Minutes of the 46th meeting of the Region EAME Cableski Council
held in Juan Les Pins on 8/9th November,2002 at Le Meriden Hotel
Present: Marie-Anne Persoons President
Nicky Caine Secretary
Maoz Tal
Peter Mach
Juergen Pitz
Juergen Pauen
Jean-Yves Parpette
Apologies Julia Meyer Gromyko – clash of meeting being held in Germany
The Minutes of the meeting held in Noeux les Mines on 15th March, 2002 were discussed as there were a few typing differences but this was due to computer keyboards being different between countries, so after this explanation they were approved unanimously and were duly signed by Marie-Anne and Nicky.
Jean Yves expressed a view that at the moment Cableski is not yet a full discipline with it’s own separate identity but was acknowledged as the way forward for the sport of “Waterski-ing”.
Many skiers were involved in both Tournament and Cableski and Lisa Adams and Bronislava Machova had won the Nationals in Slalom in both disciplines. Other notable skiers involved in both at the top level were Joechen Luers, Irina Tourets and, Britta Lewellyn It was also noted that many of the “older” tournament skiers such as Stephan Wild and Patrice Martin were beginning to show a great interest in being involved with Cableski .
Much discussion took place that the way forward for the sport was to try and work with the other discipline of Cable Wakeboard and organise events where all four events were taking place on the same weekend It was believed that many Skiers/Riders would take part in at least two events. Both competitions would have separate officials but as was demonstrated in France in 2002 it can work very well with co-operation.
It was agreed that as much support as possible would be given to both Cable Wakeboard and Disabled to encourage as many people to “Waterski” but it was not the intention of this committee to try and run any of the other disciplines who have committees of their own.
Our rules of selecting the Athlete’s Representative had been transferred to Tournament, Jan Danihelka had put forward a male skier fromn Czech Republic before last Worlds but had not confirmed that skiers was prepared to stand.
It was agreed that a vote should be taken at every Worlds and Europeans “Skiers meeting” maybe by a paper vote and that candidates willing to stand should be announced before the competition.
It was also agreed that there the election and rules attached to them be included in the Additional Rules.
Last seminar was held in France and 31 people attended and it was hoped that the next seminar would be larger and attract extra people. The same rule as Tournament would be applied that each “First Class” official needs to attend at least one seminar in every three years.
As there was no seminar held in 2001 the “attendance” period would be extended for one year.
The committee’s thanks were to be passed to Anne Browaeys for organising a very enjoyable seminar with delicous food and drink.
Feedback from the Seminar had shown that Maoz’s discussion down on the ski site had given everybody a much better understanding the role of the Technical Officer. With this in mind it was agreed that if possible all seminars should be held near a Cableski site.
Exams would be possible to be taken at Seminar before the season starts which would be helpful for all.
It was noted that “Officials” cards were very late being sent out this season so in future it would be chased up as it was very important that the officials received their cards in good time for the season.
It was agreed that there was a really nice atmosphere at the seminar but the “travel instructions” were a little confused!!
The Czech Republic were not at the moment interested and the Israelis unfortunately still had political problems but it was hoped that the elections due in their country at the end of January beginning of February would help settle the unrest.
After a discussion between Joost de Leyer (Dutch Team Captain ) and Marie-Anne it was decided that it would be possible for Holland to run the seminar in Alphen Aan de Rijn (near to Amsterdam) as it would be a suitable venue as there is a cableski site close. The delegates would stay in an Van Der Valk hotel. The Seminar will be on 15/16th March which is the weekend before the Tournament Seminar on 22/23rd March in Barcelona. Joost will be the chief Organiser.
Juergen Pitz advised that he probably would be unable to attend the Seminar as he had already booked to be away at that time.
It was agreed that the following people would be asked to host workshops;-
Marie-Anne Chair Seminar
Juergen Pauen Homologation
Maoz Tal Technical Officer
Martin Suehss New Rules/Tricks
Nicky Caine Oversee Exams
Jean Yves Parpette Future of the Sport
Joulia Meyer Gromyko Skiers Representative
Peter Mach Communicator with Eastern European Countries
After feedback from last Seminar it was believed that it may be better not to have a top table facing the delegates as this had made the seminar seem to be a “one-way” discussion but maybe people would prefer to sit in a circle to improve participation in the discussions.
Discussion to be had with delegates whether new judges should be taught the same shorthand for tricks to make it easier for the Calculators.
