Obstruction & awards

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by Dholloway1962

Brings up another question, how long do you keep the arm out in the DDB position?

We have pretty much been taught recently to put it up when the OBS occurs then drop it.

I've heard others who say keep it up until just prior to the R/BR reaching the base you thought they would get had there not been OBS. I personally don't like this because it looks kinda silly running around the bases with your arm out.

Whats your thoughts and is there an "approved" ASA mechanic?

In the past, you held it for as long as you had the obstructed runner protected. Once they're no longer protected, you would drop your arm. However, running like that made you look like a 5-year old playing "airplane" (minus the woosh and "nyeeeeearrrrum" sounds).

Now, keep your arm out long enough that anyone watching would notice it, then let it drop. Usually 3-5 seconds or so, give or take.