2005 SSA CONTEST RULE CHANGES SUMMARY The purpose of this document is to identify the 2005 changes and the rationale for those changes. Additional information on the rationale for the changes may be found in the Rules Committee November 2004 meeting minutes. Each rule pertains to one or more numbered items in the minutes of the Rules Committee meeting. The references to these items appear with each rule, (e.g. RCM 25). Additionally, each rule is identified as a major or minor change. “Major” rules will typically involve changes that affect selection of equipment, task types, start and finish methods, significant task scoring changes, and significant penalties. Changes deemed “major” will be tried in Regional contests before being implemented in National contests. All other rule changes will be deemed minor with immediate implementation. A letter in brackets (e.g. [N]) at the start of each rule indicates the level to which the rule applies: N – FAI National R- FAI Regional S – Sport National X – Sport Regional Regional rules “inherit” from National rules – they are the same except where R-level paragraphs exist to differentiate them. Likewise, Sport National rules inherit from National rules and Sport Regional rules inherit from Sport National rules. 1. Standard Class – 9 lb Wing loading limit (RCM 49, Major) This is a major rule change to eliminate the long-standing 9 lb wing loading limit applicable to the Standard Class. This change is adopted in response to the 2003 and 2004 pilot opinion polls and pilot input at Standard class contests. As a major rule change, Rule 6.12.5.2 will not be applicable for Regional competitions beginning in 2005. Dependent upon 2005 competition season results, the 9lb limit will be eliminated for National competition beginning in 2006. Finally, the Rules Committee recognizes that certain sites may desire to maintain the existing limit due to airfield or towplane considerations. As such, the RC will entertain waiver requests as appropriate. [R]6.12.5.2 Not Applicable 2. Competition Director as a Competitor (RCM 2, Minor) This is a minor change intended to clearly preclude the Competition Director from simultaneously participating in the event as an entrant. The CD's attention and priorities should be directed towards safety and effective management of the contest. [N]3.1.3 Competition Director 3.1.3.1 The Competition Director (hereinafter referred to as the CD) shall be an experienced competition official nominated by the sponsor at least 60 days before the contest and approved by the SSA Contest Committee. The CD works for the Contest Manager, but is responsible to the SSA for insuring compliance with the rules and fair competition. 3.1.3.2 The CD supervises the Contest Competition Committee, task selection, flight documentation procedures and analysis, start and finish procedures and scoring. 3.1.3.3 The CD must not be an entrant in any competition over which that CD has authority. 3. Number of entrants in a class (RCM 24, Minor) a) Rule 5.1.1.2.2 is modified to change reference from 5.1.1.1.1 to 5.1.1.1, improving clarity. b) For oversubscribed Regionals: Rule 5.1.1.2.2 is changed to remove the existing guidance on apportioning class size based on the relative entrants accepted in each class as of the Preferential Entry Deadline. [N]5.1.1.2.2 If more than one contest is being held simultaneously, the maximum number of entrants in each shall be in proportion to the number of applications for each received prior to the Preferential Entry Deadline, but not less than the minimum of Rule 5.1.1.1.1 plus two. [R]5.1.1.2.2 Applicants to an oversubscribed contest shall be accepted without regard for the competition class to which they have applied. 4. Foreign pilots (RCM 19, 22, Minor) This administrative clarification affirmatively identifies who is considered a US Pilot. All others are considered foreign pilots. [N]5.1.5 Nationality 5.1.5.1 A US pilot is one who is a US citizen or a Resident Alien as defined by the US Immigration and Naturalization Service; others are considered foreign pilots. 5.1.5.2 Foreign pilots fly as guest entrants (Rule 5.9). For regional competitions, this administrative clarification more clearly specifies that foreign pilots are eligible to not only compete as entrants, but also to receive awards. [R]5.1.5.2 Foreign pilots fly as regular entrants and are fully eligible to receive awards. 