Juergen Pitz had called a meeting to be held in Langenfeld, Germany on 30th November, 1st December to discuss the World Rule book in detail.
Juergen had invited to attend this meeting, Juergen and Heidi Pauen, Marie-Anne Persoons, Martin Suehss, Nicky Caine and Julia Meyer Gromyko.
It was agreed that video analysis tricks would be a very good idea but at the moment it would not be possible to compile due to lack of money and it would be a very time consuming process. However, if it was possible then the tricks needed to be filmed from different angles or alternatively maybe computer graphics could be used.
The following topics were agreed that they should be looked at Rules meeting.
The jump angle, as many of the skiers had been in touch, and had advised that they believed that the angle should be increased.
It was agreed that the rule book should be make simpler so that if necessary it could be adapted for smaller competitions.
Trick values to be discussed and re-valued. Number of tricks allowed reviewed and any other suggestions discussed.
Start speeds for “age categories” to looked at.
Whether “skipping” rope lengths similar to Tournament was needed or desirable.
Whether there should only be one bouy at the exit instead of a “gate”
Frequency control and what is required as back-up timing.
The World Championships had been superb and a big thanks from everybody who had attended to the organisers, club and site owner, helpers and German Federation for such a great event.It was agreed that Martin Graw’s commentary had been very good and kept everybody advised exactly what was going on which contributed to the atmosphere which had been electric. It was believed that about 10,000 spectators had attended the event over the weekend. The only small criticism was that the “Opening Ceremony” had been too long.
Also thanks was sent to Czech Republic Federation for taking over at short notice the organisation of the EAME Juniors and Dauphins and thanks to Latzo Nemes and Peter Mach for negotiating on the committee’s behalf.We were very lucky with the weather for the actual competition as there had been a large rainstorm on the Friday. Once again the skiers and officials thoroughly enjoyed the weekend which ran smoothly.
Competition at Kosice was also very well organised and there was good support. Again only criticism was regarding the Prize Giving Ceremony where only overall Men and Women received recognition
But is felt that as many Juniors and Dauphins had taken part it would have been nice just to give them at least certificates to encourage them.
The competition in Poland had also been very well organised and the event had much better weather than the previous year with good support from the city.There had been many skiers from either Poland or other countries which may have been affected by only being one week after Kosice. Also travelling from Warsaw was a long journey although there was prize money for this event .However, there was a small problem with setting-up measuring system.
In Friedberg there was a “Jump only” event with Martin Suehss as the only judge. There was a query regarding the sanction fee which is charged because of the “service” provided by EAME such as rules, standing list etc. However, this competition was not being homologated and the scores would not appear on the standings list but there had been a cash prize which was an unusual situation.
Langenfeld also held a competition with just jumping. This was a very nice competition but there were not many skiers who wished to compete. The competion started at 16.00 ending at 18.00 followed by the Prize Giving Ceremony and then a party. This event was also cash prize.
Asten in Austria had had to cancel their event due to flooding and it was learned that the Czech Republic has also been badly damaged by flooding however there was not too much damage in Slovakia.
Rouffiac in France held a 4 event competition at which the President of French Federation, Alain Amade attended along with Marc Raymond and Patrice Martin.The site was beautiful and well protected and the site owner had been very happy at the way the event had gone with about 300 spectators.The site has many small chalets , dormitories, economical camping and a restaurant but unfortunately is not near a city. Therefore you either need to fly to Bordeaux or drive there.There would like to hold a 4 event competition for all ages on 21/22 June, 2003, possibly starting on Friday and would like if possible to hold an event each year at the same time.It was agreed that it was a nice site to train at and there was to be a conversation with French Federation to see if it could become the National Training Site.
Jablines would like to host a 4 event in September 2003 but at the moment their building is not finished yet. The site is near Charles de Gaulle airport. It is a large place for all watersports.
