ABHDI & SOBHD RULES AND REGULATIONS

Transcription

1 ABHDI & SOBHD RULES AND REGULATIONS 1 I. CHAMPIONSHIPS A. PROCEDURE TO REGISTER AND CONDUCT CHAMPIONSHIPS The Australian Board of Highland Dancing Inc holds the sole authority to grant Championships in Australia. The procedure to be followed to register Championships is as follows. 1. a) The Championship organiser must apply to the Secretary of the State/Regional Committee for a Championship Registration form. This form, when completed, must be returned with the necessary fee and draft copy of the syllabus/schedule to the State/Regional Secretary who will forward the completed Championship Application form to the Secretary of the ABHDI together with the State/Regional Committee s recommendations that the draft copy meets all necessary requirements. (ABHDI 28/4/90 P4) b) Championships must be held under the rules of the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing and must be advertised as Recognised by the SOBHD. A competitor is restricted to a maximum of eight solo dances on any one day. An i.e. four Championship dances and four solo dances. c) The final draft of the syllabus/schedule that is the draft prior to printing, must be forwarded to the State/Regional Committee Secretary at least ninety (90) days prior to printing, so that it can be approved and a copy forwarded to the ABHDI Secretary by the State/Regional Committee at least one month prior to the date of the competition. Date to apply from d) Competition Organisers to include into their Schedules: Any rules pertaining to competition or Championship, released by SOBHD or ABHDI from the time of printing this schedule to the date of the Competition or Championship, will be adhered to. Any change to rules should be announced prior to the commencement of the Championship or competition. (ABHDI 30/4-1/5/05 P7 t) e) The Championship Rules + Step Sheet issued with the ABHDI Championship package must be: i) either included in all championship schedules/syllabi without alteration or displayed in a prominent place at the championship concerned without alteration. (ABHDI Gen No /10/09, P ) ii) be forwarded by hard copy and to State and Regional Secretaries for on-forwarding to Championship Organisers in the format nominated on the application form (ABHDI Gen 147 April 2007 P18) f) PROMOTER OF CHAMPIONSHIPS. Promoter of Championship cannot be an individual. (ABHDI 1-2/10/94 P1-1a.i) g) CHANGE TO TITLE, DATE AND/OR PROMOTER A change to the original title, date period and/or promoter than originally approved by the Board will not be accepted as an automatic renewal application. State/Regional Committee Secretaries must advise the Board in writing, of any requested changes to original application details. Such requests will be dealt with at Board level in the correct manner. (ABHDI 1-2/10/94 P1-1a.ii) A covering letter stating the reason for a change of date must be included with the application. (ABHDI 26/27/4/97 P5-1) h) Championship syllabi circulated with other than application details approved by the Board could result in cancellation of future Championships. (ABHDI 1/10/94 P2-iii)

2 2 CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) i) Where circulation of a syllabus or flyer is considered necessary in order to advertise preparation details with regard to travel, accommodation bookings etc then such document should state that the words: - Proposed Championship - subject to ABHDI approval or similar. (ABHDI 1/10/94 P2 - iv) j) State/Regional Committee Secretaries are responsible for ensuring that the Championship Application Form to Register a Championship is correctly completed with regards to details re championship held within their jurisdiction prior to forwarding onto the Board Secretary. Likewise, they are also responsible for checking syllabi to ensure all SOBHD/ABHDI rules and regulations have been administered correctly prior to forwarding to the Board. (ABHDI 1-2/10/94 P2-v) 2. All Australian Highland Dancing Championships to be held for the period January 1 to December 31 (both days inclusive) in any one year must be registered with the ABHDI Secretary not later than September 1 of the previous year. Only accepted for next current year, the exception being the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia and the supporting championship usually held in conjunction with this particular event. 3. When applying to hold a new Championship, the organiser must have already conducted three successful competitions. 4. For a new Championship, the application must be placed before a scheduled meeting of the Australian Board of Highland Dancing Inc for approval or otherwise. 5. When the Australian Board Executive and/or ABHDI meeting (as requisite) grants approval for the registration of a Championship, the ABHDI Secretary will forward the registration number and copy of rules to the State/Regional Committee Secretary for prompt forwarding to the applicant organiser. 6. Only the exact title, as registered, is allowed to be used for publicity purposes and only that title will appear on certificates. 7. Championships must have at least six entries in advance of the competition and at least six of these entrants must take part on the day of the Championship to go ahead. If less than six compete, the competition can still be held, but that particular section of the Championship is not recognised as such and therefore no certificates for that particular section of the Championship are issued. Prizes as listed can still be awarded. There is no penalty for competing in such Championship as they are still registered and were registered in good faith of having the required minimum of six competitors for each section of the Championship. 8. Heats and Finals When a heat embraces fewer than 50 competitors, there will be no necessity for a final therein, provided the scrutineer is able to select the 1 st, 2 nd, 3 rd, 4 th, 5 th and 6 th placings from the judges markings. However, if the scrutineer is unable to do so, or if the heat embraces 50 or more competitors, the scrutineer shall select a short leet to dance in a final. (SOBHD Constitution VIII Scrutineering b) To select competitors for a final in a championship if a competitor receives an individual placing of 1 st 6 th from any Judge for a particular dance in the Championship, that competitor is entitled to dance in a final for that dance only. (All heats and finals are run in the same way except for the World Highland Dancing Championship at Cowal for under 18 years and Adult) (ABHDI Gen. May P11) It should be noted that each dance needs to be assessed individually to determine the number competing in a heat. The number of dancers competing in each dance (Fling, Sword, Seann Triubhas or Reel) calculated separately for a heat or final a) 50 or more competitors in a particular dance would equal a Heat b) Under 50 competing in a particular dance would be calculated as a Final

