USC Observer Training Complete

The first GH-USC Observer Training class took place this past Saturday. It was a well-attended event with 21 participants. The comprehensive curriculum covered a wealth of information and topics related to this inaugural tournament event

Bob Hueter, Director of Mote Marine Laboratory's Center for Shark Research, along with Jack Morris, Senior Biologist of Mote's Shark Biology Program and manager of the Marine Experimental Research Facility covered species identification for all 12 eligible species in the GH-USC and tagging procedures for both conventional and satellite tagging operations that will take place within the competition.

USC Directors: Sean Paxton, Brooks Paxton II and Captain Robert Moore covered the topics of:

- Professional Conduct
- Documenting Catch & Release Procedures
- Rules and Regulations of the USC
- Competitive Point Scoring
- Reporting Rules Violations

CLICK PHOTO for Observer Names

CLICK PHOTO for Observer Names

All presenters and instructors collectively walked observers through the choreography that will take place between competing teams and researchers during the capture, documentation, tagging, measuring and release of all sharks.

It was a successful and collaborative effort by everyone in attendance, and plenty of excellent questions were asked, allowing some of the finer points of this innovative format to be finalized.

A special thanks to the Smuggler's Group for providing refreshments all day and an excellent catered lunch, and to the Laishley Marina for providing the meeting facilities.

The Observer Program is an integral component to the vision of the GH-USC, and we respect and appreciate them taking the time to participate. Congratulations to the first class of certified GH-USC Observers!