British Tow Surf Association

[hellwoman]

www.b-tsa.co.uk
British Tow Surf Association

Definition
Tow Surfing is a new, high risk, extreme sport, where PWC Operator/athlete sometimes using a rescue board attached to the stern deck; with a determined length of towable line with a grab handle. The PWC operator and athlete must wear Coastguard approved Impact Vests appropriate for use/properly fitted. The athlete is "surfing' a unique design board that incorporates specialized size/weight/foot straps. Operator will tow the athlete into a peaking wave face prior to plunging, using the speed of the vessel to launch his/herself in the wave.
The athlete will then, release the grab handle/line and free surf the wave using the waves energy & power.
It is each Tow team’s responsibility to be adequately educated & informed with the correct, equipment, safety gear & training necessary, to minimise the potential risks & hazards to both the surfer, operator, other persons and the environment.
Objectives
B-TSA is self regulated Association, with the objectives of supporting the safe and responsible growth & development of Tow Surfing in the Britain
Mission Statement
To promote Tow Surfing through the media to the general public in a manner which stresses the importance of Safety, Education, Self Regulation and Provide Information, Awareness & Training
Why we need the organisation
• To encourage all members to use and follow the correct and basic tow surfing etiquette, using & practicing safe procedures & protocols with the correct training & equipment, to make operating as safe as possible, by minimising the risk to all!
• Install a self-governing and regulated body, before regulations and Government/ Council controls are enforced upon us
• Education- seminars- Every 6 months
• Tow Surf community meetings-Every Quarter (Members)
• Guidance-Equipment & Safety
• Community – Organisation meetings/affiliation- a supporting body with a voice for a unique group
• Aim to open up other new launch sites/locations around the country
• Educate the public regarding new PWC’s (Jet ski) 4-stroke technology and its environmental benefits.
Safety guidelines
The basic recommended safety gear to be used while operating a PWC in a Surf/Tow-surf environment:
Essential Comments
A seaworthy, well maintained, serviced and checked PWC 4 stroke recommended as it is environmentally Friendly
Straps to prevent the seat covers coming off
A Rescue sled Recommended Wahoo-Life sled or HSA sled
Extra kill cord (attached near the steering console (desirable))
Correct buoyancy aids/Impact vests Minimum 50 Newtons bouyancy
HSA or equivalent floating Tow Rope and Handle + Quick Release System for Tow Rope
Correct boards with straps for bigger surf
A pair of swim fins Attached to the operator when operating in large surf.
Gear bag/ Throw bag – safety equipment
Mobile phone/VHF in a waterproof pouch Each PWC carrying a VHF must have a VHF licensed operator aboard
Inshore Flare kit Remember to check expiry date
Impeller anti-fouling tools including goggles
Basic tools Pliers, screwdriver, spare spark plug, spark plug spanner
Correct wetsuit/Boots/Gloves/Hood for the time of year
Bow grab line Used for towing/hang grab/safety back-up
Whistle Attached to buoyancy aid to call for help if PWC operator is in water
Desirable Comments
Emergency Tow line- for recovering your PWC/another craft Recommended as a minimum of 3 times length of craft (Approx 9–15 mtrs)
Blunt ended serrated safety knife Safely stowed
First Aid kit Vacuum packed to keep contents dry (Some butchers will do this for you). Check expiry dates.
Anchor, with rope Anchor rope should be 3 times depth of water.
Carabineer/Snap Shackles Always desirable to have at least one spare
Hydration/Food & Water Depending on how long you intend to be afloat. Be prepared for unexpected delays.