5. Entry Fees (RCM 3, 8, 9 Minor) a) The maximum entry fee for Regionals are increased as follows: $325 for a 5-day event, $360 for a 6-day event, $395 for a 7-day event, or $190 + $41/tow for a fixed fee plus variable tow fee. This increase is intended to cover continued escalation in fuel and insurance costs. b) The maximum entry fee for Nationals is increased to $595 or $290 + $41/tow for a fixed fee plus variable tow fee. This increase is intended to cover continued escalation in fuel and insurance costs. c) Rule 5.2.2.1.3 has been added to allow up to an additional $25/pilot fee to cover justifiable items such as transient pilot club-membership fees that some insurance policies require. If applicable, Organizers must fully explain and justify such local fees on the Application for Sanction form. d) Rule 5.2.2.5.2 has been added to specify that half the sanction fee is payable to the SSA in cases where there is no official contest. This change recognizes the fact that the SSA incurs contest related costs whether or not an official event results. e) The fee structure defined below includes an increase in the SSA Sanction fees applicable to both Regional and National competitions . At the December, 2004 SSA Executive Committee meeting, contest sanction fees were raised by $10 for Regionals and $20 for Nationals. This increase was requested by the US Team Committee and supported by the Rules Committee to cover NAA fees charged to the SSA for participating in international soaring competitions. The 2005 sanction fees will be $45 for Regionals and $60 for Nationals. f) Rule 5.2.2.6 has been added to make it clear that current-year fees apply to all 2005 contests. g) This entire section has been renumbered from 5.3 to 5.2, as part of a reorganization of rules on entries. 5.2 Fees 5.2.1 The entry fee will be as announced. A deposit is required when an entry application is submitted. The sponsor may impose a surcharge for entries received after the Preferential Entry Deadline. 5.2.2 Fee Amounts 5.2.2.1 Entry fees 5.2.2.1.1 The maximum fixed entry fee shall be $595 per entry. 5.2.2.1.2 The maximum variable entry fee shall be $290 per entry plus $41 per aerotow. 5.2.2.1.3 These amounts may be increased to cover local per-pilot fees that apply to all who fly at the contest site, up to a maximum of $25. Organizers must fully explain and justify such local fees on the Application for Sanction form. 5.2.2.3 The entry deposit is $100. 5.2.2.4 The maximum late-entry surcharge is $100. 5.2.2.5 Sanction fees 5.2.2.5.1 Of the entry fee, $60 represents the sanction fee. 5.2.2.5.2 Sanction fees are to be paid by contest sponsors to the SSA at the conclusion of the contest. If the competition is not Official (Rule 4.4, Rule 5.1.1.2), half the fee is paid to the SSA and the remainder is refunded to entrants. 5.2.2.6 Rules governing fee amounts shall be those in effect at the start of competition. If these have been altered between the time the contest was granted its sanction and the start of competition, the new fees and fee limits shall apply. 5.2.3 When a fixed entry fee has been announced, it includes a number of aerotows equal to the number of scheduled competition days, for use during the period of the contest. But aerotows taken after the start of competition for practice purposes are not covered under this rule. 5.2.4 The deadline for canceling an entry with full refund of fees paid is 14 days prior to the first scheduled competition day; after this time, money will be refunded at the discretion of the Contest Manager. But an applicant on the Standby list who cancels immediately upon notification that an entry position has become open receives a full refund. [R]5.2.2.1.1 The maximum fixed entry fee shall be: • For a scheduled 5-day contest, $325 per entry. • For a scheduled 6-day contest, $360 per entry. • For a scheduled 7-day contest, $395 per entry. [R]5.2.2.1.2 The maximum variable entry fee shall be $190 per entry plus $41 per aerotow. [R]5.2.2.4 The maximum late-entry surcharge is $50. [R]5.2.2.5.1 Of the entry fee, $45 represents the sanction fee. 6. Entry requirements (RCM 3, 10, Minor) A) New wording makes this rule clearer. The exemption for a pilot who has completed a National contest now applies to all contests. For Sport class, the “bronze badge and training course” provision is removed - a Silver badge is now required. This section has been renumbered from 5.4 to 5.3, as part of a reorganization of rules on entries. 5.3 Pilot Qualifications and Requirements 5.3.1 Experience requirements 5.3.1.1 Each entrant shall meet one or more of the following experience requirements: 5.3.1.1.1 Have a Pilot Ranking Score (Rule 5.4.1) greater than zero. 5.3.1.1.2 Present evidence both of having completed a previous National soaring contest and of recent cross-country soaring experience. 5.3.1.1.3 Foreign pilots may present evidence of having earned the FAI Gold Badge and of experience in soaring competition. 5.3.2 Entry application requirements 5.3.2.1 To be considered for entry, an applicant must submit the following to the contest organizers: 5.3.2.1.1 An SSA number indicating voting or student SSA membership valid through the last scheduled competition day 5.3.2.1.2 Evidence of meeting the experience requirements of Rule 5.3.1. 5.3.2.1.3 The entry deposit (Rule 5.2.1.4) 5.3.2.1.4 A Pilot Ranking score, if earned in the current year (Rule 5.1.6) 5.3.2.1.5 Declaration of the competition class to which entry is sought 5.3.2.1.6 If the applicant is a foreign pilot, declaration of country of citizenship 5.3.2.2 The date of application is the date on which these submissions are completed. 