What are the rules for drummers?

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Seat: the drummer sits on the drummer's seat provided and stays seated during racing until the boat returns to the dock to disembark. Drumming: once the boat has cleared the Starting Area (deemed to be 50 metres from the start line), the drummer must actively beat the drum throughout the race. The drum must clearly be seen struck with a stick on the drum skin (top or side) at short, regular intervals, and be audible to officials. Failing to do so may lead to disciplinary action against the crew. False starts: it is the drummer's responsibility to watch the boat holder, aligner and officials and tell the crew to stop when a false start is called. Lost position at the start: the drummer may raise a hand over their head to tell the Starter the crew has lost position. Division: at the Canadian Championships a Division I or Division II drummer may not drum in another division, and Division III drummers may not race in Division I or II. Age limits: in Junior B (16 or younger) and Junior A (18 or younger) categories the drummer must meet the age limit as at December 31. In 24 and Under categories all racers must be 24 or younger (or qualifying post-secondary students). Para: in PD1 and PD2 the drummer will be sighted and must be 12 or older. Source: Rules of Racing, January 2026 Edition, rules 6.1, 6.2, 7.4, 9.6, 9.9.2.