Why is it so difficult to disqualify someone for violating the rules?

February 24, 2026

Civilian Marksmanship Program▸Youth 3 PAR▸Why is it so difficult to disqualify someone for violating the rules?

Some old-school match officials who came from traditions where the Range Officer was god and could instantly disqualify anyone they thought violated a rule have questioned why today’s 3PAR rules seem to reduce their authority. 3PAR rules require match officials to first decide if a violation is a “concealed violation” where an unfair advantage was gained (7.19.2) or an “open violation” where there is no evidence of an unfair advantage. In the latter case, the match official must first give a warning and opportunity to correct the fault. If the athlete continues to fire without correcting the fault, two points must be deducted. Only if an athlete refuses to correct the fault can disqualification be considered. And disqualification can only be decided by two officials, not just one. Further, any person who is penalized or disqualified has a right to protest that decision. These rules were adopted because there have been unreasonable, arbitrary disqualifications in the past and because 3PAR rules are athlete centered. 3PAR rules recognize that most rule violations by junior shooters come from not knowing or understanding the rules. These rules see education as the foundation of enforcement. For most violations, a simple warning, with an explanation of the rule, will bring a quick correction and a grateful athlete, parent and coach. That leaves disqualification as an extreme step that should only be considered for the most serious offenses