Adam, Of course you know I support the ISSA rules. I think they are fair- relatively simple to follow and prmote the growth of slalom.
Now from a personal standpoint I would rather see racing made even simpler- do away with the ramps- allow a faster entry and push start- steepen the grade of the hill etc.... but that would not be ISSA slalom- it would be MY way of slalom- not the agreed upon format by so many people from so many different slalom scenes.
After traveling to several different slalom scenes- it becomes apparent that not everyone has the same type of terrain to train upon.
For instance. Some scenes have trouble finding long hills to train on- some that come to mind are Latvia, Holland, Florida, huge tracts of the Midwestern USA, etc.
Some scenes have trouble finding a really good surface. California pavement on average has been coarser than others. Pavement greades vary from area to area.
The ISSA rules allow for slalomers from all different areas to show the skills they have developed and still compete on a pretty level paying field. For instance the UK has historically run very tight cone distances- which to the Californians would be off putting. The Californians have run slalom with wider gates on larger hills- the speeds of which can be offputting to some from the UK. By specifying the cone distances and the lengths of the courses in the ISSA rules it makes it possible for people to be encouraged to compete from anywhere. For instance from Florida It might be hard to find a hill that has a length of sustained pitch for more than 5 GS Gates at speed. However if you train for those 5 gates over and over again and work on your pump you may be able to have enough endurance and sprinting power to be competitive on a course of say 40 cones.
Training for a 70 cone high speed GS course in Florida would be extremely difficult if not impossible.
Also holding a competition in Florida for a 70 cone GS would likely not be possible. But it would likely be possible to hold a contest in Florida for a high speed GS with say 20-30 cones.
The current ISSA standard for GS is 20-40 cones. That allows for a greater competitior base.
Of course peole can set what ever they like in a competition. But to have a fair standard it would be important that the standard be "adoptable" by many- not just a few.
The ISSA rules make slalom competitoin accessible for the many- not the few. It may not be my personal style of slalom, but I stand behind it as sound and fair. If you want a contest to be an ISSA contest simply follwo the ISSA rules for a contest. Sine the format is simple to train for I hope contest promoters will experience a greater amount of entrants.
Does that mean I would never endorse an event that had Unlimited push- technical slalom on steep hill with perfect surface :0! No, but I would hope that the promoter of the event would have some ISSA standard disciplines within the same contest.
I'm all for keeping slalom interesting and trying to introduce fun formats- even ones that I don't particularly enjoy like slower super offset slalom (now if this were part of a contest with some standard ISSA events, I would consider it a more fun thing to run- when it is the only thing to run I feel limited). Even Non ISSA events I might think I would not find at all interesting like an uphill slalom- or relay slalom- become much more fun when supported by other ISSA events.
My hope is that someday some kid will come out of a place we have never heard of- one withoout a known skate scene, and just blow us all away - having only practiced according to the ISSA rules.
ISSA in the Eastern USA?
Moderators: Jonathan Harms, Ron Barbagallo, Maria Carrasco, Russel Cantor, Lynn Kramer, Brian Parsons
-
Adam Trahan
- Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Posts: 795
- Joined: Tue Apr 02, 2002 2:00 am
Something to think about for the future in regards to organization of racing in the Eastern USA.
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The FCR Series is an excellent racing opportunity that provides amature and professional slalom skateboarders the chance to compete in a elevated standard. Personally, I have now competed in one of these events as a racer and my experience was no less than excellent. However, I live in the Western United States of America and all races to date have been in the West. For those slalom skateboard racers in Central and Eastern United States, your choices have been to either travel to the FCR Series Races or attend a local race or race series.
The Grass Roots Slalom Skateboarding approach to racing is a great way to organize and promote slalom skateboarding. Using a Grass Roots approach following the ISSA rulebook will help you organize and define your contest. Performance increases due to competition are often the motivation for organizing such events. Slalom Skateboard gatherings are not only centered on racing but provide a social interaction of like-minded enthusiasts.
In the spirit of competition and having a fair set of rules or having a standard to work from, I would like to suggest that you adopt the rules of the International Skateboard Slalom Association (ISSA) when organizing a race or throwing an impromptu event. At a minimum, have a copy of the ISSA rulebook at your disposal.
If you don't know about the ISSA, try an Internet search http://www.yahoo.com using the key words "International Skateboard Slalom Association" and you will find the information that I am referring to in many slalom skateboarding web sites. Their web address is: http://www.pcpal.se/issa/ it is not a difficult set of rules to understand, quite the contrary, they are minimal and should cover the events that you are interested in offering. The rules can also be adapted to special circumstances.
John Gilmour in the North East USA is a representative of the ISSA and can help you with ideas for organizing your event using the ISSA rulebook. Dan Gessmer is the ISSA representative in Colorado and can help you in organizing an ISSA event.
The ISSA has an impressive history of International Skateboard Slalom Competition and this web site is an extension of that history. Its aim is to organize and promote Slalom Skateboarding.
The following are the official rules from the ISSA rulebook. Follow the rules as closely as you. If a particular rule is not possible to follow, use your best judgment.
General rules
These rules have been agreed by national associations or skaters representing the countries of the International Skateboard Slalom Association: Czech Republic, England, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland and USA.
These rules shall be followed by the organizers of ISSA events and by the participants in these competitions. A skater that does not follow these rules might be disqualified from further competition during this event.
It is the responsibility of the organizer to provide copies of these rules to all participating countries upon request. At least one copy should always be kept in the secretary office to allow ISSA country coordinators, and participants to check the rules.
In these rules every should is a must.
1. APPLICATION TO HOLD ISSA EVENT
At least 10 months prior to the planned competition the organizer should send the application for a contest to the ISSA president and vice president.
This application should contain: Name of contest, place, suggested date, specification of events and other facts around the contest which could be relevant at that time.