3 3 CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) Only the scrutineering sheet containing the Final Championship results would be posted for public display. 9. Only one registered Open Championship is available for any one Association per annum. 10. Championships by any one promoter may be held after a period of eight months, provided they are held in another calendar year. 11. Following approval of application for Championship by ABHDI together with all details outlined in Item 1 and Item 2, the ABHDI are responsible for the allocation of a championship registration number, which includes the year of the Championship. This registration number will be sent to the organiser through the State/Regional Committee concerned. This registration number must be incorporated on the syllabus/schedule and programme of the particular Championship. 12. ABHDI will forward carbonised judging sheets to the organiser through the State/Regional Committee concerned; it is mandatory throughout Australia that uniform carbonised sheets as supplied by ABHDI are utilised by Judges. (ABHDI 2-3/5/98 P3) 13. Promoters must display in a prominent position a readily readable sized notice stating This Championship is registered under SOBHD rules as adopted by ABHDI and quote the ABHDI registration number. 14. Syllabus/Schedule, when available, to be forwarded to the ABHDI through the State/Regional Committee concerned. 15. Competitors must dance the SOBHD Championship Steps, current for the date of the prospective Championship. 16. Championship must be adjudicated by three SOBHD and/or ABHDI judges selected from the current list of eligible names on the official List of Judges affiliated with the ABHDI/SOBHD Panel of Judges Lists. Only under very exceptional circumstances will the ABHDI consider less than three registered judges. 17. Where more than one title is issued to a promoter and these separate Championships are conducted within a short period of time at the same venue or in close proximity, different Judges must be used so that no section is judged twice by the same combination of judges. 18. The piper should not be changed during any one dance of a Championship unless there are very exceptional circumstances. 19. The swords (double hilts) should be identical when more than one dancer is on the platform. 20. Championship winners to be determined by the scrutineering system procedure as outlined by SOBHD/ABHDI over stipulated dances. In the event of a tie the SOBHD/ABHDI scrutineering system procedure must be followed. 21. Correctly spelt Given Name and Surname of competitor must appear next to the number of the relevant competitor on the scrutineering sheet. 22. Not less than two experienced scrutineers to be provided in Championships where competitors entered are small in number and at least three experienced scrutineers to be provided in largely contested Championships. These scrutineers to compile two independent scrutineering sheets for each Championship. 23. Organisers of Championships to be responsible for the provision of suitable work location to enable scrutineers to retain concentration without undue interruptions.

4 4 CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) 24. A Dispute Committee should be set up to deal with any complaints and should be lodged in accordance with the SOBHD/ABHDI rules. At least one technical person must be included in a Dispute Committee. A fee as determined by the ABHDI should accompany any protest and should be forfeited if the complaint is proved frivolous. Current Fee is $5.00 (ABHDI Gen No /5/09, P6 7iii) 25. a) The first six placings of each judge are to be entered on scrutineering sheet and to be posted in a prominent position accessible to the public as soon as possible after presentation of prizes. b) The names of all competitors entered in a Championship, must appear on the scrutineering sheets. 26. The correctly spelt Given Name and Surname and Address of winners and place-getters in Championships to be forwarded to the State/Regional Committee for onward transmission to the ABHDI within ten (10) days of conducting Championships. The ABHDI issues certificates, available for up to three placings of Championship having a required number of six competitors. ABHDI to mail Championship certificates directly to recipients annually in December/January. (ABHDI Gen 139 Oct 2002 P15). Amended (ABHDI Gen 156 April/May 2011 P4). 27. The original duly signed scrutineering sheets, judges sheets, notification of winners and placegetters (Item 26) to be sent to the State/Regional Committee. The promoters should retain for their records a copy of scrutineering sheets on the eventuality of the original going astray. 28. The ABHDI Championship report form duly completed by the organiser and with judges comments on the conduct of the Championship is to be forwarded to the ABHDI Secretary. Scrutineering sheets, Judges Marks and Report Forms must be returned to the ABHDI Secretary within ten days after the event. (ABHDI Gen Oct 2002 P15) Organisers are encouraged to issue Championship report form to judges prior to the event. (ABHDI 26/ P5-3) 29. Should any point not be covered in the foregoing procedures of conducting Championships, State/Regional Committee Secretaries should refer to the ABHDI whose decision shall be final. 30. The protest rule as listed under Section IV Competitions Other Than Championships must be used in the Championship syllabus/schedule. 31. All result sheets and scrutineering sheets referring to Championships must be kept by organisers for twelve (12) months from date of Championship and then immediately destroyed. (ABHDI 20/4/86 P11. Amended SOBHD /11/93 Prop 5) 32. A Championship recognised by the Board must include all four Highland Dances as follows Highland Fling Sword Dance (Gillie Chalium) This dance must be performed over a set of right and left handed raised hilted swords. Seann Triubhas Strathspey and Reel of Tulloch or Strathspey and Highland Reel or Reel of Tulloch (Hullachan) or Strathspey, Highland Reel and Reel of Tulloch (SOBHD /7/05 P 5 6.b) 33. CLOSED CHAMPIONSHIPS All applicants for any closed Championship covering any combination of local government areas within a combination of State/Region must obtain the written agreement from all State and/or Regional Committees concerned and forward such written agreement through the applicant s State/Regional Committee to the ABHDI with their application. (ABHDI 2/1/86 P10-8)