5.3.3 Contest registration requirements 5.3.3.1 In addition to the requirements of Rule 5.3.2, at contest registration an entrant must: 5.3.3.1.1 Present proof of holding a valid FAA Private or Commercial Glider Pilot Certificate (or the equivalent from another country). 5.3.3.1.2 Register and declare the sailplane to be flown. A sailplane will be accepted provided it meets all provisions of these rules. 5.3.3.1.3 Present proof of ownership of the registered sailplane, or permission of the owner to fly the sailplane in the competition. 5.3.3.1.4 Present proof of insurance for the registered sailplane, with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and property damage liability. 5.3.3.1.5 Complete and sign the contest registration form. 5.3.3.1.6 Pay the required entry fee. 5.3.3.2 Registration must be complete by 09:00 of the first scheduled competition day; no entries will be accepted later than this. [R]5.3.1.1.3 Present proof of having earned the FAI Silver Badge and the Gold Badge distance leg. [X]5.3.1.1.3 Present proof of having earned the FAI Silver Badge. 7. Entry Procedures (RCM 10,18, 19,21, 22, Minor) a) Simpler foreign pilot entry procedures are spelled out: Foreign pilots that have flown in the US can qualify for any contest in the same way as US pilots: based on their Pilot Ranking Score. Those that have not flown in the US have two spaces reserved for them - one pilot per country. (Based on history, it would be most unusual that for any one contest there would be more than two unranked foreign pilots wishing to enter). After the Preferential Entry Deadline, no distinction is made between foreign and US pilots. b) Preferential entry for Sport-class regional contest is governed by Rule X5.4.2: inverted preference applies, but the number of slots may be limited. 5.4 Entry procedures 5.4.1 Pilot Ranking score 5.4.1.1 A prospective entrant's Pilot Ranking score is the greater of: • A ranking score from the current SSA Pilot Ranking List • The best pilot ranking score obtained in an SSA-sanctioned contest during the current calendar year and prior to the Preferential Entry Deadline. 5.4.1.2 If an applicant has earned a greater ranking score subsequent to the publication of the Pilot Ranking List, it is the applicant's responsibility to submit this to contest organizers. 5.4.1.3 Pilots with no ranking score are considered unranked; their Pilot Ranking score is zero. 5.4.2 An applicant's Preference Number is the Pilot Ranking score of Rule 5.4.1. 5.4.3 The Preferential Entry Deadline is 60 days prior to the first scheduled competition day. 5.4.4 Entry applications (Rule 5.3.2) received no later than the Preferential Entry Deadline are ranked in order by preference number (and in case of ties, by date of application). 5.4.5 At the Preferential Entry Deadline, applicants are assigned to available entry slots in order by rank. Any surplus of applications forms a ranked standby list. 5.4.6 Applications received later than the Preferential Entry Deadline are ranked by date of application (and in case of ties, by preference number) and added to the standby list. 5.4.7 After the Preferential Entry Deadline, applicants are admitted to open entry slots in order from the standby list. 5.4.8 The position of a prospective entrant who has not appeared and paid the full entry fee by 9:00 of a class's first scheduled competition day is considered to be open and available to a pilot on the standby list. 5.4.9 Foreign Pilots 5.4.9.1 Foreign pilots (Rule 5.1.5.1) with a Pilot Ranking score (Rule 5.4.1) greater than zero are eligible for entry in the same way as US pilots. 5.4.9.2 Unranked foreign pilots are eligible for entry under the following rules: 5.4.9.2.1 Two preferential entry positions are available. Priority for these goes to one pilot per foreign country, by date of application. 5.4.9.2.2 If one of these positions remains open at the Preferential Entry Deadline, it can be taken by an additional foreign pilot from the country already represented, with priority by date of application. 5.4.9.2.3 Unranked foreign applicants are included among those eligible for entry from the standby list (Rules 5.4.5 - 5.4.7). 5.4.10 Not applicable [X]5.4.2 Preference number 5.4.2.1 Inverted preference applies: an applicant's preference number is 100 minus the Pilot Ranking score of Rule 5.4.1. 5.4.2.2 But contest organizers may limit (on the Application for Sanction form) the entry slots to which inverted preference applies to a number not less than five; for other entry slots, the preference number is the Pilot Ranking score. [R]5.4.4 Applications received no later than the Preferential Entry Deadline are ranked in the following order, without regard to entry class: • Pilots residing within the region, by preference number (and in case of ties, by date of application). • Pilots residing outside the region, by preference number (and in case of ties, by date of application). [R]5.4.10 Entrants accepted into an oversubscribed contest may not change classes. 