Rules about Program Timing (2006)
The Rulebook lists the proper duration for all skating events in the rules
section related to the particular program or event (i.e. the Senior FS and
SP timings are defined in #3640 which is immediately preceding the element
descriptions for the Senior programs).
Sections #3510-3517 contain the rules describing how the time
requirements are interpreted.
Timing starts when the skater (or
either partner in a dance or pairs event) first begins
to move or skate, which is not always at the same time as the music
starts (#3517). Timing continues until skater comes to a complete stop
at the end of the program.
Short Programs (#3511,3512)
- The times specified for Short Programs and Adult FS are
considered to be Maximum Allowed Times.
- There is no deduction or penalty for completing a Short Program in
less time than the specified maximum, as long as all required elements
are completed.
- When the stated time allowance has elapsed, the referee will blow a
whistle, or otherwise inform the judges that the allowed time has
elapsed. ALL JUDGING CEASES IMMEDIATELY.
- Elements started after the
time limit do not count.
- If an element (like a long spin) starts within the allowed time, but
continues beyond time, deductions are taken for overtime, but the
element is counted as "skated" (not omitted).
- A deduction of 0.1 is taken from both marks for each 10 seconds in
excess.
Long Programs, Original Dances, & Free Dances (#3515-3517)
- The times specified for Long Programs (freeskates), ODs and FDs are
nominal times. The skater may complete the program within a window of 10
seconds plus-or-minus from the specified time with no deductions (note
that adult freeskates are specified as not-to-exceed times, as covered
above).
- For each 10 seconds (or portion thereof) longer or shorter than the
permitted window, the judges will assess a 0.1 point deduction ON BOTH
MARKS.
- If a program exceeds the nominal time by 10 seconds, the Referee will
blow a whistle or signal the judges that the allowed time has elapsed.
ALL JUDGING CEASES IMMEDIATELY. If the skater continues to skate,
deductions will accumulate at the rate of 0.1 for each 10 seconds.
- A program 30 seconds or more short of the nominal time will receive no
marks.
For example, for a Junior ladies long program which is supposed to be
3m30s long