After the organizer has received a written confirmation from the ISSA president or vice president a first announcement can be made, see invitation below.
2. INVITATIONS
Invitation should be sent to all ISSA country coordinators (chief and assistant), and could also be sent directly to all ISSA members.
To provide sufficient information to the participants and to have enough time for preparing travelling and visas the following schedule should be used:
1st announcement 9 months before
This announcement should contain: Name of contest, place, date, specification of events, the ISSA logo and a request to former Eastern block country coordinators (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia and other states of ex USSR), to apply for personal invitations. The invitation could also contain other facts around the contest which could be relevant at that time.
This invitation serves the purpose of allowing the skater to select among the contests to be held in the coming season, and allow for publication of contest schedules in magazines.
2nd announcement 6 months before
This announcement should contain: Name of contest, place, date, specification of events, the ISSA logo, request to former Eastern block country coordinators to apply for personal invitations. The invitation could also contain other facts around the contest which could be relevant at that time.
3rd announcement 3 months before
This announcement should contain: Name of contest, date, specification of events, complete information on location, travelling information by car, train/bus and plane, the ISSA logo, entry fee, prize money (if any), type of surface, accomodations provided and cost of, complete addresses and phone/fax number to at least 2 hotels as an alternative. For former Eastern block countries this invitation should be addressed personally to each of the slalomers that have asked for it as well as to all ISSA coordinators. For them the invitation should state a contest period of 2 days before and 2 days after the contest plus the actual contest days, to allow for travelling.
3. CANCELLATION OF COMPETITION
Competitions should only in rare cases be cancelled after a 1st announcement has been sent out. If the contest has to be cancelled, or date or any other information previously announced, has to be changed, information has to be sent to all ISSA country coordinators, all slalomers already registered, as well as information to the ISSA president and vice president on who has received information about change or cancellation. If these requirements are not fulfilled the ISSA has the right to charge the organizer for the costs of informing it's members about the cancellation.
4. EVENTS
To comply with ISSA rules the three regular events; straight parallel-, special- and giant slalom should be held, any exception to this rule has to be announced as early as possible.
5. FUN EVENTS
In case the organizer wishes to organize further disciplines, called fun events, such as "English slalom" (1.20m or shorter), uphill slalom, double special, figure slalom or any other type of slalom, he is encouraged to do so and expected to follow as close as possible the rules for the ordinary slalom events. These fun events will not be taken into account for the overall points for ISSA yearly results.
6. OFFICIAL COMPETITIONS
World Championships are normally held every second year 1991, 1993, 1995 etc.
European Championships are normally held every year, and if possible it should not be held two consecutive years in the same country. The European Championships are considered "open" to participation to skaters from outside of Europe, however the title of European Champion can only be given to a resident of one of the European countries.
The organizers of European and World Championships are normally selected one year before the competition.
The ISSA reserves the rights to refuse the use of competition names including the words World and European, if there is a risk of confusion with the European and World Championships.
7. PRO/AM
A PRO/AM separation of skaters is not necessary, and not recommended.
8. JUNIOR'S CLASS
It is up to the organizer to hold also a junior class. Juniors could then compete in a separate course, or in the same as the regular group. Juniors may choose to compete also or only in the senior/regular class.
9. WOMEN'S CLASS
It is recommended to hold a separate women's class. However if there are fewer than 5 girls they could start together with the men, but the results should be presented separately and prizes should be given. Women may choose to compete also or only in the senior/regular class.
10. ENTRY FEE
The entry fee should be announced in the 3rd announcement, together with the registration deadline date. If the organizers chooses to allow registration also at the day of the competition he is allowed to do so and recommended to take a fee which is maximum 50% higher than the regular entry fee. The entry fee should include participation in all slalom disciplines.
Former Eastern block countries should be allowed to enter free of charge or to pay a maximum entry fee of 50% of the regular entry fee.
If asked for, the organizer should provide receipts for paid entry fees. A stamp should be available to stamp the receipts.
11. USE OF ISSA LOGO AND NAME
ISSA reserves all rights to allow or prohibit organizer from using the ISSA logo or name in connection with a competition.
If ISSA has approved the competition the organizer may use the ISSA name and logo, on invitations, posters, and all other relevant papers and posters produced in connection with the event.
Requirements:
- A jury committee should be assigned with representatives from ISSA.
- ISSA rules must be followed completely, with the only exception that 2 out of the 3 events could be held rather than all three.
- The ISSA logo must be on the invitation.
- Results must be delivered to each participant, or sent after the contest.
- Results must be sent to Slalom! magazine specifying time of each run, number of cones hit, and total time. The results must include all qualifying and final runs.
12. ISSA MEETING
The organizer should prepare a meeting room in case ISSA needs to hold a meeting for the day before the first competition day and on the night of the first competition day. The meeting room should be reserved between 20.00 and 23.00 both days if possible. The meeting on the day before the contest should be used also by the organizer to present any last minute changes and to provide a possibility for country coordinators to ask the organizer questions concerning the upcoming event. There should be only one coordinator representing each country at ISSA meetings. Please avoid translators if possible. The meeting will be held in English.
13. MAIN INFORMATION BOARD
A main information board should be displayed at a convenient place within the competition area to post starting lists, results and all other information important to the participants of the competition. This board should have a title posted above the information. The title should read "Main information board". If more than one information board exists, one should have the title "Main information board". The other boards should only say "Information".
14. RAIN
In case of rain or other weather conditions which will make it impossible to continue the competition, it should be postponed until later on the same day, or to the following day. If it is possible to keep the position of the timing system and the starting ramp, the contest can continue from where it was stopped, otherwise it should be restarted. If it is not possible to complete the competition during the announced days of this event, the results from the first run (if completed) or from the qualification (if completed) should be used. If there is no such result the results will be cancelled.
