IJSBA is alerting competitors about a ruling update regarding relocations of holes to accommodate new aftermarket handle pole brackets. As is always the case during World Finals crunch time, IJSBA gets alerted of all sorts of things that have been going on in the field and how various technical inspectors have ruled on all of it. The subject of this posting has risen to a level that requires an official interpretation from IJSBA: when an aftermarket handle pole is utilized that does not line up with the OEM hole in the upper deck, what can be done? IJSBA rules do not have any specific provision to allow the relocation of the pass through hole so that it lines up with holes on aftermarket handle poles. IJSBA rules do have a provision to allow reinforcement of the bracket mounting area on a Ski watercraft (SSK.2.9, SKL.2.9, FSKL.2.9).
In all sections, the rule reads as follows: " Handlepole (and mounting bracket) may be modified or aftermarket provided it functions as originally designed. Handlepole attaching point may be reinforced." Lets just get this out of the way now: IJSBA will deem hole relocation legal under the interpretation of "functioning as originally designed" and "reinforcing" together when all of the following are true: 1. the area of pass through is no larger than an OEM ski of the same brand and model; 2. there are signs of reinforcement including the addition of a composite or block off plate; 3. no additional overall airflow is provided for. In summary, if a Ski has utilized an aftermarket handle pole bracket which has hole(s) that do not align with the OEM hole and adequate steps have been taken to ensure the air passage is no grater than OEM with signs of reinforcing the mounting area then the modification will be deemed compliant with the rules.
Please email questions or comments to info@ijsba.com.