8. Required use of ELTs (RCM 26, 27, Minor) Rule 6.5.2 is added to allow contest organizers the discretion to require an FAA-approved ELT as part of the minimum required equipment list for all entrants. The use of ELT's will become a mandatory requirement for entry to all SSA competitions beginning in 2006. 6.5 Required equipment 6.5.1 Parachutes Each occupant of a sailplane must be protected by a parachute. This can be accomplished by either of the following: 6.5.1.1 Each occupant wears a parachute. 6.5.1.2 The sailplane is fitted with a ballistic parachute system approved by the sailplane manufacturer and designed to safely lower the plane and all occupants to the ground. 6.5.2 Emergency Locator Transmitters 6.5.2.1 An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) is an impact-activated device that meets the specifications of FAA TSO-C91,TSO-C91a or TSO-C126. 6.5.2.2 An ELT is required in every sailplane at any contest where this requirement is specified by contest organizers prior to the Preferential Entry Deadline. 9. Fixed ballast in a no-ballast contest (RCM 27, Minor) a) Rule 6.8.1.3.2 is added to stipulate that for no-ballast contests, fixed ballast may not be used to increase the flying weight beyond the maximum handicap weight specified in the SSA Sailplane Handicap list. 6.8.1.3 No-ballast rules 6.8.1.3.1 Disposable ballast is prohibited, except that sailplanes may carry disposable tail ballast. 6.8.1.3.2 Fixed ballast is permitted, but not more than an amount that brings the sailplane to its maximum handicap weight, as defined in the SSA Sailplane Handicap list. 9. Fixed ballast in a no-ballast contest (Cont'd) 6.8.1.3.3 For a no-ballast contest (but not for a no-ballast day during a contest that otherwise allows disposable ballast), sailplanes shall at all times fly at a weight within 15 pounds of that used at the first competition takeoff. 10. Electronic transmission equipment (Minor) Rule 6.11.4 is modified to more clearly prohibit the use of wireless data access devices. 6.11 Electronic communication equipment 6.11.1 Each entrant is expected to have a properly-functioning aircraft-band VHF radio capable of transmitting and receiving on 123.3 MHz and 123.5 MHz. 6.11.2 Electronic navigation receivers are permitted. 6.11.3 Wireless telephony is restricted to emergency and ground use. 6.11.4 Use of other electronic devices capable of communication, including wireless data access devices, is prohibited. 11. 20-Meter Two-Seater Class (RCM 46, Minor) Rule 6.12.2 is adjusted to avoid ruling out gliders with more than 2 seats. [R] 6.12.2 20-Meter Two-Seater Class [R] 6.12.2.2 Sailplanes must have sufficient seats to accommodate two adults. Two seats must be occupied during each contest flight. 12. Awards (RCM 52, 53, Minor) The Junior National Champion (determined at the end of the year, based on results of National contests) is awarded the Mozer trophy. At the Sport-class Nationals (where, formerly, the best-placing Junior was considered national champion) a bronze medallion is awarded. [N]7.7 Junior and Feminine National Champions 7.7.1 The titles of Junior and Feminine National Champion will be awarded each year upon the completion of all National competitions. 7.7.2 The National Champion is the eligible pilot who achieves the highest percentage of the maximum possible score (the sum of all winning daily scores) at any US National Championship in Sport and all FAI classes during the calendar year. 7.7.3 A minimum of 60% of the maximum possible score must be achieved for a Junior or Feminine National Champion to be declared. 7.7.4 The Junior National Champion is awarded the Ruldolf W. Mozer trophy. [S]7.1 Awards will be made to regular entrants credited with the following achievements: • Highest final score - the Lattimore Trophy • Highest final score by a junior entrant - Bronze Medallion • Best sportsmanship (as determined by the Contest Competition Committee) - The Ed Finegan Trophy 13. Protests (Minor) Second sentence currently says “Protest against a ruling of the CD will ordinarily not be allowed unless there is clear evidence of a gross inequity.” This is not strictly correct and has been altered. 8.1 Each entrant is expected to follow these rules and the rulings of the Competition Director, who is the enforcer and arbiter of these rules. For a protest against a ruling of the CD to be sustained there must be clear evidence that a provision of these Rules was not followed. 14. Circling direction (RCM 56, Minor) Rule 9.2 has been slightly modified in recognition of the evolution in start control rules. The old left-turn only requirement within 1 mile of a turnpoint, is obsolete. 