5 5 CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) 34. Closed Championship applications granted by ABHDI in any one year have no precedence unlike open Championships, over any applications received in following years, the ABHDI, after any necessary enquiries, treating each case on its own merit. (ABHDI 2/11/86 P10-9) 35. AGE GROUPING FOR CHAMPIONSHIPS Championship classes must clearly state the age of dancers eligible to enter the class. Where more than one age is included in the class, the age of the youngest competitor eligible to enter that class must be stated. This does not include the oldest age group, which is defined by using the term & over. (SOBHD AGM ) Amalgamation cannot include under 16 and 16 & over age groups. (ABHDI 30/4-1/5/05 P3) The standard age grouping for Championships are:- a) 7 to 11 years (ABHDI Gen. May 2003 P2) b) years c) 16 years and over Championships may be held for individual ages or age groups. i) within age groupings a) and b) ii) within age groups c) Please note: An under 7 Championship cannot be held. Competitors must be 7 years of age OR OVER to be eligible to compete in Championship event. (SOBHD AGM 340 Nov 2002) eg 16 years and under 18 and 18 years and over Championships may be offered. (ABHDI Gen No /5/09, P6 7iii) 36. COMBINING AGE GROUPS IN CHAMPIONSHIPS WHEN INSUFFICIENT ENTRIES a) Age groups may be combined in a Championship but only a lower advertised age group with a higher advertised age group. The competitors must be informed prior to the Championship being danced. Dancers aged 15 years and under cannot be combined with the 16 years and over. (ABHDI April 2002 P4) When combining age groups, with the exception of the 16 & under 18 and 18 years and over age groups, the other age groups can be combined upwards. Eg If there are insufficient entries in the 11 and under 13 years age group, this group can be combined with the 13 & under 16 years group. It cannot be combined with the 7 9 years age group. If there are insufficient entries in either the 16 & under 18 or 18 & over age groups, the two groups can be combined to be 16 & over. Alternatively, the organiser can decide to cancel any group that has insufficient entries. Whatever decision is taken the dancers in the group that is being combined upwards or cancelled must be notified in advance so that they have the option to withdraw from the competition. Where championship age groups are combined prior to day of competition, Championship organisers (via their relevant State/Regional Committee) must advise ABHDI Secretary of any change made prior to the day of event and dancers affected by such change also notified prior to day of competition. (ABHDI May 2010 P4) The Under 18 and Adult can be combined if there are insufficient entries in either age group. (SOBHD 20/3/ P8 b) b) If the Championship age groups have been combined, a list of competitors names and ages should be forwarded with Championship results so that there is a record that the correct procedure has been followed. (ABHDI April 2002 P17)

6 6 CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) c) In the event of there being insufficient entries in a stated age group, prior to or on the day (rule II 1j), the event organiser has the option to amalgamate age groups to meet the minimum number requirements. (SOBHD AGM 340 Nov 2002) d) Should an organiser find that a large number of entries are received for an applied age group and is satisfied that the age group may be split evenly, then the organiser may apply to the ABHDI executive, through the State/Regional Committee Secretary, (at a later date after the championship has been approved) for permission to divide this age group and pay the fee if required. 37. As from 1 July, 1997, organisers may arrange Championships so that the same dance from each championship age group may be danced consecutively (i.e. all the Flings, etc.) but shall not be interspersed with any other event or general section dances. 38. RECOVERY TIME Competition organisers who are conducting championships are reminded to include recovery time (20 minutes) when programming their competitions. Championship organisers are encouraged to conduct concurrent championships to allow competitors sufficient recovery time. Fill-ins for a Strathspey/Reel or Tulloch must be given a break of one dance for recovery time. (ABHDI Gen 146 April/May 2006) 39. SELECTION OF JUDGES a) Commencing from 1 January 1995, an SOBHD or ABHDI Judge cannot judge at the same Championship for more than three (3) years in succession. b) A Judge should only adjudicate at a maximum of 6 championship locations in any one calendar year e.g. Cowal Gathering would be one location but would incorporate Thursday/Friday/Saturday Championship Competitions (SOBHD AGM Nov 2009) c) CHAMPIONSHIP STEP SEMINAR Judges must attend a Championship Step Lecture to remain eligible to adjudicate at Championships during that year. It will be the responsibility of the judge to advise the location of the Championship Step Seminar when renewing their subscription to the Judges Panel. (SOBHD 286 P5-3) d) To ensure judges maintain their ability to assess accurately and quickly a judge must adjudicate at least one competition within a four year period to be eligible to adjudicate at Championship competitions. (SOBHD 286 P5-5) 40. MUSIC At all ABHDI Championships, it is recommended that part of the music be played at the commencement of each dance, for each section of a Championship and where different tempos are required, part of each tempo should be played. (ABHDI Tech 24/10/92 P9-1) 41. RESTRICTIONS No restrictions can be placed on dancers entering a Championship, except in the case of a closed Championship restricted by district. With the exception of the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia. (Reworded - Ad Hoc Meeting 26/4/96). B. CHAMPIONSHIP RULES (To be included in Championship Syllabi/Schedules) 1. This competition is registered with (insert State/Regional competition number and ABHDI Championship number) and will be conducted under the rules and conditions as set down by SOBHD and as adopted by ABHDI. 2. Teachers, interested parties or any other unauthorised person must not communicate with Judges during the Championships. All enquiries to the official table.

