Creating Retroactive Guidelines: Post-Facto Rule Changes

Clara Adams, a sophomore sprinter from California, experienced a controversial rule change following her victory in the girls' 400 meters at the CIF State Track and Field Championship. Although she distinguished herself by winning, her title was rescinded due to a newly imposed rule after the race.Following her triumph, Clara naturally celebrated, a common action among athletes. Nevertheless, her celebration was deemed inappropriate, leading to her disqualification, a decision that had never been enforced at her school.After finishing the preliminary heat, she secured first place in the finals but faced removal from the standings for allegedly unsportsmanlike conduct. Clara crossed the line an impressive 0.28 seconds ahead of her nearest competitor, joyfully spraying her cleats with a fire extinguisher, a playful nod to sprinter Maurice Greene. Instead of relishing her hard-earned victory, Clara was left to watch as others accepted accolades she fairly earned. Clara's father expressed frustration over officials’ treatment of his daughter and the lack of clarity surrounding the disqualification.