9.2 Circling within 5 miles of the contest site or within an active start cylinder will be to the left. 15. Task specifications (RCM 29, 31, 34, Minor) a) Rule 10.3.1.1 is modified to add a “Standard Task Time” parameter. This additional parameter provides additional tasking guidance beyond the “Standard Minimum Task Time”. b) Rule 10.3.1.1 establishes minimum task leg lengths for the first leg, and all subsequent tasks legs. c) Rule 10.3.1.3 – Tasking guidance is amended to recommend that time limited tasks be established with a maximum task distance equal to no less than 130% of the expected winners speed multiplied by the minimum task time. 10.3.1 General [N]10.3.1.1 Task Parameters • Standard Minimum Task Distance: 60 miles • Standard Minimum Task Time: 3.0 hours • Standard Task Time: 4.0 hours • Minimum length of first task leg: 5 miles • Minimum length of subsequent task legs: 2 miles 15. Task specifications • Maximum number of task turnpoints: 11 10.3.1.2 Task Selection - Tasks should be selected to provide variety and challenge. The CD should consult available meteorological resources and seek the advice of Task Advisory Committee (Rule 3.1.5). CDs are expected to use a mix of task types, lengths and directions, as conditions dictate. Specific task-setting guidelines are found in the Guide to the Rules; CDs should be familiar with these guidelines. 10.3.1.3 Normal Task - Tasks should make as full use of the available soaring weather as is practical. When feasible, tasks should be set so that the expected minimum completion time is not less than the Standard Task Time. Yet a task should be short enough that a pilot who starts as soon as the task opens and who achieves 75% of the expected winning speed is able to finish. A time-limited task should normally allow a maximum possible distance at least 130% of that achievable in the designated minimum time at the expected winning speed. 10.3.1.4 Minimum Task - The minimum scored distance of a task for which a finish will be awarded is the Standard Minimum Task Distance. 10.3.1.5 Maximum Task - Tasks should be set such that the total time on course of the highest-scoring flights on any two consecutive days is less than 10 hours. But, consistent with this and as conditions allow, it is appropriate for the CD to set occasional tasks that are substantially longer than the Standard Task Time. [R]10.3.1.1 Task Parameters • Standard Minimum Task Distance: 50 miles • Standard Minimum Task Time: 2.0 hours • Standard Task Time: 2.5 hours • Minimum length of first task leg: 5 miles • Minimum length of subsequent task legs: 2 miles • Maximum number of task turnpoints: 11 [X]10.3.1.1 Task Parameters • Standard Minimum Task Distance: 40 miles • Standard Minimum Task Time: 1.5 hours • Standard Task Time: 2.0 hours • Minimum length of first task leg: 5 miles • Minimum length of subsequent task legs: 2 miles • Maximum number of task turnpoints: 11 16. Speed limit recommendation (RCM 28, Minor) Rule 10.8.7 is clarified to more clearly indicate that the maximum speed of 115 mph indicated will apply to pilots while inside any designated Start Cylinder. 10.8.7 Pilots are expected to avoid flight at indicated airspeeds greater than 115 mph while inside a Start Cylinder that has been designated for use by any competition class. 17. Airspace rules (RCM 59, Minor) a) Rule 10.4.1 is an administrative change renaming “Forbidden Airspace” as “Closed Airspace”. b) Rule 10.4.6 is clarified to specify that only one minor airspace violation may be applied during any five minute period. Without this clarification, each fix could be considered a separate violation. c) The entire “10.3.1.6 Airspace” section is reordered under Section 10.4 10.4 Airspace 10.4.1 Closed airspace includes Class A, Class B, Class C, and Restricted or Prohibited airspace. Such airspace is closed at all times, except as specifically announced by the CD. Any airspace that lies above closed airspace is itself considered closed. 10.4.2 Tasks should be set to avoid flight through closed airspace or other areas of high-density traffic. 10.4.3 A start cylinder or a turn area used with a Turn Area Task may overlap closed airspace. Such overlap does not alter a pilot's responsibility to remain clear of the closed airspace. 10.4.4 Contest organizers shall publish an official database of closed airspace in a standardized format prior to the first contest day. The standard electronic format for airspace data is the Tim Newport-Peace .SUA format. 10.4.5 Airspace clearance requirements 10.4.5.1 Horizontal A serious violation occurs if any fix lies within closed airspace. 10.4.5.2 Vertical A minor violation occurs if any fix has a vertical separation from closed airspace less than 500 ft but not less than 100 ft; a serious violation occurs if any fix has a vertical separation from closed airspace less than 100 ft. 10.4.6 Penalty application Multiple minor airspace violations may be applied to one flight, but not more than one per 5 minutes. No more than one serious airspace violation penalty shall apply to one flight. When both minor and serious violations occur, only the serious violation shall be applied. 