Canoe Ocean Racing Rules
Start
The start line shall be marked clearly with the marks described to the competitors in the race instructions. The start line should be long enough to allow all competitors to line up alongside each other.
Multi-stage races
Where a race is divided into several stages, the starts of the second and subsequent stages shall be carried out individually, or in groups as set out by the organiser. If carried out individually the competitors will leave the stage start in the order of arrival from the previous stage, and at the same intervals of time.
Turns
As described in the race instructions, the marks shall be rounded.
Group Racing And Slipstreaming
While racing in a group, it is the duty of all the competitors in the group to keep clear of each other at all times. This rule applies to every maneuvering within the group and while slipstreaming. Inadvertent contact should be avoided between the crafts.
Collision Or Damage
It is the responsibility of every competitor to avoid the collision, whether they have a right of way or not all the necessary measures must be taken to avoid the same.
Check Points
Competitors are required to land ashore or pass through checkpoints for safety or other reasons, at points designated by the race organizers.
Finish
The finish line must be marked very prominently on both the sides. A competitor's run is complete when he crosses the finish line. He must not cross the finish line more than once at the risk of disqualification. In the team event, all three boats must cross the finish line within 10 seconds of each other. If the team does not pass the finish line within 10 seconds, they will be disqualified for that run.
Disqualification
If a paddler starts in a boat that does not comply with the rules, then, in that case, the competitor is disqualified from the race. Accepting the assistance outside the competition norms also amounts to disqualification.