15. FIRST AID
First aid equipment and medical personel, should be available at the site of competition.
16. Skaters ID
To identify participants, organizers and invited guests it is recommended to issue ID cards to the following categories:
- Skaters
- Guests (sponsors and others invited)
- VIP (ISSA country representatives and important guests)
- Organizers
- Press
This ID card should contain the following information:
- Type of card
- Name of contest
- Date of validity
- Name of bearer
- Nationality
17. INSURANCE
A membership of ISSA and participation in ISSA events does not include any insurance. ISSA recommends however that the organizer signs an insurance for all participants and spectators of the event. Each skater is still responsible for his own insurance coverage. The ISSA can not be held responsible for any accident.
18. JURY COMMITTEE
A jury committee should be set up in order to take necessary decisions on protests, temporary changes of rules etc.
This committee should consist of the following members:
- ISSA president If not present any other ISSA country coordinator
- ISSA vice president If not present any other ISSA country coordinator
- ISSA chief judge If not present any other ISSA country coordinator
- Organizer representative
- Chief referee of the organizers.
This committee and their names should be announced the day before the contest and posted on the main information board.
19. STARTING NUMBERS
Starting numbers should be provided by the organizers and must be worn by the participants. The number itself should be 10 cm high.
20. STARTING ORDER
The starting order of the skaters for all disciplines should be decided by lottery. Starting numbers should then be given out to indicate the starting order. A starting list, with starting order, starting number, name and nationality, should be posted on the main information board as well as in connection to the starting ramp before the actual event starts.
21. CONES
The cones used for slalom should have a base diameter of approximately 140 mm, approximately 250 mm high and be made of plastic. If the wind is strong enough to move the cones, two cones could be placed on top of each other, however a hit and displaced pair of cones should then be counted as one.
22. COURSE SETTING
The courses for special and straight parallel slalom should be set up by representatives from three countries selected by a lottery draw. This selection and the names of the representatives selected and their countries should be announced on the main information board the day before the contest.
23. CONE MARSHALS
There should be one cone marshals for every 15 cones, but a cone marshals area should be no more than 30 m in length. After each run he shall indicate to the main judge the number of cones hit in his part of the course. This is preferably done with signs prepared in advance with numbers from 0-10. The 0 sign should be used to indicate that no cones were hit, and to ensure that the cone marshals are paying attention. A sign indicating DQ should also be available. This sign could also be red with no text on it.
24. SAFETY EQUIPMENT
The starter should check that each participant has approved safety equipment as described for each individual event.
25. RETRY
If a skaters run is interfered with because of people or animals on the course, or if one or more cones was displaced before starting the run, he should be granted a second try. This is normally done after all the other slalomers have completed their runs.
26. OFFICIAL RESULTS
The organizer should provide complete results including times, and number of hit cones for every run in the competition and give at least one copy to each participating nation. The results for the combination of the three official disciplines should be printed with separate columns for each event, and a column for the total score. It is the responsibility of the organizer to send a copy of the results to the ISSA president and to Slalom! for publication.
27. ACCOMMODATION
It is recommended that the organizer provide accommodations free of charge to all participants and guests. If accommodations have to be paid for by former Eastern block countries they should not have to pay more than 50% of the regular price. The cost of accomodation should be stated in the 3rd announcement.
It is the responsibility of each person using the accomodations to keep it clean and to behave well. The place should be cleaned by the people using the accomodations at the day of their departure.
The organizer is recommended to keep the accomodation open at least 2 days before the contest and 1 day after the contest.
28. POINTS
Points given for overall results:
1. 25 points
2. 20
3. 17
4. 15
5. 13
6. 11
7. 10
8. 9
9. 8
10. 7
11. 6
12. 5
13. 4
14. 3
15. 2
16 - 1
DQ 1
Skaters from 16:th place and down will receive one point each for participation. Skaters disqualified also receive one point. If two slalomers gets the same place, and can not be separated by taking into account their second best runs, both get the points for that place, a shared first place will for example give both slalomers 25 points.
29. PROTESTS
If available an ISSA responsible or a person selected by ISSA should oversee the time keeping, to avoid discrepancies and to clarify protests.
Protests may be presented upon any decision. A written and signed protest must be given no later than 30 minutes after the cause of the protest. It is important that the protest is announced early enough not to disturb the continuation of the contest. The jury committee will decide upon each protest, as soon as possible. Their decision is final.
A fee of $20 should be paid with each protest. Former East block countries pay 50% of the fee.50% of the fee.
Straight parallel slalom
1. SLALOM COURSE
1.1 The course shall consist of a start, a timing line, a series of cones placed in a straight line, a finish line and a run out area. The run out area should be at least 20 m long, of good surface and be free of objects. Straight parallel slalom could be held on a flat surface, and if it is held downhill it should be no more than 5 degrees.
Two identical courses shall be set up, with at least 2.5 m separating the two courses.
1.2 A starting ramp is compulsory, and it shall have a height of at least 1.8 m and a maximum angle of 20 degrees.
2. CONES
2.1 The first cone shall be placed no closer than 4 meters from the starting ramp.
2.2 The cones shall have an approximate base diameter or 140 mm and shall stand within a circle drawn immediately around the cones.
2.3 Each course shall consist of a series of cones placed in a straight line. The distance between cones shall be 1.7 m (measured from center to center).
2.4 It is the duty of the cone marshalls to check that the cones are placed correctly after each run. If a cone was incorrectly placed before a run the skater may choose to take another run or to keep the time he/she received.
2.5 The number of cones should be exactly 36.
2.6 The finish line should be placed 0.5 meter after the last cone, thus creating a course of exactly 60 meters.
3. SLALOM RUN
3.1 The competitors should pass the first cone on the right side. The organizer is advised to indicate this with an arrow drawn on the ground as to which side should be used.
