A quick summary.
Personally, I feel judges are far too critical of bent elbows at the START of a cast. Depending on arm length, it can be near impossible for some kids to do that.
Straight arms should be required on the way up, but not while hips are still touching the rail.
In fact, I’d say it’s easiest to deliberately have the arms bent with beginners. Later keep them straighter and straighter earlier.
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