Comparison-competition/test requirements & What judges expect?
|
My daughter skated in a competition this weekend at the Preliminary Freeskate level. She was 4th in the elements event where everyone did a set number of moves. This placement seemed fair. When the freeskate event was judged she was last. A lot of the same skaters were in this flight. However, there were a lot of Axels and doubles in the other skater's programs. If these jumps are not part of the Preliminary test, why are they allowed in the programs? Should my daughter attempted the Axel, even though she cannot land it? Are points awarded for any attempt? Several of the other skaters fell 3 or 4 times, and she did not fall. How can judges placement range from a 3rd from one judge to 7th from the two other judges?? For clarification, she passed the Preliminary Freeskate in April 1999. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you. Mother of disappointed Skater. |
Linda says:
At most competitions that I have been to, the jumps done in the freestyle part include many elements, both jumps and spins, that are beyond the test requirements. A skater should be working on the elements needed for the next test so these you would expect. For whatever reason, you do see even more difficult elements, especially jumps.
My impression about the judging is that some judges give 'partial' credit for attempting a jump and others do not. Judging is very individual. It may help if you try to talk to a couple of the judges as soon as possible after your daughter skates. Try to talk to one who had your daughter high and another low. It could help to hear what they expect to see.