It is essential that all operators contact coastguard giving details of your journey and an expected return time. Your vessel should be registered through the ‘CG66 Voluntary Safety Identification Scheme’ with local Coastguard Co-ordination centre. Full details can be found at http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga-hmcg_rescue/mcga-hmcg-cg66.htm
Rules & Regulations
1. All club members are to have Data tag registration and Hull ID number displayed on craft hull.
2. Must be covered by minimum of third party insurance
3. Must be a minimum age of 18
4. All members must comply with having all the essential safety gear on their craft at all times
5. Must always display current club stickers on the bow of their craft and in windscreen of car
6. Use of exclusive/private slipways and beaches will have additional rules & regulations, which must be obeyed
7. Anyone bringing the club into disrepute will be expelled and lose all use of exclusive launch sites & privileges
8. A yellow and red card system will be used to manage offender
9. Absolutely no riding of PWC whilst under the influence of drugs and alcohol
10. Be aware and courteous to other marine and beach users
11. Must never enter a life-guarded patrolled area of a beach
12. Must never operate a PWC within 150 metres of other Surfers/ Swimmers / Divers
13. Always obey any requests from official lifeguards, harbourmasters, or council officials and any local byelaws
14. All club members will respect and obey any new rules instituted at the A.G.M.
15. All club membership stickers will always remain the property of B-TSA, and if requested they must be returned to the Executive
16. Club membership will be paid annually in advance – fee to be decided
17. Tow surf responsibly and always stick to permitted launch sites and riding areas.
18. No tow-in surfing to be conducted at a break/peak being used by paddle- in surfers. If paddle-in surfers enter a break/peak being used by tow surfers the tow surfers will immediately cease towing at that break until vacated by paddle surfers
19. Recommended that no more than 3 vessels are towing at one break/peak at any one time. If additional crafts enter the break / peak then a rotational system will come into effect
20. Only 1 tow team committing to an incoming wave / peak at any one time

21. Only drive on a beach where it is permissible
22. Adhere to local laws and regulations using only demarcated launch sites and obtain permission or permits from relevant authorities before entering restricted areas.
23. Keep your vessel mechanically sound and sea worthy i.e.: RYA & B-TSA compliant
24. Operators to be in possession of a minimum: K38 + 1st Aid Module (a pre-requisite of which is the RYA Basic Competency Certificate)
25. You must obey the Rules and regulations in regards to speed limits and navigation of each Harbour Authority; launch sites or beaches from which you are launching.
26. You must not drive a PWC at a speed exceeding 5 knots within any navigable waters and through a mooring
27. The Freestyle Driving, (Driving a PWC in such a manner that a driver of another vessel would be unable to predict your course and speed in order to avoid a collision with you) is prohibited within 30 meters of another PWC and within 80 meters of another vessel.
28. Wave and wake jumping, defined as driving your PWC over a wave or swell with the aim of becoming airborne, is prohibited.
29. Be considerate and helpful to all other water users
30. Render some form of assistance to anyone in trouble
31. Be environmentally friendly – 4 stroke engines recommended
32. Remain 300 metres away from all marine mammals.
33. Never litter the beach or the sea
34. Never use marker buoys as a slalom course
35. Be safe and enjoy the sport
36. All members to strive to encourage other PWC users and Tow Surfers to operate in a suitable, responsible and safe manner.
Qualifications
All members of the B-TSA should have the RYA Basic PWC Competency Certificate and K38 Tow Surfing Operator + 1st Aid qualification or equivalent.
New members are given 3 months to gain their PWC Tow Surfing Operator Qualification until which time they must only surf with fully qualified members.
Further advanced Training is offered and recommended, but not mandatory.

[hellwoman]

British Tow Surf Association Constitution

Name: British Tow Surf Association
Area
The geographic area in which the club will be active will be at
permitted launch and surfing sites in and around Britain.
Purpose
• The Association originated from the interest demonstrated by persons who tow surf to partake in their sport in an organized, safe and orderly manner.
• The Association shall aim to operate as a community oriented Association, Coordinating and promoting its member’s interest in tow surfing around Britain.
• To promote Tow Surfing through the media to the general public in a manner which stresses the importance of Safety, Education, Self Regulation and Provide Information, Awareness & Training
Aims and Objectives
• Creating a sense of belonging amongst members that share an interest in tow surfing.
• Promoting of safe & responsible tow surfing.
• Acting as a positive voice in the promotion of the tow surfing fraternity.
• To organize suitable events where all safety factors have been addressed.
• The education and recommendation for further training for it’s members
• Liase with local authorities in addressing matters pertinent to Tow Surfing
Membership
• All members of the B-TSA should have the RYA Basic PWC Competency Certificate and K38 Tow Surfing Operator + 1st Aid qualification or equivalent.
New members are given 3 months to gain their PWC Tow Surfing
Operator Qualification until which time they must only surf with
fully qualified members.
• All applications for membership of the Association shall be subject to the approval of B-TSA
• BTSA may terminate a membership at any time, given good cause providing written notice and the opportunity to appeal has been given
• If such member fails to submit a reply within 21 days of receipt of such notice and the opinion of the B-TSA does not exonerate the member concerned, the member shall have forfeited his membership.
• A notice shall be deemed to have been received by a member upon 10 delivery days clear after posting by recorded mail.
• The B-TSA has the right to impose warnings / suspensions or bans, for a period of time on a member who does not operate within the Rules & Regulations of the Association.
Honorary membership shall fall into the following categories:-
• Honorary life member, Life Membership of the BTSA. - an honour given for outstanding achievement which has benefited the BTSA Honorary Life members shall be elected for life and shall be entitled to all the privileges without paying the yearly subscription or any special payment for such life membership. A two thirds majority of those present and voting shall be necessary for such election.
• Patron, Individuals or organisations may from time to time be invited to patronise the BTSA under terms agreed by the Executive Committee.

