3.3 To those pilots who are able to challenge
Any pilots eligible to fill a position subject to challenge (as shown in table 4.2.2) must apply to be considered for this position. A letter indicating that they have the right to challenge positions on the National team and/or be considered as a reserve, will be sent to these pilots. The letter shall include details similar to that required in 4.2.3.2 above.
4.2.3.4 Pilots with the right to Challenge Nominated Team Positions
| Team to be selected | Pilots with the right to challenge |
| For OPEN Hang Gliding Competitions | National ladder pilots ranked in the top 20 or ranked in a group that is two times the team size (whichever number is the larger) |
| For WOMEN Hang Gliding Competitions | National ladder pilots ranked in the top 10 female pilots or ranked in a group that is two times the team size (whichever number is the larger). |
| For Paragliding Competitions | National ladder pilots ranked in the top 10 or ranked in a group that is two times the team size (whichever number is the larger). |
As soon as practical after expiration of the period during which challenges may be submitted the Executive Director shall:
If no challenges have been received,
confirm the team or
If challenges have been received,
convene a meeting of the Selection Panel (see following section) who shall
consider the challenges made in accordance with the criteria specified
in Section 6.4 and select the team.
( The selection panel shall make all decisions by way
of a simple majority)
The decision of the Selection Panel shall be final - no pilots have the right of appeal.
The selection panel shall consist of three persons as follows:
4.4 CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING VALIDITY OF A CHALLENGE
Where the selection Panel must assess the validity of a challenge the criteria as shown in the following table shall be used.
Criteria to Be Used to Access the Validity of Challenges to Nominated Team Positions
| Team to be selected | Competition | Criteria Group to be used |
| For OPEN Hang Gliding Competitions | World Championships or other competitions as notified one season prior to team selection | Group B |
| All other Competitions | Group A | |
| For WOMEN Hang Gliding Competitions | All Competitions | Group A |
| For PARAGLIDING Competitions | All Competitions | Group A |
A.1 The known or anticipated competition calendar for the next 12 months.
A.2 The grouping of pilot points on the ladder.
A.3 Previous experience at the site.
A.4 Knowledge of the opposition.
A.5 A pilots willingness to extend his experience through private means.
A.6 Current form.
A.7 Indicated potential of upcoming newer pilots.
A.8 Pilot availability.
A.9 Effects of injury on performance.
A.10 The need to give new pilots overseas experience.
A.11 Previous experience at an International Level.
A.12 Ability to work as a team member.
The weight given to each criteria is not fixed, but varies according to the competition or competitions for which teams are to be selected.
B.1 Previous Experience at the international level.
B.2 National Ladder Score.
The weight given to each criterion is not fixed, however B.1 is of greater significance than B.2.
The onus is placed on the challenging pilot to provide evidence to show valid reasons for an insufficient ladder placing due to non-attendance at a competition or competitions. The reasons need to have been due to circumstances beyond the pilot's control.
The timetable for the selection process shall be drawn up well in advance so that all pilots are aware of the timing of any decisions.
The timetable for the selection process shall be drawn up well in advance so that all pilots are aware of the timing of any decisions.
4.5.2 Written Agreement with HGFA
All pilots selected as part of any team or squad are required to enter a written agreement (contract) with the HGFA that, amongst other things, requires them to abide by any decisions of the Selection Panel.
Last modified 17th August 1998
Created byMichael Zupanc