Re: operator standing on things?
 

technically, if you're under 5 ft, you qualify as a dwarf (whether you actually are one or not). I guess you could claim that as a physical dissability, but it would be a little bit of a stretch.

then again, i could be hallucinating, in which case you'll just have to eat lots of vegetables in the next few weeks..

Re: operator standing on things?
 

I honestly can't believe the amount of ignorance and rudeness that has been shown in this forum. There was a driver from one team this last year that required a ramp to get to the controls (he used a wheelchair). Would you consider not letting him play? I hope not! Then why would you consider not allowing someone too short to see over the wall to use a stool?

Go back to the mission statement of FIRST. Isn't it hard to become influenced by the great program if basic participation is disallowed based on disability?

Re: operator standing on things?
 

Ok people, no one is saying that someone shouldnt be allowed to participate because they can't see over the barrier. There's a little bit of a difference between being too short to see above the barrier, and being "a little short" What does "a little short" mean? Well, the average height of a male is approximately 5'10". I would take "a little short" to mean between 5'4" and 5'10".

So, basically, what I (and others) have been trying to say is that if you just arent as tall as everyone else, you cant use something to boost your height up, regardless of whether it will give you an advantage over someone of "average" or taller height.

If someone is short enough that they can't see over the barrier, then obviously FIRST should allow them to be able to stand on something so that they can see the field.

There's a huge difference between being a dwarf, and being a few inches under the average height. Let's all chill out and Im sure we'll find that FIRST will allow an aid in the case of the first situation.

Cory

Re: operator standing on things?
 

The medical definition of being a short statured (which is actually different being than a dwarf because a dwarf is unproportional) is 5'0" in a male and 4'6" in females.

Re: operator standing on things?
 

I am 5ft 2

Re: operator standing on things?
 

Here's a good idea. Let's all settle down for a minute....Okay? Good, let's move forward. Arguing about the rules doesn't change them. Fighting doesn't change them-and neither does feeling righteous. So let's end this discussion until FIRST comes back with an answer. Or until someone finds the answer in the archive and posts it. No need to get feisty. :)

Re: operator standing on things?
 

I talked to a FIRST Staff/ HEAD REF today, i asked him about the question if short drivers should be able to use a a device to prop them higher up, and heres his answer (*cut down in length). Unless there is a physical disability there should be no reason why a such device would be needed. Part of FIRST is choosing your drive team. Many thoughts and decisions should be placed forward when drivers are selected. One of these are heigth issues. If your team choose a short driver then you choose a short driver. So at the heigth of 5'2", a device to raise your point of vision will not be allowed. Also if you plan on using a device or need a device present please clear it through FIRST and your Regional/event Director prior to the event.