3.2 The Starter should check that both skaters are ready by asking first the left course and then the right course in the following manner. "Left ready?" "Right ready?". If both skaters are ready the start should be done within 15 seconds.
3.3 The start is indicated by a starter using the words THREE, TWO, ONE, GO! at intervals of approximately 1 second.
4. DISQUALIFICATION
4.1 A skater is disqualified in this run:
a) if he missing a cone
b) if he touches the ground with a foot between the start and the finish line.
c) if he does not pass the finish line
d) after he makes three false starts
A skater could also be disqualified from the race for anti-sporting behaviour.
4.2 If a skater is disqualified in one run he should still make his second run as the winner of the first run could still be disqualified and then each skater will have one run each and the best time shall count.
5. COMPETITION
5.1 Each skater will have two qualification runs. The best result out of these two runs shall count. If two skaters get the same time, the second best time will count. Qualification can be done in one course or preferrably with skaters two by two.
If 24 skaters or more have registered on time for the competition the 16 best skaters will meet in a head to head final, where they will meet as follows: 1-16, 8-9, 4-13, 5-12, 2-15, 7-10, 3-14, 6-11.
They will have two runs against each other, one in each course. The time of the two runs will be added together. When a skaters looses a heat (the combined time of two runs) he is out of the competition.
If less than 24 skaters have registered on time for the competition, The 8 best skaters will meet in a head to head final, where they will meet as follows: 1-8, 4-5, 3-6, 7-2. They will have two runs against each other, one in each course. The time of the two runs will be added together. When a skater loses a heat (the combined times of the two runs) he is out of the competition.
6. TIMING
6.1 Electronic timing equipment, accurate to 100’s of a second shall be used.
7. CONE DISPLACEMENTS
7.1 The time penalty for each cone displaced shall be 0,1 second.
7.2 A cone displacement is defined when the whole cone is outside the circle drawn around the base of the cone or when the cone falls over. A cone hit by another cone from the same course and is displaced as described above is also counted as displaced.
A cone hit and displaced by a cone from the other course should not be counted as displaced.
8. SAFETY GEAR
8.1 Helmet, Elbow pads, knee pads MUST be worn. A skater is not allowed to start if he does not have sufficient safety gear. Wristguards or gloves are recommended.
9. PRACTICE
9.1 The skater may have a chance to try the course, if it doesn’t interfere with the organizers preparations. The skater shall always have had a possibility to test the surface on which the slalom course is to be set.
Special slalom
1. SLALOM COURSE
1.1 The course shall consist of a start, a timing line, a flat or slightly downhill course with a series of cones, a finish line and a run out area. The run out area should be at least 20 m long, of good surface and be free of objects.
1.2 A starting ramp is compulsory, and it shall have a height of at least 1.80 m and a maximum angle of 20 degrees.
2. CONES
2.1 The first cone shall be placed no closer than 4 meters from the starting ramp.
2.2 The cones shall have an approximate base diameter of 140 mm and shall stand within a circle drawn immediately around the cones.
2.3 The course should be set by three skaters representing three nations selected with a lottery draw. The team captain of each of these countries decides who will set the course from their team.
2.4 The cones shall be placed in such a manner that a varied course is created. The distance between cones shall be 1.6 - 4 m (measured from center to center), the average cone distance should be approximately 2-2.5 m.
2.5 It is the duty of the cone marshalls to check, that the cones are placed correctly after each run. If a cone was incorrectly placed before a run the skater may choose to take another run or to keep the time he/she received.
2.6 Single cones should be used to indicate each turn.
2.7 The number of cones shall be between 30 and 60.
3. SLALOM RUN
3.1 The competitors should pass the first cone on the right side. The organizer is advised to indicate this with an arrow drawn on the ground.
4. DISQUALIFICATION
4.1 A skater is disqualified in this run:
a) if he misses a cone
b) if he touches the ground with a foot between the start and the finish line.
c) if he does not pass the finish line
A skater could also be disqualified from the race for anti-sporting behaviour.
5. COMPETITION
5.1 Each skater will have two runs. The best result out of these two runs shall count. If two skaters get the same time, the second best time for each skater will count.
6. TIMING
6.1 Electronic timing equipment, accurate to 100’s of a second shall be used.
7. CONE DISPLACEMENTS
7.1 The time penalty for each cone displaced shall be 0.1 second.
7.2 A cone displacement is defined when the whole cone is outside the circle drawn around the base of the cone or when the cone falls over. A cone hit and displaced, as defined above, by another cone shall also be counted as displaced.
8. SAFETY GEAR
8.1 Helmet, elbow pads and knee pads MUST be worn. A skater is not allowed to start if he does not have sufficient safety gear. Wristguards or gloves are recommended.
9. PRACTICE
9.1 The skater may have a chance to try the course, if it doesn’t interfere with the organizers preparations. The skater shall always have had a possibility to test the surface on which the slalom course is to be set.
Giant slalom
1. SLALOM COURSE
1.1 The course shall consist of a start, a timing line, a downhill course with a series of cones, a finish line and a run out area. The run out area should be at least 20 m long, of good surface and be free of objects.
1.2 A starting ramp is compulsory, and it shall have a height of at least 1.80 m and a maximum angle of 20 degrees.
2. CONES
2.1 The first cone shall be placed no closer than 4 meters from the starting ramp.
2.2 The cones shall have an approximate base diameter or 140 mm and shall stand within a circle drawn immediately around the cones.
2.3 The course should be set by three skaters representing three nations selected with a lottery draw. The team captain of each of these countries decides who will set the course from their team.
2.4 The cones shall be placed in such a manner that a varied course is created. The distance between cones shall be 2 - 10 m (measured from center to center), the average cone distance should be approximately 3-5 m.