10.4.7 Gaps in a Flight Log shall be interpreted unfavorably to the pilot: • During any gap of more than one minute, the closest horizontal approach to the nearest closed airspace shall be calculated assuming a speed between fixes of 100 mph. • If in the judgment of the CD there was any realistic possibility of a vertical airspace violation, then the closest vertical approach shall be calculated assuming a speed between fixes of 1000 feet per minute. 18. MAT turnpoint selection (RCM 30, Minor) Rule 10.3.2.2.5 is added allowing the CD to designate a final “steering” turnpoint required immediately prior to a finish. 10.3.2.2 Modified Assigned Task (MAT) - Speed over a course of one or more turnpoints, with a finish at the contest site. 10.3.2.2.1 The CD shall designate a minimum flight time. 10.3.2.2.2 The CD may designate from zero to 11 turnpoints. Designated turnpoints must be attempted in the designated sequence, but a pilot may elect to return home after any turnpoint in the sequence. 10.3.2.2.3 A pilot who achieves all designated turnpoints may elect to fly to additional turnpoints. Such pilot-selected turnpoints must comply with any restrictions the CD has imposed under Rule 10.3.2.2.4, and no turnpoint may be repeated unless at least two intervening turnpoints are claimed (the Start and the Finish are not turnpoints). 10.3.2.2.4 The CD may restrict: • The maximum number of task turnpoints to a number less than the normal maximum of 11. • The maximum number of times any particular turnpoint may be claimed • The choice of the first turnpoint (applies only if the CD designates no turnpoints per Rule 10.3.2.2.2) 10.3.2.2.5 The CD may designate a final turnpoint that all pilots must use immediately prior to a finish. This final turnpoint shall be no further than 5 miles from the finish (line or cylinder perimeter). 19. TAT specification (Minor) a) Rule 10.3.2.3.1 - Administrative change specifying that Turn Areas are synonymous with the term Turnpoint. b) Rule 10.3.2.3.3 - adds clarification that the distance between specified TAT perimeters must also respect the minimum leg length restrictions specified in Rule 10.3.1.1, ie: 5 miles for first leg, 2 miles for subsequent legs. 10.3.2.3 Turn Area Task (TAT) - Speed over a course through one or more turn areas, with a finish at the contest site. 10.3.2.3.1 Turn areas are turnpoints with a designated radius defining a cylinder. 10.3.2.3.2 The CD shall designate a minimum flight time, a sequence of one or more turnpoints and a radius for each which shall be an integral number of miles not greater than 25. 10.3.2.3.3 Turnpoint cylinders shall be chosen so that no task leg can be shorter than the restrictions imposed by Rule 10.3.1.1. 20. Multi-class start guidelines (Minor) Rule 10.8.9 is added to minimize the potential for interferences when multiple classes are starting from multiple start cylinders. 10.8.9 During contests that include more than one competition class, starts shall be chosen to minimize the possibility of conflicts between pilots of different classes. 21. Uniform rule for radio calls when approaching the finish (RCM 38, Minor) a) For all task types, and all finish types, a common radio call procedure will be utilized. Rule 10.9.1.2.1 requires pilots to transmit “[Contest ID] four miles” as measured from the Finish Point. The Finish Point is defined as either the center of the Finish Line or the center of a Finish Cylinder. Referencing the distance from the finish point is less confusing than the current practice of referencing distance to the Finish Perimeter. b) For consistency, Rule 10.9.3.1 is modified to specify a maximum Finish Radius of 2 miles. 10.9.1.2.1 When four miles from the finish point, the pilot shall transmit "[Contest ID] four miles." 10.9.3.1 A task shall include a Finish Point not more than 2 miles from the home field and a Finish Radius not greater than 2 miles. 22. Incomplete flight log (RCM 41b, Minor) Clarification to make it clear that a pilot can submit multiple flight logs in a case where it might produce a more accurate score (as when the first flight log shows he barely missed a TP or Finish Gate). However, the Scorer may then use all submitted logs to check for Closed Airspace violations. 10.5.4 Incomplete flight log 10.5.4.1 A pilot with an incomplete flight log may submit all available flight documentation to the Scorer, who shall examine this to determine the correct scoring. Any portion of any flight log may be used to determine proper control, check for airspace violations, etc. 10.5.4.2 A pilot who makes use of the provisions of this Rule more than once during a competition incurs a penalty for each such additional case. 23. Motorglider self-launch (RCM 51 – Two Year Plan, Major) In 2004, Rule 10.6.3 approved Motorglider self-launch at Regional competitions. This practice has been deemed a success at the Regional level and will now be recommended for implementation at the National contest level. Rule 10.6.3 will now apply to all contests. 10.6.3 Self-launch If approved by the contest organizers and the CD, motorglider pilot may elect to self launch. The following rules apply: 10.6.3.1 The responsibility for the decision to self-launch lies with the pilot. 