Launch volunteers are comprised of Launch Drivers and Dock/Support staff.
Launch Drivers :
Support River Control and Emergency Services Committees by providing safe transport on a well equipped launch for the Head of the Charles Regatta. Your specialty is your knowledge of safe handling of a power boat including; moving in tight quarters around rowers, being mindful about your wake, night operation, docking, anchoring, fueling, and equipping your launch.
River Control Launch Drivers: assist the River Control Marshal on board in giving direction to competitors and helping to provide traffic control on the river. Wakeless launches (Stillwater) are utilized for this role, and the driver must be familiar with how to operate this craft.
Safety Launch Drivers: assist the Emergency Services crew (lifeguards and radio operator) in being ready for, recognizing, and responding to emergency situations. Each of the safety launches must stay alert to respond in an emergency. The driver must be able to maneuver the launch quickly, in tight quarters, in a potentially stressful situation. While responding quickly to a potential emergency, the drivers must be alert to their surroundings and make sure to approach with due regard to the safety of those around them. Larger launches with tight turning capability are utilized for this role, usually Whaler, RIB, Carolina Skiff, etc.
You are the captain of the ship/boat! You are responsible for the safety of your passengers and the participants on the water. Keep this in mind at all times, your decision to act depends on it!
Dock/Support Staff:
Assist the launch committee in many different ways.
Morning Dock/Support staff may:
- help with check-in and distribute lunches and supplies or documents
- bail the launches
- check the fuel
- find the correct keys and start the boats
- make sure the launches are equipped with:
- PFD’s
- Fuel
- Nav lights
- HOCR ID Flag & bucket
- Emergency Red Flag
- Trash bag
- Anchor
- Help drivers orient to their launch
- Help drivers off the dock
- Stand-by as a back-up driver if a driver is absent.
Evening Dock/Support staff may:
- Assist launches in docking
- Encourage/support removal of trash from boat
- Remove equipment, if necessary
- Make sure equipment is returned
- Assist with cleaning launch
- Assist with returning launch to the organization that loaned it (Sunday P.M.)