7 7 CHAMPIONSHIP RULES (CONTINUED) 3. A competitor who has taken part in any so called Championship not recognised by the Board or any person who has acted as a judge at such an event, shall be ineligible to compete or judge in any recognised Championship or Competition under SOBHD rules until given permission to do so by the Board. Such permission may be withheld for as long as the Board may decide. 4. According to SOBHD rules, there must be at least six entries in advance of the competition date, and at least six of these must take part on the day for the Championship to go ahead. In the event of less than six competitors dancing in any one championship, the section will be danced but the Championship will not be recognised. No certificate, trophy or sash will be presented, but individual prize money will be paid. 5. Competitors do not have to remain in the marshalling area but must return for the correct order of ballot. The onus is on the competitor to return in time for the correct order of ballot. (ABHDI Tech 5/10/85 P3 ratified ABHDI 6/10/85 P8) 6. Any complaint made by an individual against the organisation or adjudication of an event, must be made in writing giving the complainants full name and address, and shall be lodged with the Organiser, if possible, on the day of the event, certainly not later than 48 hours after the event. Such complaint to be accompanied by a fee as determined by the ABHDI which is refundable if protest upheld. 7. All placegetters in Championships are to be dressed in KILT for trophy presentation. 8. Judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 9. a) With the advent of electronic recording equipment there will be no restrictions on the usage of video equipment, provided permission is obtained from the organisers and judges and it does not interfere with the smooth organisation of the competition/championships or in any way restricts the view of the judge/s. b) That Judges and organisers should bear in mind that the judge s decision is final and cannot be subjected to a video replay. II. RULES FOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS CHAMPIONSHIP OF AUSTRALIA. 1. The official name to be Champion of Champions Championship of Australia. (ABHDI 1/10/95 P 5 No. 10) 2. Rules pertaining to this Championship, pages 7-11, ref. 1-27, ABHDI Rules & Regulations Handbook, must be included in the Championship package when forwarding to the State/Regional Committee hosting same. (ABHDI Gen. May 2000 P21-vii b) 3. REGISTRATION FEE The ABHDI to be responsible for the registration fee for the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia (3 age groups) from (ABHDI 26/ P8/12) 4. Proposed rotation of dates for this event (to be applied for by the relevant State Committee/Regional Committee) are: 2012 Tasmania, 2014 Victoria, 2016 South Australia, 2018 New South Wales, 2020 South Queensland 5. Prior to advertising or any other preparation being made for conducting the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia an interested State/Regional Committee must first apply in writing to the ABHDI for the provisional approval. 6. Where circulation of a syllabus or flyer is considered with regard to travel, accommodation bookings etc. then such document should state that the words: - Proposed Championship - subject to ABHDI approval. Champion of Champions Championship merchandise can only be sold by the new organiser after close of event..

8 8 RULES FOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS (CONTINUED) 7. The Champion of Champions Championship of Australia to be held whenever possible in conjunction with the Australian Pipe Band Championships. (ABHDI 20/4/74) 8. 2 DAY EVENT If the organisers choose to conduct a two day event, then the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia must be held on the second day of the competition/s and be scheduled during the A.M. Session while the dancers are fresh. 9. PLANNING AND TIMING OF CHAMPIONSHIP The Champion of Champions Championship of Australia should be given the prestige it deserves and importance as the main event in the programme. The organising committee to schedule the programme to fit within a realistic time frame, taking into account the daylight hours, transport and rest and recreation for the participating dancers, judges and organising committee. The Champion of Champions Championship of Australia should be scheduled so that no other highland dancing events are taking place at the same time. If the organiser is programming a 2 day event then the first day s programme should be contained during a period that will allow the participants ample recovery time and to have adequate rest between each day. The number of hours of attendance for dances in the first day should be carefully considered when programming so dancers can do their optimum best on the second day. The Saturday event championship age groups should be considered carefully by the organiser and the ABHDI as the submission is well in advance of the event, and entries are always large. It would be better to hold more championships than plan for heats and finals, or for the organiser to split age groups if entries are large. (ABHDI Gen 146 April/May 2006) Adequate weather protection should be provided for judges and competitors. This would include over the marshalling areas, taking both the rain and the sun into consideration. 10. Whenever possible, a representative of ABHDI or delegated official to be in attendance at Champion of Champions Championship of Australia. (ABHDI 20/4/74) The organising committee will not be responsible for travel expenses, accommodation or other expenses incurred by the ABHDI Representative in representing the ABHDI at the event. One month prior to the event the ABHDI Executive is to notify the organisers the name of the representative who will be in attendance at the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia. Notification in writing to the ABHDI Representative of his/her duties during the event to allow for some preparation. An opportunity to be provided for the ABHDI Representative to make a short speech at a suitable time during the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia event. The ABHDI Representative is to present the ABHDI Championship Sashes, the ABHDI Australian Champion Award Medals and the ABHDI Teacher and Dancer Award to the recipients during the presentation ceremony. 11. That to be eligible to enter the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia, usually held biennially by ABHDI and in conjunction with the Australian Pipe Band Association, a dancer must have been successful in gaining 1st, 2nd or 3rd placing in a registered ABHDI or SOBHD Championship. (ABHDI 3/4/87 P11 confirmed 15/10/89 P3) 12. Competitors entering the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia must produce documented proof that they have won a 1st, 2nd or 3rd prize in a previous registered ABHDI or SOBHD Championship.

