FALSE START PROCEDURE What is a FALSE START

FALSE START PROCEDURE

What is a FALSE START?

• Erroneous • Early • Improper • Bogus • Faulty

• Definition of “false”: Not genuine, intentionally untrue, made so as to deceive, tending to mislead

Rule 101. 13 A. Any swimmer starting before the starting signal is given shall be disqualified…. . B. If the starting signal has been given before the disqualification is declared, the race shall continue without recall. C. If the recall signal is activated inadvertently, no swimmer shall be charged with a false start… D. A swimmer who would otherwise be charged with a false start may be relieved of the charge if the false start was caused by the swimmer’s reaction to the starter’s “stand please” command…. or… E. DFS

• Walk me through the process of how the call is made…. • When is it made?

• Scenario #1 Swimmer Lane 1 leaves the set position or stationary position prior to the starting signal. The starting signal is then given. The race proceeds and both Starter and Referee independently confirm Lane 1. False Start?

Scenario #2 Swimmer in Lane 3 comes down at the “TYM” command. She gradually starts to pull back for a sling shot start. The start signal is given as she is in the process of pulling back. False Start?

Scenario #3 The swimmer in lane 6 comes set and is stationary after the “TYM” command. Prior to the start signal he loses his balance and struggles to not fall into the pool. The Starter gives the “stand” command. The swimmer in lane 6 falls into the water. False Start?

• Scenario #4 Lane 2 swimmer achieves the stationary position after the “TYM” command. Prior to the starting signal she loses her balance and falls into the water. There is an audible gasp from the crowd. After a slight pause the swimmer slowly climbs out and steps up on the block. The Starter looks over at the Referee and after a brief discussion of what just happened, the swimmer was disqualified and asked to step off the block. False Start?

• Scenario #5 The swimmer in lane 5 becomes stationary but prior to the start signal leaves his position. He is able to reestablish his position. However, the swimmer in lane 4 is distracted by lane 5’s action, causing him to start early. False Start?

Scenario #6 As the swimmers respond to the “TYM” command, the swimmer in lane 8 suddenly takes off. The swimmers in lanes 7 and 6 follow and the Starter starts the race and then immediately decides to hit the recall signal. False Start?

• What is the best way to prevent a false start or a series of false starts?