Affiliate Commercial membership shall be open to select commercial enterprises including but not restricted to:-
• Manufacturers of and/or other equipment related to the Sport.
• Retailers of Boards, PWC’s, Safety and/or other equipment related to the Sport.
• Organisers of Surfing Holidays, Surfaris, Surfing Courses and Surfing Contests.
Subscriptions
The terms of membership subscription shall be considered by the Executive Committee on the basis of the needs of the BTSA and its members and shall submit recommendations to each Annual General meeting for discussion and approval, or otherwise.
Membership Fees
An annual fee shall be decided by the Executive Committee
Benefits of Membership
• Training & International Certification- Discount
• Insurance- Discount
• Supporting the safe development of and creating an official voice for Tow Surfing in Britain
• Affiliation to other PWC/Tow Surfing Clubs /Organisations both within Britain & Internationally, for recognition, support & information
• Information base to get info & advice
• Various Equipment Discount- i.e. Gath/ Life sled/Rhino/Engine Lubricants/First Aid Kits
• Possible new locations to launch from Nationally
Code of Conduct
As stipulated in the Rules & Regulations. These may be amended by the Executive at any time
Executive Committee
• The BTSA will be controlled by an Executive Committee that shall consist of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Safety Officer, Secretary and Treasurer.
• Executive members to serve for 24 months.
• All of the above executive committee members will have the right to vote at meetings.
• The Chairperson of the meeting will have the casting vote if necessary.
Officers
The Officers of the BTSA. shall be the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Safety Officer, Secretary and Treasurer.
They shall be elected as stated herein.
• Officers of the Association must be over 18 years of age.
• The Officers shall be elected at the AGM. 40% in one year and 60% the next and will serve for two years.
• They shall be eligible for re election.
Elections
For the purpose of any such election five members may nominate a candidate by notice in writing. Such nomination to be received at the BTSA office before April 1st in the year of the appointment of said officer. If there shall be no more than one such nomination for the positions, the candidate nominated shall be declared elected. If there shall be two or more candidates a vote will be taken at the AGM.
Every current BTSA member will be entitled to a vote, and will receive from the office of the Association a full list of candidates with the names of their nominees. The candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be deemed to have been elected.
If there shall be no nomination received in writing within the due time, or if any office shall become vacant, the vacancy shall be filled by election by the Executive Committee.
If, because of insufficient nominations, no vote is taken then members will be informed of the names of the officers of the Association as soon as possible.
Officers duties shall commence on 1st day after the AGM following their election.
Co-Option
The Executive Committee will have the power to co-opt members onto the Committee. Co-Opted members will not have any votes on the Committee. The Executive Committee will have the power to appoint sub-committees.
Employees
The Executive Committee shall have power to appoint, pay, and dismiss employees as they may deem necessary subject to contract.

[hellwoman]

General Meetings
• Annual General meeting (AGM). The BTSA shall hold an AGM in every calendar year and eighteen months shall not elapse without an AGM. The time and place of each AGM shall be determined by the Executive Committee.
• Extraordinary Meeting (EGM). Any other general meeting of the BTSA shall be deemed an EGM. The Executive Committee can call an EGM at any time. Members of the BTSA can call an EGM, serving notice to the BTSA office, provided that the reason for the meeting and the nature of the business to be conducted is given and that this call is supported by 10 Full Members. The Secretary shall convene the EGM within 30 days of receiving such notice.
Notice of meetings
• Thirty days notice must be given in writing of an AGM or any other convened meeting of the BTSA (excluding committee meetings for which 14 days notice must be given). The notice must specify the place, the day and the hour of the meeting. Included in the Agenda must be items of special business, the nature of that business, and be sent to all full Members, or the full membership of the committee for any committee meeting. All items of special business for AGM and EGM’s must be received at the BTSA office 30 days prior to the meeting.
• The accidental omission to give notice to, or the non receipt of such notice, by any person or organisation entitled to receive such notice shall not invalidate any resolutions passed, or proceedings at any meeting.
• Only Full Members of the BTSA will be invited to General Meetings.

