How do protests work, and can I query my scores?

Question

Accepted Answer

Under the SSA Rulebook 2025 (Section 2.9):

You can protest a heat result for errors such as heat timing, interference or tabulating errors.
The protest must be in writing on the official SSA Protest Form, handed to the Contest Director within 15 minutes of the heat result being published or announced. In team events it's lodged by the Team Manager or Team Coach; in non-team events by the surfer.
The Contest Director decides after consulting the Head Judge and gives the decision in writing.
No protest is allowed against a judging (scoring) decision, which is irrevocable. Don't approach judges about a call or result; you may be penalised.
If paper scoring is used, you may look at the judges' and tabulator's sheets after your heat has been published, with your manager or coach present at national events.
Scores called by the commentator can't be protested if they turn out wrong.
Video review for interference or missed waves is only allowed if approved before the contest and every heat is filmed in full.

Contest Director penalties can be appealed to the SSA Board (national events) or the district Executive Committee (district events).