9 9 RULES FOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS (CONTINUED) 13. Competitors to be requested to enclose either a stamped addressed envelope for return of receipt of entry, or address supplied for advice of entries received. (ABHDI Gen 156 April/May 2011 P7) 14. A Championship (closed or open) may not be held in Australia on the same weekend (i.e. the Saturday or Sunday) as the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia unless incorporated with the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia at the same venue. (ABHDI 2/10/94 P18-5) 15. SELECTION OF JUDGES The following ruling which commenced January 1, 1995, i.e. an SOBHD or ABHDI Judge cannot judge at the same Championship for more than three (3) years in succession will also be applicable to Champion of Champions Championship of Australia, becoming effective in the year (ABHDI May 2-3/5/98 P10) 16. Where more than one title is issued to a promoter and these separate Championships are conducted within a short period of time at the same venue or in close proximity, different Judges must be used so that no section is judged twice by the same combination of judges. 17. JUDGES AND PIPERS The Judges and Pipers are to be introduced to the audience prior to the commencement of the competition each day. Adequate breaks and provision of refreshments are to be provided to the Judges and Pipers throughout the day by the organising committee. A detailed documented itinerary for Judges and Pipers should be organised. These details should clearly set out all travel arrangements both International and Interstate. Also included should be all accommodation details, the local transport arrangements to appointments for Judges, meal allowance or supply (per diem) and any other expenses that may be incurred by these officials while being employed or contracted for the position of judging or piping in relation to the event that includes the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia. An agreement to be made with Judge/Piper clearly setting out the responsibilities and monetary (in $ Australian Dollars) limitations of the organiser and the Judge/Piper, with regard to expenses and any other arrangements. It is suggested that Australian Judges follow overseas colleagues and wear tartan for Champion of Champions Championship of Australia competition. The requirement for Judges to wear tartan for Champion of Champions Championship of Australia, to be included in the contract for Judge s agreement. (ABHDI Gen 146 April/May 06) 18. PRIZES Continuity and quality of prizes from one competition organiser to the next is to be consistent. Only prizes as listed in the ABHDI & SOBHD Rules and Regulations Handbook to be presented. (ABHDI 8/10/00 P14 ref.l) Ensure that ABHDI is awarded full credit for its sponsorships in the Schedule, the Program and at the presentation. Each trophy should include a note to the recipient stating: You are responsible for the safe-keeping and maintenance of this trophy and it must be returned to the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia organising committee in the same condition as it was received. (ABHDI/Gen. May 04 P12 b.)

10 10 RULES FOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS (CONTINUED) Individual Dance prizes Prizes for placings in each Championship dance 1st - 6th: Money and/or medal to be awarded to competitors being placed 1st - 6th in each Championship dance. Overall prizes - 1st to 6th: The value of gifts and/or prize money for placings 1-6 overall be the same for all three Champion of Champions Championship of Australia age groups and be: 1st place - $350.00, 2nd place - $300.00, 3rd place - $250.00, 4th place - $200.00, 5th place - $ and 6th place - $ This to be effective from Champion of Champions Championship of Australia (ABHDI Gen 156 April 2011 P11) Championship Certificates Certificates to be awarded for placings 1st - 6th overall in all three Championship age groups. (ABHDI 16-18/4/99 P25-11i) Winners and Teachers Prize The ABHDI provide $50 to be presented on the day to both the winner and Teacher of each of the three age groups of the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia commencing with the event to be conducted in (ABHDI 6/10/96 P12 Motion 5) Sashes ABHDI will provide the Champion of Champions Championships of Australia 1st - 6th place sashes. WIDTH - COLOURS - WORDING - approx. 13 cm, with gold writing and gold fringe 1st place - blue, 2nd place - red, 3rd place - green, 4th place - yellow, 5th place - mauve, 6th place white. AUSTRALIAN BOARD OF HIGHLAND DANCING INC. CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS CHAMPIONSHIP OF AUSTRALIA (place) (age group) (year) Perpetual Trophies Perpetual trophies are provided for placings 1st - 6th. (Amended ABHDI 16-18/4/99 P30-12i) Should any damage be incurred to a Champion of Champions Championship of Australia perpetual trophy whilst stored by the ABHDI, the cost of such damage will be payable by the ABHDI. (ABHDI Gen 157 October 2011 P17). A bond of $ would be required to allow dancers to take home a Champion of Champions Championship of Australia perpetual trophy. Such bond refundable if perpetual is returned in the same condition as it was received. Such bond will be held by the ABHDI. A copy of a condition report signed by both parties will be given to recipient on the day of the competition. Should any damage occur to the perpetual trophy such bond will be lost with the recipient being liable for the balance of the cost of repair to the trophy. (ABHDI Gen 157 October 2011 P18). The consumption of any alcoholic substance from a Champion of Champions Championship of Australia perpetual trophy is not allowed. (ABHDI Gen 156 April/May 2011 P4). A label has been attached to the base of each trophy stating its cleaning instructions and maintenance. Upon return to the ABHDI, the protective carrier provided should accompany the trophy. 19. Special Award This to be named Australian Champion of Champions and presented as follows: i) Special Award for Highest Placed Australian dancer in Champion of Champions Championship of Australia ii) iii) This refers to all three sections This award would also be presented should the overall winner be an Australian, this dancer receiving both awards