The competition held in Orlando had problems due to the fact that there were four major “waterski” competitions being held on the same weekend and therefore there were not many skiers or spectators. Thanks to be sent to all skiers and officials who travelled from Europe to the event to enable Americans to see what Cableski is all about and also to Rene Hoffman for organising it.Thanks also to be passed to Roger Ellis (Scot’s father) who supplied the jump measuring system which he had in his garage but did not know how to work properly so in the end the competition was able to have an “homologated” jump event and Roger learnt how to use the equipment correctly!!.It is a good site which is near the airport and only five minutes from the Best Western Hotel. The hotel supplies a shuttle bus to the site but it is preferable to have your own car.Lisa St.John from American Association come down for the Sunday of the competition and appeared to thoroughly enjoy it and will give her support to furthering the discipline.Kuno Ritschard also came down for part of the competition and discussed with Rene the possibilty of the holding of a major event there.Next year it was agreed that Orlando will host another competition probably on Sunday 28th September (the weekend after Tournament Worlds) and it is hoped that some of the “Tournament” skiers may stay on to experience a “Cable” competition.
The Israelis had a 4 event “Open” and Nationals (Friday and Saturday) at which there were about 1000 spectators including the Sports Minister there on the Saturday. They hope to hold a similar event next year at the same time of the end of October.
The EAME Tournament Council were going to request the AdminCom that they move their “blocked” date to that of last weekend in July which traditionally was the “blocked” date of Cable.
It was felt that most countries would not have a problem moving back one weekend to the previous Tournament weekend but would allow countries to choose whichever date suited them best but may clash with a competition in another country.
It was agreed that this may make countries announce their dates earlier which would be a good thing.
All dates for the Calendar have to be set by 30th November, 2002.
14/15th June 3 event competition at Kiefesfelden.
21/22nd June there is the French International (4 event) to be held at Rouffiac.
28/29th June Kosice is to hold a 4 event and Junior Competition.
Langenfeld originally requested a Slalom/Jump event on 28th June, 2003 but wish to transfer to the following weekend 5th July, 2003.
1/3rd August an International Cash Prize in Alphen Aan De Rhein (Holland near Amsterdam)
16/17th August EAME “Open” Championships Lublin (Poland)
6/7th September 4 event competition at Jablines – France
The EAME Junior and Dauphins will be held in Schloss Dankern, Germany and the date will be announced as soon as possible due to the original date agreed the owners now realise they cannot host it.
31st October/1st November 4 event “Open” competition in Israel
The organiser of EAME “Open” in Poland talks German so Juergen Pitz will liase.
The committee hope that Belorussia may have a competition during the season.
Juergen Pitz would write to Austria and Jean-Yves to Italy to find out if they are considering any events.
The meeting closed at 6.30 on Friday night and commenced again at 9.00am on Saturday morning.
Confirmation that International Cableski Masters would be held in Holland in August.
Marie-Anne distributed for agreement her Cableski report that she was going to present at AdminCom following day and would also be for Congress delegates and after a few small changes it was approved by the Committee.
Juergen Pauen had some queries regarding homologation dossiers he had received over the season and with the committee’s assistance all questions were answered with the Slovak Nationals being upgraded to “Standings List.
The competition in Poland had had no automatic timing, the judges towers were on one side and there had been on exit gate video but it was agreed that this was acceptable for all events apart from “Record Capability”.
Holland to be contacted by Marie-Anne regarding the two events that had been held on consecutive days as it was agreed that you can only hold three rounds of an event if you are using the same lake.
This subject was to be discussed at the Seminar so that competition organisers know the rules.
When the results from Israel which was to be “Normal” had been processed the standings list would be finalised.
Grateful thanks to both Heidi and Juergen Pauen for all their hard work compiling the standing list
And they hope to be able to update it regularly next season and should be able to e-mail the latest version in HTML when needed.
At this point Franz and Sid joined the meeting where they advised the EAME Cable “Open” Championships would be held in Lublin, Poland who will sign another agreement as it has been agreed that there is a change in the entry fees with more monies going to EAME than organisers.
Adolf Marz has sent his regards and wishes to hold Congress in Potsdam in 2004 and confirms that Schloss Dankern wish to hold EAME Juniors in 2003.
The budget has been closed for the Council and it has been agreed we can accrue income. Query to be made at AdminCom regarding monies spent in year as far as we knew there was only expenditure at Seminar which is not the figure being quoted as spent.
Franz would compile a list of medals that were needed this season so that we can discuss how many we need for 2003 season.
It was agreed that a medal could be given how every many skiers competed but only a “title” required more than 3 skiers.
Council advised that we were aware that Tournament were requesting to move the “blocked” National dates so it had been decided that Cable would not block a date for 2003 and would “block” 3rd weekend in July from 2004.
