Question – What time(s) are written on a DQ slip?

Question

What time(s) are written on a DQ slip?

Solution/Recommendation

Based on the Canadian Rule book posted on Oct 30th, 2024:

• Rule II.C2.1.8.2 Infractions shall be reported immediately through channels established by the meet manager and approved by the Referee. The infraction shall be recorded on the approved disqualification form which shall be signed by the official. When the disqualification is accepted, it shall be signed by the Referee on disqualification form.
• Rule II.C2.1.8.3 The swimmer, or the club coach, shall be informed of the full particulars of the disqualification within fifteen (15) minutes after the swimmer’s race. However, the disqualification shall stand, even though the swimmer or coach is not informed within the fifteen (15) minute period, providing all reasonable efforts have been made to do so. When disqualifications are announced through a public address system, this shall satisfy the requirements of this rule.

The disqualification forms were updated July 24, 2024. The DQ form shall be completed by the official, the referee shall sign it and record the finish time of the heat. This shall match the finish time that is recorded on the referee’s heat sheet. The time the disqualification is announced, or the coach was informed shall also be recorded. This will determine compliance to Rule II.C2.1.8.3.

Note: RATIONALE FOR UPDATE TO DQ FORM TEMPLATE

The Swimming Canada DQ form template has been updated to better support our practices in following rule C2.1.8.3, which requires officials to make all reasonable efforts to provide DQ notifications within 15 minutes.

By recording both the end of race time and the time of notification on the DQ form, determining if 15 minutes has elapsed becomes straightforward for all stakeholders.

Transparency increases accountability, which in turn fosters trust and respect from our coaches & athletes.