Late arrivals

A “late arrival” is defined as somebody who arrives after the published schedule start time of the event.

The movement is set once the schedule start time has arrived. Once the movement is set and the first boards have been put on the table, the director will only accommodate unannounced late arrivals if it can be done so easily (i.e. without having to move boards that have already been issued).

If a partnership know they will be late, they may telephone ahead. The director will, where convenient, arrange for this partnership to be the “sit-out” on the first round.

Pre-announced late arrivals must arrive before the end of the first round; failure to do so will mean disqualification. If they arrive before the end of the first round, but are unable to complete all the boards for that round, then they will score average minus for any unplayed boards and their opponents will score average plus.

Opponents of late arrivals are not obliged to rush in order to complete the set of boards. However, if it is obvious that all the boards for round will be played, then they must make an effort to finish the round on time.

Where one member of the partnership missing, after a discussion with the player present, the Director will make a decision based on the likelihood of the missing player arriving before the end of the first round.

If there is serious doubt as to the arrival of the missing player, then the movement will not be compromised and the partnership will be excluded. However the Director is obliged to choose a movement, where possible, that will accommodate both possibilities.

Where the host system is in operation and the Host is not required, the director may ask the Host to fill in until the missing player arrives. Should the missing player not arrive before then end of the first round, the Host will play for the entire session.

The player that is present can opt to use the host system if he thinks that his partner will not arrive. If the cut for the host system has already taken place, then the player either plays with the host or replaces the host. Should the player's original partner arrive before the end of the first round then it is too late and the player is sent home.

The Director’s decision is final. Any player who disagrees with the decision should accept it at the time, but may express his feelings later to the Tournament Secretary.

Please be nice to the Director; he works ever so hard, without pay, to make the bridge go smoothly for everyone.