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Things to do at the end of the regatta

Abstract

At the end of a regatta the final results have to be calculated in accordance with the scoring system that shall apply. Then, careful planning is necessary to properly award the prizes during a hopefully enjoyable prize-giving ceremony which fits in with the character of the event. Some hints are given how to make this ceremony a dignified and memorable conclusion of the regatta.

Contents

13.1 The final results
12.2 Prize-giving ceremony

13.1 The final results

The final results have to be calculated in accordance with the scoring system described in the Sailing Instructions, usually the Bonus Point or the Low Point Scoring System, as described in RRS A.

This process of producing the final points tally may simply be another computer print-out such as those that have followed each day's racing, dropping each boat's worst score and updating the tally. Without a computer it can be a somewhat laborious process, especially with a large fleet, tallying the points, identifying the worst scores, deducting the appropriate number of points, applying the procedure for tie-breaking and then allocating the final places. See also Appendix 12A.

Once the Race Officer has checked the tabulation and handed over the results, he and his Race Committee may consider their task completed.

13.2 Prize-giving ceremony

The prize-giving is usually associated with the major social function of the regatta, often a formal dinner, and the organizing of this part of the function is the responsibility of the Social Committee (see Section A, Chapter 2.9). The prize-giving ceremony itself, however, requires careful planning to ensure appropriate dignity and a memorable conclusion to the regatta. The prizes should be set out on an appropriately decorated table and in the order in which the presentation is to occur.

There will often be a number of speakers, but the number and length of the speeches should be kept to a minimum. They might include the Commodore of the Host Club, the Race Officer or Regatta Chairman, who may wish to acknowledge the contribution of his team and the sportsmanship of the competitors.

The highest ranking official of the Class Association on whose behalf the regatta has been conducted, and a local dignitary such as the Mayor of the town will also want to speak. There may be further brief speeches from the principal winners (winner only or top three). It is recommended to brief speakers as to the time they have been granted.

The first awards may be expressions of appreciation to various people. Following those, as a general principle, the most commonplace awards should be presented such as the mementos that are given to all competitors. These might be followed by an intermission with some "fun" awards (furthest traveled; most catapults; sprint prize). Heat prizes might follow and then the overall prizes. Next might be special championship prizes such as the top-placed junior, the top-placed lady or veteran, and then last of all, the overall championship winners in ascending order so that the final prize is the climax of the evening.

It is so easy to spoil an otherwise enjoyable occasion by drawing it out unnecessarily. It is just as easy to spoil it by poor organization so that the wrong prizes are given to recipients and time is spent searching names and inscriptions. The person calling the competitors forward to collect their prizes should ensure that he has their correct names, and that he knows how to pronounce them.

The top prize should end the proceedings except for the briefest of farewells and extending good wishes for a safe return home.