Officiating Offerings – August 2023
These snippets of information are going to be issued regularly by Bowls Tasmania.
Myths and Misconceptions
The Thirds must attempt a measure before they can call an umpire/measurer.
No, the thirds do not have to attempt a measure. Law 40.2.1 states the third can measure, not MUST measure. Either third, player in singles or marker can call for the umpire at any time. The umpire must measure any disputed shot, (Law 43.2.2) with suitable measuring equipment (Law 54) and not by just having a look!
Umpiring and Measuring Tips
The Base Tape:
The Base Tape or Long Tape measure is used in the opposite way to standard tapes with the heavy end against the bowl and the decision end taken to the jack.
To use the Base/Long tape correctly, chock any leaning bowls using chocks or wedges, and place the base tape so it is just touching the first bowl. Then take a position behind the bowl and tape to ensure that the tape is pointing in a straight line from the bowl to the jack. Once the tape is lined up an assistant should be asked to hold the tape securely against the bowl while the umpire/measurer takes the decision end of the tape.
These instructions continue on page 61 of the Officiating Manual and gives you an ideal opportunity to get the manual out, or read online, and check that your techniques are correct.
Base or heavy end to the bowl!
Leonie Price
Officiating, Coaching and Bowling Arm Director
Bowls Tasmania