8. Competitors are responsible for their own safety both ashore and afloat, which is of overriding importance at all times. 

9.     When making an entry, club Captains must ensure that that their crews are fully briefed and competent to race in the conditions likely to be experienced on the Tideway.  On the day of the event, every individual participant must, with the help where appropriate of a responsible adult, carry out their own personal risk assessment before boating. That risk assessment must include their fitness, health, equipment and technique to determine whether or not they are able to race in the conditions as they find them. THE RACE ORGANISERS ACCEPT NO LIABILITY FOR ACTIONS OF THE CREWS OTHER THAN WHEN DIRECTLY INSTRUCTED BY THE HEAD ORGANISERS AND MARSHALS AND CREWS RACE AT THEIR OWN RISK.

10.  In accordance with TRRC rules, any crew or club which is involved in a verifiable navigation incident on the Tideway may be excluded from the event.  This rule will apply to incidents for the fourteen days prior to and including the day of the event.

11.  All crews and coxes are assumed to have watched the PLA video “Safely navigating in the upper tidal Thames”.  An introduction to steering on the Tideway is available from the TRRC website . The act by your club of putting in an entry will be considered as confirmation that every member of the crew has seen these videos and documents and that these have been read and understood by all steers.

12.  The River will be closed for this event between Barn Elms and Kew Railway Bridge from 10.00 until 14.00 under PLA NTM U20-23. During that period crews must navigate in accordance with the requirements of these Rules and the arrangements in the Safety and Emergency Plan for marshalling, racing finishing and abandonment. Crews must give consideration to other river users. You do not have automatic right of way or priority. 

13.  Crews must obey all instructions from Officials. Failure to observe this rule may lead to a time penalty or disqualification. 

14.  Mechanical Breakdown/Failure: Should a crew have a mechanical steering failure it is essential that the crew stop racing and notify an official of the problem. Crews must not put themselves or others at risk by trying to finish the race with defective steering.

15.  If a member of a crew should fall out of their boat it is essential that the crew stop and help. Following crews must take avoiding action. 

16.  First Aid facilities are available at Auriol Kensington RC and the Boathouses at Barnes Bridge. Points for best access by ambulances are also shown on the course safety map. 

17.  Crews are advised to carry a mobile phone. Safety cover will be provided by the event until half an hour after the last crew has completed the course. If a crew has to contact the emergency services, they should dial 999 and ask for the COASTGUARD. 

18.  Crews are advised to take suitable footwear with them in the boat.