11 11 RULES FOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS (CONTINUED) iv) This award to be included as a special ABHDI award in the schedule and program, expense to be borne by ABHDI. (ABHDI Gen.6-7/10/12 P9 b) v) The medals are to be stored at a bank safe custody facility in the State/Territory where the ABHDI is domiciled. (ABHDI Gen. Oct 2004 No 143 P7) vi) The Perpetual Trophies for the Australian Champion of Champions as donated by Margaret Reichelt should be listed in Schedule/Programs. vii) Qualification for this Special Award would be as per SOBHD rule covering qualification by birth or by residency - competitor must qualify by birth or by having been resident in Australia for six months immediately prior to the event. (ABHDI 2-4/10/98 P12 ref 5d) 20. PRIZE GIVING CEREMONY AND PRESENTATION The prize giving ceremony is to be conducted in a prominent position for the public to view. The presentations should be held at a time when the majority of public are still in attendance. If presentations are late in the day, adequate lighting for photographs should be available for this major event in a dancer s career. The stages and/or venue setting should not be dismantled while the presentations are being held. 21. That the names and addresses of the winners of the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia be forwarded to the ABHDI so that the whereabouts of the ABHDI trophies be known and that a form be compiled and sent with the Procedure of Conducting Championships to the organisers of the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia to be returned to the ABHDI signed by recipient of the trophy. (ABHDI 8/4/84 P3 6) 22. To ensure safe keeping of the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia perpetual trophies, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th placegetters of each Champion of Champions Championship of Australia, usually conducted biennially under the auspices of the ABHDI, be presented with the perpetual trophies at the prize giving ceremony of the competition but said trophies must remain in Australia at all times. (ABHDI 3/4/87 P10 3a) (Amended Dec ) 23. All perpetual trophies won by dancers residing outwith Australia must be engraved with the winners names and country, by the State/Regional Committee conducting the Championships and then promptly returned to the Secretary of the ABHDI for safe keeping until the following Championships are held. (ABHDI 3/4/87 P10 3b) (Amended ABHDI 16-18/4/99 P30-12i) Organiser to contact former trophy holders to ensure that the trophies are returned to the Organiser by the 1 st February in the year of holding the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia Championship. 24. When Champion of Champions Championship of Australia is held in conjunction with a Pipe Band Championship, if possible, arrangements should be made for the winners of each Champion of Champions Championship of Australia to march off the ground in front of the winning Australasian Pipe Band. 25. Photographs of the winners of each Champion of Champions Championship of Australia should be supplied to the ABHDI to be included in the ABHDI Photo Album. 26. A report from the organising State/Regional Committee of Champion of Champions Championship of Australia to be submitted to the ABHDI. 27. No public relations stalls or hospitality areas of any kind belonging to overseas Examining bodies will be permitted at the Champion of Champions Championship of Australia.

12 12 RULES FOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS (CONTINUED) 28. VIDEOS a) There are no restrictions on the usage of video equipment, provided permission is obtained from the organisers and judges and it does not interfere with the smooth organisation of the competition/championships or in any way restricts the view of the judge/s. b) Judges and organisers should bear in mind that the judge s decision is final and cannot be subjected to a video replay. c) VIDEOTAPING AT COMPETITIONS It was agreed, after discussion that at an indoor competition a video may be taken for personal use only, provided the Judge(s)/organiser had no objection. At an outdoor competition, provided it is for personal use and not for personal gain, the Board would have no objection. It should be noted that videos taken without permission for commercial gain is strictly forbidden. (SOBHD /5/89 P1 ) (ABHDI Gen No /5/09, P6 7iii) III. PRE-CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITIONS These events are organised on a similar basis to Championships. 1. A Pre-championship may only take place at the same venue as and in conjunction with an authorised Championship. 2. Entry is restricted to those PREMIER dancers who have never won a Championship or a Pre-championship. 3. A competitor may enter both the Championship and Pre-championship provided neither have been won prior to the event. (ABHDI 15-16/4/89 P5) 4. The dances will be the same as for a Championship but set steps are not required. 5. Only one Judge may judge a Pre-championship. 6. The event may be advertised as a Pre-championship section but no title may be used. (As this might cause some confusion with the Championship proper and would certainly detract from the prestigious status of Championship titles.) 7. Standard scrutineering to be used taken to six places. 8. a) There must be a Championship on the programme and no separate registration fee, but must be in conjunction with Championship. b) There must be 6 competitors. (ABHDI 15-16/4/89 P5) 9 It is not compulsory for dancers to compete in all 4 dances to be eligible for an overall trophy. 10. Competition Organisers to include into their Schedules: Any rules pertaining to competition or Championship, released by SOBHD or ABHDI from the time of printing this schedule to the date of the Competition or Championship, will be adhered to. Any change to rules should be announced prior to the commencement of the Championship or competition. (ABHDI 30/4-1/5/05 P7 t) 11. The number of steps danced in each of the four dances in a Pre-championship event to be determined by the organisers of the competition. 12. The name of winners of Pre-championships must be forwarded to the ABHDI with the Championship forms for the purpose of keeping a record of names if required at a future date, past winners names to also be recorded. (ABHDI 13-14/4/91 P9-14d) This record of names will be circulated to Championship Organisers conducting prechampionships with the Championship packs

