Skijor USA - 3D Format

The 3D format provides for a uniform system which is self-sorting. Competitors do not need to “estimate” their skill level. Performance dictates which “D”, or Division, the finishing time falls within and appropriate points are then awarded, if earned. Individual races are allowed to run divisions outside of the 3D such as Novice/Beginner, Youth, Legend, Womens, Snowboard, etc., but these divisions will have their own registration fees, their own prize pots/awards and can have their own tracks.

The 3D is meant to be similar to the previous method of Open, Sport and Novice. Like the traditional format, the 3D system identifies separate competitive classes, maintains three levels of competition, but effectively places teams in the proper division according to their race results.

All competitors, regardless of ability, run on the same track. The three divisions are then determined by time brackets. With the 3D format, the OVERALL fastest time of the race is used to set the time brackets for the three divisions. Raw times will be used to place teams within divisions. Penalties will be added AFTER placement is established within a division. This will eliminate the possibility of a fast team with penalties displacing a slower team with a clean run in a lower division. Thus, clean runs are rewarded above penalized runs.

1st Division: These are the teams with the fastest times. Those teams with the cleanest runs will place at the top of the division.

2nd Division: These are teams who ran ONE AND ONE HALF (1.5) SECONDS or SLOWER than the OVERALL fastest time. Those teams with the cleanest runs will place at the top of the division.

3rd Division: These are teams who ran THREE (3) SECONDS or SLOWER than the OVERALL fastest time. Those teams with the cleanest runs will place at the top of the division.

Penalties

A minimum of a five (5) second penalty will be assessed per gate and /or jump missed. A two (2) second penalty will be assessed for each missed or dropped ring. Failure to cross the finish line on at least one ski, with rope in hand, will result in a disqualification. Both skis, must cross within the boundary of the finish/timing line. Thus, the 3D system places a premium on clean runs.