Duncan MacKinnon Awarded FISA Accreditation

Recognising Excellence: Duncan MacKinnon Awarded World Rowing (FISA) Umpire Accreditation

Rowing Victoria is proud to celebrate the achievement of Duncan MacKinnon, who has recently earned his official accreditation as a World Rowing (FISA) umpire, a prestigious milestone in the world of international rowing officiating.

In August 2024, Duncan travelled to St Catharines, near Toronto, Canada, to sit the highly competitive FISA Umpire’s Examination. This rigorous process, overseen by World Rowing, is designed to ensure that umpires officiating at the highest levels of the sport possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and professionalism to make informed decisions under pressure.

The examination began with a demanding three-hour written test, covering six critical areas. These were not only the expected topics of the Rules of Racing, umpiring practice, course layout and boat design, but also included the World Rowing Statutes, advertising rules, coastal rowing, progressions, and beach sprints. Each question was presented for just one minute via PowerPoint, giving candidates limited time to review. Many questions had multiple correct answers, testing not only factual knowledge but also depth of understanding. Of the ten candidates who sat the exam, only eight progressed to the next stage.

The oral exam, lasting approximately 90 minutes, was divided into three parts. Duncan was assessed on course setup and umpiring scenarios, including positioning and handling re-rows. The second part focused on rule application, particularly relating to progressions, using additional visual questions. The final section involved start simulations, including scenarios such as incorrect crews arriving at the start and clashes or alignment issues off the start. All parts required confident, accurate responses in real time. This stage assessed not only rule knowledge but also communication, judgement, and a commitment to fairness and athlete safety, all of which Duncan demonstrated with clarity.

Successfully completing this process is a reflection of years of experience, commitment to officiating, and extensive preparation, ably assisted by mentoring from David Grubits, René Klupacs, Greg Smith (NSW), Chris Tucker (NSW) and Bill Webster – each of them accomplished FISA umpires in their own right. It is a rare and prestigious accomplishment, and one that Duncan has achieved with distinction.

As part of this achievement, Duncan has been confirmed on the World Rowing jury for the 2025 World Rowing Cup I in Varese, Italy, from 13 to 15 June. This event is a key part of the annual World Rowing Cup series and provides Duncan with the opportunity to apply his expertise on the global stage, an honour that reflects both his capability and reputation within the umpiring community.

Duncan’s success reflects his longstanding commitment to continuous improvement and his significant contributions to the rowing community. It is also an inspiration to others within Australia’s rowing community who may be considering the international pathway.

We extend our congratulations and thanks to Duncan, not only for this accomplishment, but for the dedication, mentorship, and professionalism he continues to share with umpires and rowers alike.