2.5 It is the duty of the cone marshalls to check, that the cones are placed correctly after each run. If a cone was incorrectly placed before a run the skater may choose to take another run or to keep the time he/she received.
2.6 Single cones should be used to indicate each turn.
2.7 The number of cones shall be between 20 and 40.
3. SLALOM RUN
3.1 The competitors should pass the first cone on the right side. The organizer is advised to indicate this with an arrow drawn on the ground.
4. DISQUALIFICATION
4.1 A skater is disqualified in this run:
a) if he misses a cone
b) if he touches the ground with a foot between the start and the finish line.
c) if he does not pass the finish line
A skater can also be disqualified from the race for anti-sporting behaviour.
5. COMPETITION
5.1 Each skater will have two runs. The best result out of these two runs shall count. If two skaters get the same time, the second best time will count.
6. TIMING
6.1 Electronic timing equipment, accurate to 100’s of a second shall be used.
7. CONE DISPLACEMENTS
7.1 The time penalty for each cone displaced shall be 0.1 second.
7.2 A cone displacement is defined when the whole cone is outside the circle drawn around the base of the cone or when the cone falls over. A cone hit and displaced, as defined above, by another cone shall also be counted as displaced.
8. SAFETY GEAR
8.1 Helmet, elbow pads, knee pads MUST be worn. A skater is not allowed to start if he does not have sufficient safety gear. Wristguards or gloves are recommended.
9. PRACTICE
9.1 The skater may have a chance to try the course, if it doesn’t interfere with the organizers preparations. The skater shall always have had a possibility to test the surface on which the slalom course is to be set.
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Adam Trahan on 2003-04-05 21:31 ]</font>
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The FCR Series is an excellent racing opportunity that provides amature and professional slalom skateboarders the chance to compete in a elevated standard. Personally, I have now competed in one of these events as a racer and my experience was no less than excellent. However, I live in the Western United States of America and all races to date have been in the West. For those slalom skateboard racers in Central and Eastern United States, your choices have been to either travel to the FCR Series Races or attend a local race or race series.
The Grass Roots Slalom Skateboarding approach to racing is a great way to organize and promote slalom skateboarding. Using a Grass Roots approach following the ISSA rulebook will help you organize and define your contest. Performance increases due to competition are often the motivation for organizing such events. Slalom Skateboard gatherings are not only centered on racing but provide a social interaction of like-minded enthusiasts.
In the spirit of competition and having a fair set of rules or having a standard to work from, I would like to suggest that you adopt the rules of the International Skateboard Slalom Association (ISSA) when organizing a race or throwing an impromptu event. At a minimum, have a copy of the ISSA rulebook at your disposal.
If you don't know about the ISSA, try an Internet search http://www.yahoo.com using the key words "International Skateboard Slalom Association" and you will find the information that I am referring to in many slalom skateboarding web sites. Their web address is: http://www.pcpal.se/issa/ it is not a difficult set of rules to understand, quite the contrary, they are minimal and should cover the events that you are interested in offering. The rules can also be adapted to special circumstances.
John Gilmour in the North East USA is a representative of the ISSA and can help you with ideas for organizing your event using the ISSA rulebook. Dan Gessmer is the ISSA representative in Colorado and can help you in organizing an ISSA event.
The ISSA has an impressive history of International Skateboard Slalom Competition and this web site is an extension of that history. Its aim is to organize and promote Slalom Skateboarding.
The following are the official rules from the ISSA rulebook. Follow the rules as closely as you. If a particular rule is not possible to follow, use your best judgment.
General rules
These rules have been agreed by national associations or skaters representing the countries of the International Skateboard Slalom Association: Czech Republic, England, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland and USA.
These rules shall be followed by the organizers of ISSA events and by the participants in these competitions. A skater that does not follow these rules might be disqualified from further competition during this event.
It is the responsibility of the organizer to provide copies of these rules to all participating countries upon request. At least one copy should always be kept in the secretary office to allow ISSA country coordinators, and participants to check the rules.
In these rules every should is a must.
1. APPLICATION TO HOLD ISSA EVENT
At least 10 months prior to the planned competition the organizer should send the application for a contest to the ISSA president and vice president.
This application should contain: Name of contest, place, suggested date, specification of events and other facts around the contest which could be relevant at that time.
After the organizer has received a written confirmation from the ISSA president or vice president a first announcement can be made, see invitation below.
2. INVITATIONS
Invitation should be sent to all ISSA country coordinators (chief and assistant), and could also be sent directly to all ISSA members.
To provide sufficient information to the participants and to have enough time for preparing travelling and visas the following schedule should be used:
1st announcement 9 months before
This announcement should contain: Name of contest, place, date, specification of events, the ISSA logo and a request to former Eastern block country coordinators (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia and other states of ex USSR), to apply for personal invitations. The invitation could also contain other facts around the contest which could be relevant at that time.
This invitation serves the purpose of allowing the skater to select among the contests to be held in the coming season, and allow for publication of contest schedules in magazines.
2nd announcement 6 months before
This announcement should contain: Name of contest, place, date, specification of events, the ISSA logo, request to former Eastern block country coordinators to apply for personal invitations. The invitation could also contain other facts around the contest which could be relevant at that time.
3rd announcement 3 months before
This announcement should contain: Name of contest, date, specification of events, complete information on location, travelling information by car, train/bus and plane, the ISSA logo, entry fee, prize money (if any), type of surface, accomodations provided and cost of, complete addresses and phone/fax number to at least 2 hotels as an alternative. For former Eastern block countries this invitation should be addressed personally to each of the slalomers that have asked for it as well as to all ISSA coordinators. For them the invitation should state a contest period of 2 days before and 2 days after the contest plus the actual contest days, to allow for travelling.
