![]() If the obstacle is a fallen competitor, or an obstacle that has come onto the ice because of an opponent’s rule violation, the racer is allowed a fresh start. A broken skate or dirty ice is not an acceptable obstacle. If a competitor is unable to complete a race because of an obstacle on the ice, the skater is allowed to start again. Leaving inner curve – If a skater, because of high speed, a fall or other incidents, cannot hold the inner curve or the first part of the finishing straight, and interferes with the skater in the outer lane, this will result in a disqualification.Ī competitor who is interfered with, through no fault of his or her own, is allowed to make a fresh start, and the best time of his two races counts. This offense may result in the skater being disqualified. Skaters can be disqualified for cutting the lines or leaving the inner curve.Ĭutting the lines – When entering the curves, in the curve and coming out of the curve, a skater is forbidden to cross the inner line of the curve, as defined by movable blocks, for the purpose of shortening the distance. The exception to the crossover requirement is the first lap of the 1000m and 1500m events. The skater leaving the inner lane is considered responsible for collisions, unless the other skater acts in an obstructive way. The lane-change takes place when a skater arrives at the crossing straight (the back straight opposite the finish area) and the right of way is given to the skater switching from the outer to the inner lane. Skaters are required to change lanes once during each lap because the inner lane of the speed skating oval covers a shorter distance than the outer lane. There shall be a distinct interval (about 1 to 1½ seconds) between when the skaters have taken their starting positions and the firing of the shot. In addition, the skaters may not touch the starting line or be in contact with the ice beyond the starting line with any parts of their body or equipment. Competitors must keep their skates entirely behind the starting line and may not have their skates on or over the starting line. The starter will then call “ready,” whereupon the skaters take their starting position and keep this position until the starting shot is fired. ![]() Next, the starter orders the skaters to the start line, where the skaters take a stable position. Once at the starting area, skaters place themselves at the pre-start line, which is two meters (6.56 feet) behind the start line. Failure to appear promptly at the start is equivalent to withdrawal from the distance. ![]() Prior to each start, the names of the skaters about to compete are clearly announced at the starting point itself and in the dressing area.
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