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The Blackburn Challenge |
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The Blackburn Challenge |
Welcome to the Blackburn Challenge. As you know, today’s course is 20+
statute miles, mostly open water. Safety is, as always, of utmost importance.
Safety depends on the seamanship and good judgement of each participant. Seamanship
and good judgement demand that each participant carry or wear a USCG-approved
PFD, as well as a whistle or horn. No one lacking this equipment will
be allowed to start. Seamanship and good judgement strongly suggest
that each boat carry a bailer, a compass, chart and an adequate amount of fluids
to prevent dehydration. One should also watch out for others offering to help
a fellow racer in distress or stopping to help if one caused distress to a racer.
Race numbers should be taped to both sides of your bow. Call your number to the timers at the finish line when crossing at the Greasy Pole. Do not cross the finish line twice.
| It is essential that race personnel know who is on the course. Therefore, each participant must confirm his or her presence with the start committee, the committee boat anchored off Straitsmouth Island, and the finish committee at the Greasy Pole. If you are not at Straitsmouth 3 hours after your start time, you will be expected to pull out of the race and notify the committee. Race officials need you to be able to complete the race in 6 hours. Chase boats and the finish committee will not be responsible for racers who do not comply. |
Avoid crossing lines of fishing boats or interfering with fishing activity.
Anyone who retires from the race at any point between the registration table and the finish line should inform the Race Committee by calling 978-852-0845. Otherwise, people will be needlessly searching for a boat that isn’t on the course.
Finally, the Cape Ann Rowing Club hopes sportsmanlike conduct will in every instance prevail. Sportsmanlike conduct precludes any attempt to block an overtaking boat. Sportsmanship also requires that competitors find within themselves the mettle to complete the course, and refrain from drafting off of any other participant or power craft.