Officiating Offerings – September 2023
These snippets of information are going to be issued regularly by Bowls Tasmania.
Myths and Misconceptions
The umpire for the day cannot measure for shot when called on the rink they are playing on.
Not True! The umpire of the day is both impartial and their decision is final. (This only changes if the umpire’s decision is related to the meaning or interpretation of a law in which case there will be a right of appeal to the Controlling Body). However, in this ‘own rink’ scenario some umpires may invite both thirds to the head to observe the measure. This is not required by law but adds to being seen as impartial.
Umpiring and Measuring Tips
Long String Measure (Peg and String Measure):
The long string or peg measure is a measuring device approved for use by measurers and umpires at International and all levels below events. The long string measure can be used for measures up to five metres (regular tapes only measure to 3m) or when a jack or bowl is in the ditch and a flexible measure is needed.
If the distance to be measured is longer than can be comfortably reached, seek assistance from another umpire or player. The measurer/umpire should take the decision end while the assistant takes the jack end.
This is a very handy piece of equipment for umpires, it is cheap to buy and can be easily carried in a pocket. Details and pictures on page 60 of the manual.
Leonie Price
Officiating, Coaching and Bowling Arm Director
Bowls Tasmania