The ISU is delighted to report two highly successful tests of elements of a new judging system at the Nebelhorn Trophy in Oberstdorf, Germany on 5-7 September 2002.
In June 2002 the ISU Congress agreed to amend the rule regarding the number and selection of judges. The judges whose marks determine the result of the competition are selected secretly and randomly by computer from an expanded
panel and it is impossible to tell which marks pertain to which judges, hence protecting the judges from external influence. An operational manual has been completed for this procedure which will be implemented at all ISU Figure Skating Championships, ISU Senior Grand Prix events and Final, plus the ISU Junior Grand Prix Final in the 2002/3 season.
In addition, the Congress also approved development of a revolutionary new scoring system, utilizing innovative computer technology and a cumulative point system for implementation at a later date. At the Nebelhorn Trophy the first trial was conducted of the newly developed scoring system, which however was not used to decide the event results.
The test was a major step forward in a short period of time and a historic moment for the ISU. Further work is necessary, however, to meet high expectations for an
announcement at the end of this year of a complete system using touch-screen technology and the cumulative point criteria for implementation in 2003/4.
There was immediately a very positive response to the interim judging system from the Skaters, Officials and Coaches. It was evident that progress had been made towards the clear objective of bringing change to the sport’s scoring system. The change was considered to be transparent and fair.
Mr Ottavio Cinquanta, ISU President said: ”As ISU President, I personally observed these testing systems in Oberstdorf. I am pleased that the ISU has moved quickly to respond to the public perception of the need to change and at the same time am convinced that such changes are
meaningful and well conceived in the interests of our Skaters in the future’.
Further to the test in Oberstdorf, the interim system for the secret and random selection of judges will commence officially at Smart Ones Skate America, October 24-27, 2002.
The next parallel trial of the complete new scoring system that includes the cumulative points criteria will be conducted at MasterCard Skate Canada International October 31 – November 3, 2002.
A summary of the new procedures can be obtained from the ISU on request.
For further information please contact:
Rowland Jack – Communications Coordinator
Email: jack@isu.ch Tel. +41 21 612 66 66