13 PRE-CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITIONS (CONTINUED) Pre-Championship scrutineering sheets to be returned with Championship scrutineering sheets to ABHDI Secretary. (ABHDI 1-2/1-/94 P13-13) 14. The Pre-championship dances are included in the Eight (8) dance rule. 15. Pre-championship dances will be the same as for a championship but set steps will not be required. The Reel in a Pre-championship can be any Reel. (ABHDI Gen 146 April/May 06) 16. Recommended that Pre-championship events be scheduled, where possible, prior to the Championship. (ABHDI 1-2/5/93 P4/5) IV. COMPETITIONS OTHER THAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 1. All highland dancing competitions in Australia be registered with the appropriate State or Regional Committee. (ABHDI 8/4/78 P7) 2. All competition applications to be made to the Competition Registrar or Secretary of appropriate State or Regional Committee. 3. ORGANISERS MEETINGS - NON ATTENDANCE A meeting for organisers should be held annually and all organisers must attend these meetings. Non attendance at Organisers meetings for a period of two (2) years will result in automatic removal of Registration number. (SOBHD Constitution) 4. It is compulsory for all competitions to put registration numbers on all programmes for the protection of dancers and judges so they will know if it is a registered competition they are travelling to or taking part in locally. Suggestion - that State/Region show initials of State/Region. (ABHDI 11/11/78) 5. Competitors must quote their registration number on the entry form. 6. Organisers of ABHDI competitions must display, in a prominent position, at each venue, a readily readable sized notice stating This competition is registered under SOBHD rules as adopted by ABHDI and quote the ABHDI registered number for Championships and the relevant State or Regional Registered number for non Championship competitions. (ABHDI 24/10/82 P5) 7. All organisers be instructed to have proposed syllabus/schedules in to State or Regional Committees within a set time, designated by your Committee, before the date of competition. (Also refer to special Championship conditions if applicable.) (ABHDI 1/11/86 P9) 8. Schedules for competitions should list the Primary dance as Pas de Basques and High Cuts. No reference to quantity of Pas de Basques and High Cuts should be included in this dance. No swords should be used in Pas de Basques or Pas de Basques and High Cuts. (ABHDI 7/10/01 P13) 9. Any changes to a program should be a) Notified to all competitors concerned either prior to the competition being held if proposed changes are known at that time, or b) Announced at the start of the competition. (ABHDI Tech 17/4/99 P5-4) 10. The length of time considered necessary when judging a competition for such competition to be included as satisfying requirements for eligibility to adjudicate Championships, must cover appropriate Pre-Premier and/or Premier sections for:-r a) No less than 3 hours of judging and only at one registered competition on one day and otherwise b) Be in accordance with the principles of right and proper conduct expected by the SOBHD/ABHDI of organisers and judges in regard to this matter.

14 14 COMPETITIONS OTHER THAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) 11. Competition Organisers to include into their Schedules: Any rules pertaining to competition or Championship, released by SOBHD or ABHDI from the time of printing this schedule to the date of the Competition or Championship, will be adhered to. Any change to rules should be announced prior to the commencement of the Championship or competition. (ABHDI 30/4-1/5/05 P7 t) It is recommended to Competition Organisers that they consider placing a reminder on front of schedules such as Don t forget your Registration Card. (ABHDI Gen 146 April/May 2006) 12. ENQUIRIES Teachers, interested parties or any other unauthorised person must not communicate with judges during a competition. All enquiries to the official table. 13. JUDGES NAMES a) A Judge cannot judge unless their name appears on the List of Judges affiliated with the ABHDI as recorded by the ABHDI Secretary. (ABHDI May 2003 P 6) b) Organisers letters inviting judges to judge at competitions/championships should state clearly whether it is a definite invitation to judge or one for a selection committee. c) Organisers should publicise before competition the judges who will be officiating at the competition so that dancers will not be inconvenienced by the outlay of money and time only to find on arrival that they are unable to compete. Due to the ethical impossibility of their being judged by the judges who could have taught or coached them in the three month period. (ABHDI 20/7/74 P2 and 28/5/77 P2) d) The need to publicise judges names on syllabi/schedule was recommended by the Board. It is requested that competition organisers endeavour to comply with this recommendation. State/Regional Secretaries should seek compliance with the recommendation when syllabi/schedules are received from organisers for approval. (ABHDI 23/4/94 P13) e) Organisers are instructed that, in future, judges names should not be identified by the letters ABHDI or SOBHD. (ABHDI April 2001 P14 9vi) 14. STEPS TO BE DANCED AT COMPETITIONS a) The number of steps to be danced at a competition should be decided by the organiser. Not less than four steps should be danced in the Highland or National in any section with the exception of the Sword Dance when the minimum should be two slow and one quick. b) No set steps be used for any sections, Pre-championships, Premierships or Titles as from 1/7/84. Set steps are only permissible in Championships. (SOBHD /3/83 ABHDI Tech. 7/4/84 P3) c) A dance consists of a combination of basic steps or their alternatives, therefore a dancer repeating any step would not be considered in the placegetters. 15. At all Pre-Premier competitions an Intermediate section must be included in syllabi/schedules. 16. PROTEST RULE (THIS RULE MUST APPEAR ON ALL SYLLABI/SCHEDULES) Any complaint made by an individual against the organisation or adjudication of an event must be made in writing giving the complainant s full name and address, and shall be lodged with the organiser if possible on the day of the event and certainly not later than 48 hours after the event. Such a complaint to be accompanied by a set fee as determined by the ABHDI which is refundable if protest is upheld. Current Fee is $5.00 (ABHDI Gen No /5/09, P6 7iii)

