(a) Patients shall assemble in the marshalling area. The Marshall shall inform each team of their allocated lane. The remainder of the crew go directly to their allocated lane with their IRB in preparation for the start.
(b) Crews are able to claim bonus time. This is an optional concession, provided at the discretion of the Referee, for crews at the start of events. Each club is allowed a maximum of five minutes bonus time per day of competition, which may be claimed in a minimum of one-minute increments
(c) The process of starting events should commence with a signal or command that indicates “Take Your Mark” followed by a signal or command that indicates “Set” and then followed by a start signal or command that indicates “Go”. If, for any reason, the Starter has to speak to any competitor after either command, the start process shall be recommenced.
(d) On the “Take your Mark” signal from the Starter (usually by whistle or verbal command), the crew shall position themselves on the start line and the IRB shall enter the water and be held at the desired depth wholly within their allocated lane. Check Starter/s may be utilised to guide crews to their starting position. Handlers may assist with the positioning of the IRB.
(e) A maximum of two handlers may hold the IRB to assist with keeping it in place for the start. The motor may be in or out of gear. The handlers may move the IRB at any time (including prior to and after the start signal) as long as the boat is in the “correct IRB starting position” when the driver or crew first make contact with the boat.
Note 1: The “correct IRB starting position“ is defined as the boat being stationary, with the bow facing perpendicular to the wave line and wholly within its lane at a depth of water as determined by the handlers. It is also permitted for the IRB to be placed at an angle to assist the driver and/or crew entry if it is safe to do so.
Note 2: If conditions warrant the Referee may increase the number of handlers to four.
(f) The driver and crewperson shall be positioned adjacent to their respective beach position marker in readiness for a race start with their toes on or behind the start/finish line. If a lane coloured vest is supplied, it must be worn by the driver/s as directed by the Referee.
(g) The Starter then gives the “Set” signal (usually by whistle). Crews may claim bonus time up to and including at the whistle for the set signal. Should IRB equipment be damaged by waves while in the set position and before the start the Referee may, at their discretion, allow for the equipment to be replaced or quickly repaired before proceeding with the start without the loss of bonus time.