Franz confirmed that the Congress will be held in Vouliagmeni, near Athens on Saturday, 1st February, 2003 and for this year the Council meetings will be held the day before i.e Friday to commence at 9.00 and if needed Councils can meet again after Congress due to finish by 16.00 on Saturday. On Sunday there would be “Media Promotion” due to finish by lunchtime.
Concern was expressed by the committee members that due to meetings being scheduled for before Congress instead of after which it has been in previous years they will need to travel on Thursday which will cause some people work problems.
It was confirmed that Europeans would be held bi-annually on alternative years to Worlds.
Feldkirchen have expressed an interest in running either a 3 event or Wakeboard European Championships.
It was confirmed that the name “European Cup” was owned by EAME and needs to be a “stand alone” event.
Marie-Anne would confirm the invoices that need to be sent out for homologation fees. There were no fines imposed for 2002 season. There is also a Cash Prize levy which Marie-Anne would confirm the amount to be invoiced out as set out in Additional Rules.
Another discussion was held with Franz and Sid regarding holding 4 event competitions but confirming no wish to take over “organisation” of any of the other disciplines.
It had been notified to the Cable Council that Hans Otte was no longer a member of German Federation and had set up a separate Cable Wakeboard Committee within Germany.
It was agreed that one person involved in Cable would be supplied with the password to enable them to make any changes needed to the Calendar.
The Committee were advised that only Cable Wakeboard would be involved in World Games as the lake was too small for 3 event. The co-orindinator/liason officer for Waterskiing at the World Games is Bob Gregory (member of EAME Barefoot Council). The Games were receiving support from Olympic Committee for all sports even those Non-Olympic sports. There had been about 90 waterksi competitors at the World Games held in Akita, Japan.
The Council thanked Franz and Sid for their assistance before they left our meeting to go on to another Council’s meeting.
John Churchward had sent an email expressing his concern regarding the level of judges needed to hold a “Standings List” event and the committee agreed with him and acknowledged that many countries were experiencing difficulties finding high level officials.
After much discussion it was agreed that for a “Standing List” event out of the five event judges, the Chief Judge needed to an International (1st or 2nd Class) Cable Judge and there should also be one further Cable Judge with the final three positions being taken if wished by 3 International (1st or 2nd Class) Tournament Judges.
The Homologator should be International Cable but the Calculator could be National for both Slalom and Jump but if Tricks was to be included then the Calculator needed to be International.
The use of “forerunners” would be discussed at Rules Meeting but agreed use for checking the jump set-up would always be needed.
Two records were set during the season – Zernosek Aleksei 10400 points in Tricks and Irina Tourets 44.4m Jump. Congratulations to both of them.
Marie-Anne will contact Franz Kirsch for the Record certificates to be drawn up.
Oliver Constance and Julia Meyer Gromyko have passed their 2nd Class exams.
Dominique Lakens Douwes, Monika McCutcheon, Elke Ehlmann have passed their 1st Class exams.
Peter Schmoten, Bery Hendricks have passed their International Homologator exams.
Marc Raymond is to take his Theoretical exam for International Homogator.
Peter Mach has taken Theoretical exam but needs to take Pratical for International Homologator.
Maciek Heski has passed International Calculator exam.
Congratulations to them all.
Unfortunately it was also needed to downgrade some officials.
Nicolette Baak, Kees de Peffer, Madeline Henry, and Axel Torbeke to 2nd Class Judges.
Cassada Heros down to National Judge
All Calculators and Homologators were OK
Joachim Richter, Ingo Schaefsmeier and Axel Torbceke to be taken off Cable Technical Officials
To be reviewed again at end of 2003 season.
Request whether Site Survey forms could be posted on web so that they can be downloaded and compiled simply.
It is believed that the cable site in Minsk is not ready yet.
Thomas Bauer has purchased the site at Kiesfelden and therefore it will now probably revert back to being a 3 event venue.
There have been several requests from people interested in looking into setting up cable sites for copies of the Promotional Cable Video.
There is now a Cable in Canada and a new site in Houston but it is only Wakeboard , another in Norway and they maybe interested in running a small competition.
The e-mail from Estonia has been forwarded to Kuno but there has been no response since then.
The maximum votes a country may have is 3 votes.
Marie-Anne would confirm to EAME votes for Cable and advised there are 27 in all.
Marie-Anne thanked the Council for attending this meeting and was looking forward to seeing them all again at 9.00 am on 31st January, 2003 in Greece.
The meeting closed at 5.20pm