Proceedings at Meetings
All business transacted at General Meetings shall be deemed special with the exception of:
• The presentation and, if accepted, the passing of the accounts for the previous year prior to the meeting
Any other business will only be allowed at the discretion of the Chairman of the meeting.
The Chairman of the BTSA shall preside as Chairman at every General meeting, but if there be no such Chairman, or if at any meeting he/she shall not be present within fifteen minutes of the due time or if he/she has not notified the Secretary that he/she will be more than fifteen minutes but not later than thirty minutes after the allotted time of commencement of business it shall be deemed that he/she will not be present for that meeting and the Vice Chairman shall preside at the meeting. If the Vice Chairman is not present then any member of the BTSA may be chosen by the Executive Committee to preside.
The Chairman will run all meetings including General Meetings in accordance with the Articles laid down herein and will take voting from members either by show of hands or by ballot if it is so desired by a majority show of hands at the said meeting.
In the event of an equality of votes the Chairman of the meeting will have the casting vote, unless, otherwise stated herein.
The Committee will fill any vacancies arising in the Committee before the AGM.
Quorum
At all General Meetings of the BTSA a quorum shall be deemed to consist of not less than 10 members. To constitute a quorum at committee meetings 3 fully elected or properly constituted members must be present at the commencement of business.
At all AGM should a quorum not be present by forty five minutes of the due starting time then the meeting shall be abandoned and reconvened as soon as possible thereafter, giving due notice as herein provided.
Default of Membership.
The Executive Committee will have the power to suspend indefinitely any members who shall be deemed as having severely offended against the rules of the BTSA or whose conduct has rendered him/her unfit in the opinion of the Committee for membership of the BTSA. No member shall be expelled without first having the opportunity to appear or make written representation before the Committee to answer complaints made against him/her. In the case of drug taking, members will be subject to the rules currently in force at that time and subject to the disciplinary action contained within those regulations.
If any person shall fail to pay the appropriate membership subscription within 30 days after it has become due their membership will lapse and all registration documents must be returned to the Association.
Bye-laws and other Regulations
The Executive Committee may from time to time make, repeal, and amend all bye-laws and other regulations, which shall not be inconsistent with these Articles, if deemed think expedient for the management and well-being of the BTSA. All bye-laws and regulations made by the Committee under this provision shall be binding upon all members until repealed by the Committee or set aside by a General Meeting of the BTSA. All new, revised or other alteration to these rules must be tabled at the next AGM for discussion and ratification or otherwise.
Financial Year
The financial year of the BTSA shall be from the first day of January to the last day of December in the year, to which date the accounts of the BTSA shall be balanced.
Accounts
The Treasurer shall ensure that proper books of accounts be kept with respect to:-
• All sums of money received and expended by the BTSA and the matters in respect of which receipts and expenditure take place.
• All purchases and sales of goods by the BTSA.
• The assets and liabilities of the BTSA.
Minutes
Proper minutes of all meetings shall be kept by the Secretary, or in his/her absence any member so designated by the Chair. Minutes of all General Meetings shall be made available to all Full Members.
Residency
In the case of British or National eligibility for Championship entry or team selection, members will be subject to the residency qualification requirement in force at that time. (See contest rules)
Dissolution
If upon the winding up or the dissolution of the BTSA there remains, after the satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities, any property whatsoever, the same shall be given or transferred to some other Institution or Institutions having charitable objects similar to the objects of the BTSA.
The said property shall not be paid to, or distributed amongst, the members of the BTSA.

Elected Officers of the BT SA.
Chairman
2006 – 2008 Chris Bertish

Vice Chairman
2006 – 2007 Duncan Scott

Safety Advisers
2006 – 2008 RNLI

Secretariat
2006 – 2008 BSA

Treasurer
2006 – 2007 BSA