I understand The RRA have banned the use of GPS, While I am a beliver of having to read the river as you see it there is another arguement with regards to safety. I dont think they should be used to navigate the river as such and should maybe limited to a basic model so that the ones with the $$$ dont purchase the top of the line fast acting ones. Maybe they should find a supplier whou could offer one model at a low price so no one has an advantage. Because even Rally drivers have pace notes and it would stop boats entering irrigation channels etc and allow marking of hazzards.
I dont want this to be a shit fight topic but there are two opinions on this and I am keen to hear them, so please post constructive comments only
Harris Marine Forum - General
Racing with GPS
(7 posts) (2945 views)-
Posted 14 years ago #
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Nick has a fairly basic one in the boat and you cant navigate the river with it but it insures you are on the right track, If you had asked me about their use before using Nicks I would have said "no way" Find your own way up the river...but after using it I have changed my mind as it really does provide some safety while not being able to navigate the shallows with it
Posted 14 years ago # -
It keeps it more of a level playing field for those that don't have the huge amount of time and dosh using choppers to identify the best route, then do heaps and pre boating right up to the on the morning of the race. The irrigation channels are part of the game too!
Posted 14 years ago # -
You cant blame the ones that have used choppers or preboating since it is within the rules, It just means the rules need to be clear and enforced for all.....part of any racing is guys trying to push the limits within the rules....so the rules need to be clear
Posted 14 years ago # -
It's probably more of a safety issue having the fastest guys out on a river that they haven't pre-boated though. Then there would be issues of the river changing its course in the days leading up to the race so there would be no advantage anyway. Also I think that having the Nav's eyes in the boat is more dangerous than having him look further ahead at the obstacles as they appear/happen. Also if there is a major more permanent hazard the organisers will put a patrol boat there as well marking it with bright orange dazzle.
Posted 14 years ago #
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