3. CANCELLATION OF COMPETITION
Competitions should only in rare cases be cancelled after a 1st announcement has been sent out. If the contest has to be cancelled, or date or any other information previously announced, has to be changed, information has to be sent to all ISSA country coordinators, all slalomers already registered, as well as information to the ISSA president and vice president on who has received information about change or cancellation. If these requirements are not fulfilled the ISSA has the right to charge the organizer for the costs of informing it's members about the cancellation.
4. EVENTS
To comply with ISSA rules the three regular events; straight parallel-, special- and giant slalom should be held, any exception to this rule has to be announced as early as possible.
5. FUN EVENTS
In case the organizer wishes to organize further disciplines, called fun events, such as "English slalom" (1.20m or shorter), uphill slalom, double special, figure slalom or any other type of slalom, he is encouraged to do so and expected to follow as close as possible the rules for the ordinary slalom events. These fun events will not be taken into account for the overall points for ISSA yearly results.
6. OFFICIAL COMPETITIONS
World Championships are normally held every second year 1991, 1993, 1995 etc.
European Championships are normally held every year, and if possible it should not be held two consecutive years in the same country. The European Championships are considered "open" to participation to skaters from outside of Europe, however the title of European Champion can only be given to a resident of one of the European countries.
The organizers of European and World Championships are normally selected one year before the competition.
The ISSA reserves the rights to refuse the use of competition names including the words World and European, if there is a risk of confusion with the European and World Championships.
7. PRO/AM
A PRO/AM separation of skaters is not necessary, and not recommended.
8. JUNIOR'S CLASS
It is up to the organizer to hold also a junior class. Juniors could then compete in a separate course, or in the same as the regular group. Juniors may choose to compete also or only in the senior/regular class.
9. WOMEN'S CLASS
It is recommended to hold a separate women's class. However if there are fewer than 5 girls they could start together with the men, but the results should be presented separately and prizes should be given. Women may choose to compete also or only in the senior/regular class.
10. ENTRY FEE
The entry fee should be announced in the 3rd announcement, together with the registration deadline date. If the organizers chooses to allow registration also at the day of the competition he is allowed to do so and recommended to take a fee which is maximum 50% higher than the regular entry fee. The entry fee should include participation in all slalom disciplines.
Former Eastern block countries should be allowed to enter free of charge or to pay a maximum entry fee of 50% of the regular entry fee.
If asked for, the organizer should provide receipts for paid entry fees. A stamp should be available to stamp the receipts.
11. USE OF ISSA LOGO AND NAME
ISSA reserves all rights to allow or prohibit organizer from using the ISSA logo or name in connection with a competition.
If ISSA has approved the competition the organizer may use the ISSA name and logo, on invitations, posters, and all other relevant papers and posters produced in connection with the event.
Requirements:
- A jury committee should be assigned with representatives from ISSA.
- ISSA rules must be followed completely, with the only exception that 2 out of the 3 events could be held rather than all three.
- The ISSA logo must be on the invitation.
- Results must be delivered to each participant, or sent after the contest.
- Results must be sent to Slalom! magazine specifying time of each run, number of cones hit, and total time. The results must include all qualifying and final runs.
12. ISSA MEETING
The organizer should prepare a meeting room in case ISSA needs to hold a meeting for the day before the first competition day and on the night of the first competition day. The meeting room should be reserved between 20.00 and 23.00 both days if possible. The meeting on the day before the contest should be used also by the organizer to present any last minute changes and to provide a possibility for country coordinators to ask the organizer questions concerning the upcoming event. There should be only one coordinator representing each country at ISSA meetings. Please avoid translators if possible. The meeting will be held in English.
13. MAIN INFORMATION BOARD
A main information board should be displayed at a convenient place within the competition area to post starting lists, results and all other information important to the participants of the competition. This board should have a title posted above the information. The title should read "Main information board". If more than one information board exists, one should have the title "Main information board". The other boards should only say "Information".
14. RAIN
In case of rain or other weather conditions which will make it impossible to continue the competition, it should be postponed until later on the same day, or to the following day. If it is possible to keep the position of the timing system and the starting ramp, the contest can continue from where it was stopped, otherwise it should be restarted. If it is not possible to complete the competition during the announced days of this event, the results from the first run (if completed) or from the qualification (if completed) should be used. If there is no such result the results will be cancelled.
15. FIRST AID
First aid equipment and medical personel, should be available at the site of competition.
16. Skaters ID
To identify participants, organizers and invited guests it is recommended to issue ID cards to the following categories:
- Skaters
- Guests (sponsors and others invited)
- VIP (ISSA country representatives and important guests)
- Organizers
- Press
This ID card should contain the following information:
- Type of card
- Name of contest
- Date of validity
- Name of bearer
- Nationality
17. INSURANCE
A membership of ISSA and participation in ISSA events does not include any insurance. ISSA recommends however that the organizer signs an insurance for all participants and spectators of the event. Each skater is still responsible for his own insurance coverage. The ISSA can not be held responsible for any accident.
18. JURY COMMITTEE
A jury committee should be set up in order to take necessary decisions on protests, temporary changes of rules etc.
This committee should consist of the following members:
- ISSA president If not present any other ISSA country coordinator
- ISSA vice president If not present any other ISSA country coordinator
- ISSA chief judge If not present any other ISSA country coordinator
- Organizer representative
- Chief referee of the organizers.
This committee and their names should be announced the day before the contest and posted on the main information board.
19. STARTING NUMBERS
Starting numbers should be provided by the organizers and must be worn by the participants. The number itself should be 10 cm high.
20. STARTING ORDER
The starting order of the skaters for all disciplines should be decided by lottery. Starting numbers should then be given out to indicate the starting order. A starting list, with starting order, starting number, name and nationality, should be posted on the main information board as well as in connection to the starting ramp before the actual event starts.