10.6.3.2 Self-launching gliders shall follow procedures and a flight path as specified by the CD. These shall be chosen to maximize safety (which includes ensuring adequate separation from aerotow launches) and to minimize competitive imbalance by keeping all gliders in substantially the same conditions of weather and lift. 10.6.3.3 Self-launching gliders must shut down their engines no higher than the altitude specified by the CD as part of the self-launch procedure. This altitude shall normally be 800ft higher than the aerotow release altitude. The place designated for engine shut-down shall allow any motorglider unable to stow its engine to make a safe unpowered return to the home field. 10.6.3.4 Within 10 minutes after engine shut-down, self-launching gliders must make their way to a designated position close to the normal aerotow release area, at an altitude no higher than normal aerotow release height. The flight log must show that the climb from this position was achieved in normal lift, and not as the result of a pullup from high speed. 10.6.3.5 Self-launches found not to comply with specified procedures will be penalized. The penalty shall consist of a fixed minimum plus a number of points that in the estimation of the CD represents the maximum possible advantage obtained from the violation (but the total penalty shall not be less than the fixed minimum). Height violations normally incur a penalty of one point per foot. 10.6.3.6 Pilots who wish to relaunch must land at the home field without the use of power. They must launch in the sequence of the CD's auxiliary launch list (Rule 10.6.1.2) . 10.6.3.7 Except for self-launching, any use of the motor ends a pilot's competition flying for the day. 24. Constructive landouts (RCM 43A, Minor) Rule 10.10.3 required pilots desiring credit for a Constructive Landout to claim this on their Landing Card. This rule is deleted as credit for Constructive landouts are now determined automatically. 10.10.3 [No longer needed] 11.2.2.5 Scored landing point 11.2.2.5.1 For incomplete tasks, a scored landing point shall be determined by the Scorer. This is generally the fix (in the case of a motorized sailplane, prior to use of the power unit) that yields the greatest scored distance. But if scored distance is less than half the Standard Minimum Task Distance, the actual landing point is used. 11.2.2.5.2 A pilot who suffered a flight recorder failure can be scored to the actual landing point, provided this is properly claimed on the Landing Card (Rule 10.10.2.3). 25. Airfield landing bonus (Minor) Wording has been changed to omit the requirement that an airfield bonus be claimed on the Landing Card. 10.10.4 Airfield landing bonus 10.10.4.1 A pilot with an incomplete task who lands at an airfield can receive a score bonus for such a landing. 10.10.4.2 The landing must take place at a field designated by the CD as eligible for such a bonus. Eligible fields shall be designated prior to the start of the competition. Unless otherwise announced, all airfields depicted on a current Sectional chart shall be considered eligible. The home airfield is always eligible. 10.10.4.3 A pilot whose scored distance is zero receives no bonus. 10.10.4.4 A pilot of a motorized glider receives no bonus for a landing that takes place after the use of the power unit. 26. Turnpoint control (RCM 58, Minor) Reference to turnpoints with less than 1-mile radius in old paragraph 11.2.2.4.2 has been eliminated. Paragraph 11.2.2.4.3 is expanded with respect to requirement for complete task. 11.2.2.4 Valid turnpoints 11.2.2.4.1 Valid turnpoints are claimed turnpoints that meet the requirements of Rule 10.4 and Rule 10.5.3. 11.2.2.4.2 At each valid turnpoint the Scorer shall determine the fix that in combination with other control fixes gives the pilot the greatest scored distance. Each such control fix is used as the terminating point of one task leg and the initial point of the subsequent leg. 11.2.2.4.3 If all claimed turnpoints are valid, yield a Scored Distance (Rule 11.2.3) not less than the Standard Minimum Task Distance and the pilot obtained a scored start time, a finish time prior to finish closing and landed at the contest site, then the pilot has completed the task. Otherwise, the task is incomplete. 27. Pilot Ranking Scores (RCM 19, 22, Minor) In Nationals, foreign pilots may only fly as guests, but will earn a Ranking Score. In Regionals, foreign pilots may fly as regular entrants. Rule 11.11.1 for both National and Regional competitions is revised to reflect this difference. [N]11.11.1 At the end of an Official competition each regular entrant and each foreign guest entrant receives a Pilot Ranking Score, used to produce the annual SSA Pilot Ranking List and to determine preferential entry into upcoming contests. The Pilot Ranking Score is calculated by this formula: Ranking Score = (Contest Weighting Factor) * (Pilot's Cumulative Score) / (Class Winner's Cumulative Score) [R]11.11.1 At the end of an Official competition each regular entrant receives a Pilot Ranking Score, used to produce the annual SSA Pilot Ranking List and to determine preferential entry into upcoming contests. The Pilot Ranking Score is calculated by this formula: Ranking Score = (Contest Weighting Factor) * (Pilot's Cumulative Score) / (Class Winner's Cumulative Score) 28. Penalties (Minor) a) Administrative Change - The Revised Landing Card penalty has been eliminated. b) Computation of start penalty is moved from 10.8.5.6 to Section 12 – Penalties - for consistency. 