15 15 COMPETITIONS OTHER THAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) 17. VIDEOS a) There are no restrictions on the usage of video equipment, provided permission is obtained from the organisers and judges and it does not interfere with the smooth organisation of the competition/championships or in any way restricts the view of the judge/s. b) Judges and organisers should bear in mind that the judge s decision is final and cannot be subjected to a video replay. c) VIDEOTAPING AT COMPETITIONS It was agreed, after discussion that at an indoor competition a video may be taken for personal use only, provided the Judge(s)/Organiser had no objection. At an outdoor competition, provided it is for personal use and not for personal gain, the Board would have no objection. It should be noted that videos taken without permission for commercial gain is strictly forbidden. (SOBHD /5/89 P1) (ABHDI Gen No /5/09, P6 7iii) 18. DANCES ALLOWED AT A COMPETITION (See SOBHD Constitution & Rules Book - Section B - Regulations and Rules, III Competitions other than Championships) The following is a statement of the rule in regard to the number of dances allowed at a competition in: PREMIER CLASSIFICATION. a) Restricted sections. Competition organisers may offer restricted dances in Premier and all Premier dancers must only be offered no more than the maximum number of dances permitted by the ABHDI/SOBHD. (ABHDI 7/10/01 P9) If a dancer enters as premier restricted and premier in the same competition, it is up to the Competition Organiser to determine if they retain the status of premier restricted throughout the whole competition. This rule must be clearly stated in the schedule. (ABHDI October 2007) b) Premierships and Titles are included in the total of ten (10) dances at any one competition. (ABHDI Exemption SOBHD Minute 333 P7 18/11/01) c) PREMIER COMPETITIONS ABHDI EXEMPTION TO THE 8 DANCE RULE At non-championship events a competitor is restricted to a maximum of eight solo dances on any one day. Dances to be chosen from Highland/Sailor s Hornpipe/Irish Jig group and the following Lesser Known Dances: Flora Macdonald s Fancy, Scottish Lilt, Barracks Johnnie, Highland Laddie, Blue Bonnets, Village Maid, Earl of Errol, Scotch Measure. (ABHDI 1/4/01 P4) There are now no restrictions on the ratio of dances from the Highland/Sailor s Hornpipe/Irish Jig group and the Lesser Known dances to be selected for inclusion in schedules, providing the 8 dance rule is observed. d) A further category of non-solo dances includes Broadswords, Highland Reel teams and the Cakewalk only. These dances are in addition to the SOBHD eight. SOBHD 334 P3 4f) It was agreed, nem com, that 8 solo dances plus Reel or Broadsword teams could be danced but not 10 solo dances. 19. NATIONAL COMPETITIONS A further category of National competitions is allowed on the following conditions. a) That they be on an annual basis only. b) That there should be a maximum of 8 Lesser Known Dances, to be chosen from the eight (8) listed above, plus the Sailors Hornpipe and Irish Jig.

16 16 COMPETITIONS OTHER THAN CHAMPIONSHIPS (CONTINUED) 20. COMPETITION SECTIONS - PRE PREMIER CLASSIFICATION a) PRIMARY are restricted to four events only - Pas de Basque, Pas de Basque and High Cuts, Highland Fling, Sword Dance and can only be offered four events. No Titles, Trophy Dances or Special Dances may be offered to Primary competitors. Age groups in Primary can be offered but dancers must only dance in one age group. Please read page 21 f) V. PRE-PREMIER COMPETITION 1. PRIMARY CATEGORY 1 a) f) In reference to Primary dancers executing Pas de Basques and High Cuts, they are permitted to use any Sword Introduction and to dance: a) 6 pas de basques and 4 high cuts or b) 5 pas de basques, assemble, disassemble then high cuts. (ABHDI 6/10/01 P8) In reference to Pas de Basques the first Pas de Basque would commence with the right foot. (ABHDI Tech May 2003 P7) Please read page 21 V 1(f). b) BEGINNERS, NOVICE categories are restricted to Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Triubhas, a Reel, Flora McDonald s Fancy, Scottish Lilt, a Special or Trophy Fling and can only be offered seven (7) events. When including a Highland Fling in a Pre-Premier Title/Premiership, this Fling would be approved by the Competition Registrar as a Section Fling. If an additional Fling is to be scheduled, it must be programmed as a Special/Trophy Fling. c) INTERMEDIATE category is restricted to Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Triubhas, a Reel, Flora McDonald s Fancy, Scottish Lilt, Wilt thou go to the Barracks Johnnie, Highland Laddie, Sailors Hornpipe, Irish Jig. A competitor is restricted to a maximum of eight dances on any one day. Intermediate dancers cannot repeat any dance at one competition. (SOBHD 341 Nov 2002) 21. REELS a) Reel of Tulloch Organisers should note that when competitors are to be marshalled, either the lowest number first, on the judges left. highest number may enter the stage first as long as the lowest number is on the Judges left. Dancers A, B, C, D would take up position as per diagram:- B D A C (ABHDI Tech 2/5/98P5) b) In Reels when five (5) dancers remain to dance, they should compete in the following manner:- Three (3) with one (1) volunteer and then two (2) with two (2) volunteers. All volunteers should be of the same standard and should complete the dance. Volunteers must fill reel positions D for one (1) volunteer and positions D and C for two (2) volunteers. AT NO TIME SHOULD THERE BE ONE (1) COMPETITOR WITH THREE (3) VOLUNTEERS.