21. CONES
The cones used for slalom should have a base diameter of approximately 140 mm, approximately 250 mm high and be made of plastic. If the wind is strong enough to move the cones, two cones could be placed on top of each other, however a hit and displaced pair of cones should then be counted as one.
22. COURSE SETTING
The courses for special and straight parallel slalom should be set up by representatives from three countries selected by a lottery draw. This selection and the names of the representatives selected and their countries should be announced on the main information board the day before the contest.
23. CONE MARSHALS
There should be one cone marshals for every 15 cones, but a cone marshals area should be no more than 30 m in length. After each run he shall indicate to the main judge the number of cones hit in his part of the course. This is preferably done with signs prepared in advance with numbers from 0-10. The 0 sign should be used to indicate that no cones were hit, and to ensure that the cone marshals are paying attention. A sign indicating DQ should also be available. This sign could also be red with no text on it.
24. SAFETY EQUIPMENT
The starter should check that each participant has approved safety equipment as described for each individual event.
25. RETRY
If a skaters run is interfered with because of people or animals on the course, or if one or more cones was displaced before starting the run, he should be granted a second try. This is normally done after all the other slalomers have completed their runs.
26. OFFICIAL RESULTS
The organizer should provide complete results including times, and number of hit cones for every run in the competition and give at least one copy to each participating nation. The results for the combination of the three official disciplines should be printed with separate columns for each event, and a column for the total score. It is the responsibility of the organizer to send a copy of the results to the ISSA president and to Slalom! for publication.
27. ACCOMMODATION
It is recommended that the organizer provide accommodations free of charge to all participants and guests. If accommodations have to be paid for by former Eastern block countries they should not have to pay more than 50% of the regular price. The cost of accomodation should be stated in the 3rd announcement.
It is the responsibility of each person using the accomodations to keep it clean and to behave well. The place should be cleaned by the people using the accomodations at the day of their departure.
The organizer is recommended to keep the accomodation open at least 2 days before the contest and 1 day after the contest.
28. POINTS
Points given for overall results:
1. 25 points
2. 20
3. 17
4. 15
5. 13
6. 11
7. 10
8. 9
9. 8
10. 7
11. 6
12. 5
13. 4
14. 3
15. 2
16 - 1
DQ 1
Skaters from 16:th place and down will receive one point each for participation. Skaters disqualified also receive one point. If two slalomers gets the same place, and can not be separated by taking into account their second best runs, both get the points for that place, a shared first place will for example give both slalomers 25 points.
29. PROTESTS
If available an ISSA responsible or a person selected by ISSA should oversee the time keeping, to avoid discrepancies and to clarify protests.
Protests may be presented upon any decision. A written and signed protest must be given no later than 30 minutes after the cause of the protest. It is important that the protest is announced early enough not to disturb the continuation of the contest. The jury committee will decide upon each protest, as soon as possible. Their decision is final.
A fee of $20 should be paid with each protest. Former East block countries pay 50% of the fee.50% of the fee.
Straight parallel slalom
1. SLALOM COURSE
1.1 The course shall consist of a start, a timing line, a series of cones placed in a straight line, a finish line and a run out area. The run out area should be at least 20 m long, of good surface and be free of objects. Straight parallel slalom could be held on a flat surface, and if it is held downhill it should be no more than 5 degrees.
Two identical courses shall be set up, with at least 2.5 m separating the two courses.
1.2 A starting ramp is compulsory, and it shall have a height of at least 1.8 m and a maximum angle of 20 degrees.
2. CONES
2.1 The first cone shall be placed no closer than 4 meters from the starting ramp.
2.2 The cones shall have an approximate base diameter or 140 mm and shall stand within a circle drawn immediately around the cones.
2.3 Each course shall consist of a series of cones placed in a straight line. The distance between cones shall be 1.7 m (measured from center to center).
2.4 It is the duty of the cone marshalls to check that the cones are placed correctly after each run. If a cone was incorrectly placed before a run the skater may choose to take another run or to keep the time he/she received.
2.5 The number of cones should be exactly 36.
2.6 The finish line should be placed 0.5 meter after the last cone, thus creating a course of exactly 60 meters.
3. SLALOM RUN
3.1 The competitors should pass the first cone on the right side. The organizer is advised to indicate this with an arrow drawn on the ground as to which side should be used.
3.2 The Starter should check that both skaters are ready by asking first the left course and then the right course in the following manner. "Left ready?" "Right ready?". If both skaters are ready the start should be done within 15 seconds.
3.3 The start is indicated by a starter using the words THREE, TWO, ONE, GO! at intervals of approximately 1 second.
4. DISQUALIFICATION
4.1 A skater is disqualified in this run:
a) if he missing a cone
b) if he touches the ground with a foot between the start and the finish line.
c) if he does not pass the finish line
d) after he makes three false starts
A skater could also be disqualified from the race for anti-sporting behaviour.
4.2 If a skater is disqualified in one run he should still make his second run as the winner of the first run could still be disqualified and then each skater will have one run each and the best time shall count.
5. COMPETITION
5.1 Each skater will have two qualification runs. The best result out of these two runs shall count. If two skaters get the same time, the second best time will count. Qualification can be done in one course or preferrably with skaters two by two.
If 24 skaters or more have registered on time for the competition the 16 best skaters will meet in a head to head final, where they will meet as follows: 1-16, 8-9, 4-13, 5-12, 2-15, 7-10, 3-14, 6-11.
They will have two runs against each other, one in each course. The time of the two runs will be added together. When a skaters looses a heat (the combined time of two runs) he is out of the competition.
If less than 24 skaters have registered on time for the competition, The 8 best skaters will meet in a head to head final, where they will meet as follows: 1-8, 4-5, 3-6, 7-2. They will have two runs against each other, one in each course. The time of the two runs will be added together. When a skater loses a heat (the combined times of the two runs) he is out of the competition.