12.1.4 Daily penalty categories 12.1.4.1 Missed turnpoint (Rule 10.5.3.3): penalty = 25 + 100 * (miss distance) 12.1.4.2 Wrong start point (Rule 10.8.4.4): penalty = 100 12.1.4.3 Start penalty (Rule 10.8.5.6): 25 plus the sum of the following (neither of which shall be less than zero): • Distance penalty = (Start Distance - Start Radius) * 200 • Height penalty = 25, if (Control Height - MSH) is not greater than 200 ft. otherwise, height penalty = (Control Height - MSH) / 2 12.1.4.4 Improper reporting of start time (Rule 10.8.8): penalty = 10 12.1.4.5 More than one case of incomplete flight documentation (Rule 10.5.4): penalty = 25 12.1.4.6 Administrative violations: maximum penalty = 50 Rules violations that do not fall into other categories are termed Administrative; violations can be assessed a penalty or a fine of up to $5, as determined by the CD and the Contest Competition Committee. 12.1.4.7 Self-launch penalty (Rule 10.6.3): minimum penalty = 100 29. Reporting requirements (RCM 11, Minor) New wording is added specifying that scores must be submitted daily and that all flight logs are to be submitted to the SSA at the end of the contest. 13.1 Daily reporting 13.1.1 The CD and the Scorer shall ensure that contest scores are reported at least daily to the SSA website. When possible, preliminary scores should be posted by 20:00, and updated as changes are made and when scores become Official. 13.1.2 A brief narrative describing each contest day is recommended for inclusion with submitted scores. 13.2 Competition Director's Reporting 13.2.1 The CD shall ensure that an Accident/Incident report is filled out for every incident that leads, or had a reasonable probability of leading, to damage or injury. 13.2.2 Within 14 days of the last scheduled competition day, the CD shall send the following to the SSA: • The Competition Director's Report • A copy of each Accident/Incident Report 13.3 Administrative Reporting Within 14 days of the last scheduled competition day, contest organizers shall send the following: 13.3.1 To each entrant and the SSA: • The Contest Financial Report • The final Official scores, showing daily and cumulative results for all entrants 13.3.2 To the SSA: • A copy of each entrant's Registration Form • The balance of Sanction Fees owed • Complete official scores in computerized form • A copy of every flight log 30. MINOR CHANGES The changes recommended below include miscellaneous administrative changes of a minor nature. a) Notification of acceptance Wording updated to eliminate requirement to mail correspondence, allowing e-mail contact with entrants, and to allow simply a reference to control points (e.g. John Leibacher website). 5.6 Notification of Acceptance - Within two weeks after the preferential entry deadline, a notice of acceptance will be sent to each successful applicant. This notice will confirm the dates of the contest and specify the control points to be used. b) Flight recorder accessories Slight change in wording: entrant must see that Scorer is provided with suitable cables, etc. Eliminates specified requirement that “each entrant”.. must “provide” hardware, cables, etc. to Scorer. 6.7.7 Accessories It is the responsibility of each entrant, prior to the start of competition, to ensure that the Scorer is provided with all software and hardware (cables, etc.) needed to transfer, convert, and check flight logs and to demonstrate their satisfactory operation. c) Task leg distance measurement In addition to the changes under Task Parameters (Item 13), wording that appears while describing starts and finishes has been updated to maintain consistency. 10.8.6 The distance of the first task leg shall be taken as the distance from the Start Point to the control fix at the first turnpoint, minus the Start Radius. 10.9.4 Finish Gate 10.9.4.7 The distance of the final task leg shall be taken as the distance from the control fix at the final turnpoint to the Finish Point. 10.9.3 Finish Cylinder 10.9.3.5 The distance of the final task leg shall be taken as the distance from the control fix at the final turnpoint to the Finish Point, minus the Finish Radius. d) Best-scoring start Clarified wording to ensure that scorer uses start which will yield the most favorable score. 10.8.2.1 A valid start is a start obtained after the task has opened and after the pilot's launch. A pilot must have at least one valid start to be given a scored start time. The best-scoring valid start is used; other starts are ignored.   Revision: 2/5/2005