Description
Oversee and execute race starts to ensure fair, safe, and rule-compliant competition, issuing commands and signals, detecting false starts, and coordinating with timing and officiating crews.
- • Issue recall signals and order re-starts when required.
- • Stage athletes at the line, blocks, platforms, or lanes per assignments.
- • Deliver standard starting commands and initiate each race.
- • Operate start devices (gun, horn, electronic) and sync with timing systems.
- • Monitor set positions and movement to detect false starts.
- • Apply start and false-start rules and report penalties per regulations.
- • Verify start lists, heats, and lane or boat assignments.
- • Inspect starting area, blocks, and platforms for safety and compliance.
- • Coordinate readiness with timers, referees, clerks, and marshals.
- • Maintain control and quiet at the start and direct athletes to proper positions.
- • Communicate infractions and start status to other officials and coaches.
- • Adjust procedures for weather, noise, or adaptive accommodations per rules.
- • Test and calibrate starting equipment and confirm sound/light levels.
- • Start staggered, time-trial, or relay exchange starts per event format.
- • Record and report false starts, delays, and irregularities to meet management.
- • Brief athletes on start procedures and expectations when needed.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