6. TIMING
6.1 Electronic timing equipment, accurate to 100’s of a second shall be used.
7. CONE DISPLACEMENTS
7.1 The time penalty for each cone displaced shall be 0,1 second.
7.2 A cone displacement is defined when the whole cone is outside the circle drawn around the base of the cone or when the cone falls over. A cone hit by another cone from the same course and is displaced as described above is also counted as displaced.
A cone hit and displaced by a cone from the other course should not be counted as displaced.
8. SAFETY GEAR
8.1 Helmet, Elbow pads, knee pads MUST be worn. A skater is not allowed to start if he does not have sufficient safety gear. Wristguards or gloves are recommended.
9. PRACTICE
9.1 The skater may have a chance to try the course, if it doesn’t interfere with the organizers preparations. The skater shall always have had a possibility to test the surface on which the slalom course is to be set.
Special slalom
1. SLALOM COURSE
1.1 The course shall consist of a start, a timing line, a flat or slightly downhill course with a series of cones, a finish line and a run out area. The run out area should be at least 20 m long, of good surface and be free of objects.
1.2 A starting ramp is compulsory, and it shall have a height of at least 1.80 m and a maximum angle of 20 degrees.
2. CONES
2.1 The first cone shall be placed no closer than 4 meters from the starting ramp.
2.2 The cones shall have an approximate base diameter of 140 mm and shall stand within a circle drawn immediately around the cones.
2.3 The course should be set by three skaters representing three nations selected with a lottery draw. The team captain of each of these countries decides who will set the course from their team.
2.4 The cones shall be placed in such a manner that a varied course is created. The distance between cones shall be 1.6 - 4 m (measured from center to center), the average cone distance should be approximately 2-2.5 m.
2.5 It is the duty of the cone marshalls to check, that the cones are placed correctly after each run. If a cone was incorrectly placed before a run the skater may choose to take another run or to keep the time he/she received.
2.6 Single cones should be used to indicate each turn.
2.7 The number of cones shall be between 30 and 60.
3. SLALOM RUN
3.1 The competitors should pass the first cone on the right side. The organizer is advised to indicate this with an arrow drawn on the ground.
4. DISQUALIFICATION
4.1 A skater is disqualified in this run:
a) if he misses a cone
b) if he touches the ground with a foot between the start and the finish line.
c) if he does not pass the finish line
A skater could also be disqualified from the race for anti-sporting behaviour.
5. COMPETITION
5.1 Each skater will have two runs. The best result out of these two runs shall count. If two skaters get the same time, the second best time for each skater will count.
6. TIMING
6.1 Electronic timing equipment, accurate to 100’s of a second shall be used.
7. CONE DISPLACEMENTS
7.1 The time penalty for each cone displaced shall be 0.1 second.
7.2 A cone displacement is defined when the whole cone is outside the circle drawn around the base of the cone or when the cone falls over. A cone hit and displaced, as defined above, by another cone shall also be counted as displaced.
8. SAFETY GEAR
8.1 Helmet, elbow pads and knee pads MUST be worn. A skater is not allowed to start if he does not have sufficient safety gear. Wristguards or gloves are recommended.
9. PRACTICE
9.1 The skater may have a chance to try the course, if it doesn’t interfere with the organizers preparations. The skater shall always have had a possibility to test the surface on which the slalom course is to be set.
Giant slalom
1. SLALOM COURSE
1.1 The course shall consist of a start, a timing line, a downhill course with a series of cones, a finish line and a run out area. The run out area should be at least 20 m long, of good surface and be free of objects.
1.2 A starting ramp is compulsory, and it shall have a height of at least 1.80 m and a maximum angle of 20 degrees.
2. CONES
2.1 The first cone shall be placed no closer than 4 meters from the starting ramp.
2.2 The cones shall have an approximate base diameter or 140 mm and shall stand within a circle drawn immediately around the cones.
2.3 The course should be set by three skaters representing three nations selected with a lottery draw. The team captain of each of these countries decides who will set the course from their team.
2.4 The cones shall be placed in such a manner that a varied course is created. The distance between cones shall be 2 - 10 m (measured from center to center), the average cone distance should be approximately 3-5 m.
2.5 It is the duty of the cone marshalls to check, that the cones are placed correctly after each run. If a cone was incorrectly placed before a run the skater may choose to take another run or to keep the time he/she received.
2.6 Single cones should be used to indicate each turn.
2.7 The number of cones shall be between 20 and 40.
3. SLALOM RUN
3.1 The competitors should pass the first cone on the right side. The organizer is advised to indicate this with an arrow drawn on the ground.
4. DISQUALIFICATION
4.1 A skater is disqualified in this run:
a) if he misses a cone
b) if he touches the ground with a foot between the start and the finish line.
c) if he does not pass the finish line
A skater can also be disqualified from the race for anti-sporting behaviour.
5. COMPETITION
5.1 Each skater will have two runs. The best result out of these two runs shall count. If two skaters get the same time, the second best time will count.
6. TIMING
6.1 Electronic timing equipment, accurate to 100’s of a second shall be used.
7. CONE DISPLACEMENTS
7.1 The time penalty for each cone displaced shall be 0.1 second.
7.2 A cone displacement is defined when the whole cone is outside the circle drawn around the base of the cone or when the cone falls over. A cone hit and displaced, as defined above, by another cone shall also be counted as displaced.
8. SAFETY GEAR
8.1 Helmet, elbow pads, knee pads MUST be worn. A skater is not allowed to start if he does not have sufficient safety gear. Wristguards or gloves are recommended.
9. PRACTICE
9.1 The skater may have a chance to try the course, if it doesn’t interfere with the organizers preparations. The skater shall always have had a possibility to test the surface on which the slalom course is to be set.
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Adam Trahan on 2003-04-05 21:31 ]</font>