I have been tasked by the committee to attempt to find a solution to this problem, now there have been several tests done, the results of which are inconclusive. I can catergorically state that steel cables are not acceptable unless they are in a relatively straight run and are correctly terminated with a thimble of the correct radius for the size of cable and the cable is of certified lifting quality. Ubolt type clamps are not acceptable due to the stress levels generated by them in a point contact.

Seat belt webbing may be acceptable, again consideration should be given to the terminations, I would reccomend using the web adjuster buckles that tighten on impact to form a loop, the ends should be stitched, not heat sealed.

Aramid rope (Kevlar) is acceptable, again providing it is correctly terminated. I have a lot of experience with Kevlar cables and the only way that you can guarantee that the end will not let go is by using a cone or wedge anchor fixing. Knots would not be acceptable as they will loosen no matter how tight you make them.

Our official stance at the moment is that tethers will remain advisory only. This may change in the future.

Personally I am not even sure that they are needed at all, as all arenas should be able to contain failed weapon missiles, otherwise that weapon should not be permitted to run in an arena of insufficient strength.

Arthur Chilcott
FRA Chief Judge.