USAFK Sanctioning Guidelines

Guidelines for Sanctioned Events - 2009

The following illustrates the intention of the USA Freestyle Kayaking Committee to create a skeleton for the Freestyle body. We're trying to balance the structure that we need to provide consistency for athletes and sponsors with flexibility that will encourage even cadets and squirt boaters to participate. Thanks to all who are contributing to this effort!

Competition

1- The event must include Men’s and Women’s Pro and Junior Kayak classes as part of the competition; other classes such as C1, OC1, Squirt, Cadet, and Amateur are optional.

2- The event is strongly encouraged to include a downriver, boater-cross or a creek race.

3- The event must utilize ICF Freestyle and Squirt rules for both event procedure (e.g., number of judges) and scoring (not applicable for boatercross, creek, etc.) as posted and otherwise available from USAFK and USA Canoe Kayak. Variances will be stated in writing by the USAFK (e.g., pending updates by ICF that are already being implemented by the US and other countries). Submit requests for variances in writing and for approved by the USAFK prior to the close of event registration

4- Cash prizes will be awarded for a minimum of Top 3 places in both Men’s and Women’s Pro Level events.

5- A minimum of three (3) USAFK approved judges and one (1) administrator will be paid according to USAFK recommendations for duration of the event for all Pro and Junior classes. The USAFK recommends, but does not require, the use of a Head Judge.

6- The event will provide three experienced and/or approved scribes.

7- Squirt judges and/or scribes may be hired for their specific expertise.

8- Event scribes will use USAFK approved scribe sheets and scoring systems.

Communication

9- The event website will link to the USAFK site. Website links and use the USAFK logo and name must be prior approved. Non-sanctioned events may not use the USAFK logo.

10- Competition classes, rules, requirements, and registration information for events must be posted at least one month before the first registration deadline on the USAFK website and any printed material.

11- Provide event location directions and lodging information to the USAFK to post and share with the kayak community.

12- Provide event results to the USAFK for posting within 24 hours of completion of event.

Financial

13 - The USAFK seeks revenue and cost sharing such that the event enhances the value of the host city and site, and the competitors are able to experience the highest quality competitive experience possible. Partnership proposals are welcome

Events Interested in Hosting a Nationals or Team Trials Event

1- Provide the request two (2) years prior to the event year (i.e., apply in 2009 for 2011).

2- Host a USAFK sanctioned event prior to the request submission and must have met all requirements at that time.

3- Show the event has predictable, adequate water flow and quality for training.

4- The host city must provide a plan or set of options for lodging or camping for participants and spectators.

5- If request is for Team Trials, the venue must have a feature similar in nature to the World’s feature for the following year.

6- The event will provide for ALL classes: Pro M/W, Junior M/W, C1,OC1 and Squirt.