Virtual tests

[black]

Announced recently; https://www.iceskating.org.uk/virtual-tests

It's interesting, I have wondered whether things would go this way.
And to take it one step further, mark each element/dance/skill independently, do away with the levels since some skaters might struggle with one element and be held back when they could be progressing in other areas.

"Videos should be filmed from the judges’ perspective"
"The video must be filmed in landscape with the skater as the main focus of the video at all times."
"The skater must be in full focus at all times of the video in order for the judge to clearly see their whole body (including blades)."

Anybody else spotting an issue with this? ^^
Is it even possible when the skater passes by where the judge is sat?
(too close to frame)

[transmissionoftheflame]

Interesting.  Seems like a reasonable idea to me.  One thing I do wonder about is that you can do it multiple times and pick your best one - I guess it has to be like that but it does take away the element of being put under pressure and having to perform - but then that's only an issue if your ambition is to compete I think.


Are you tempted to take such a test?  I did L1 field moves (passed, just) what seems like a million years ago and hated it, didn't bother renewing my NISA membership.  No regrets there.

[black]

Skating for me is more about freedom, exercise, exploring, & enjoyment; long-term like. This doesn't need to be validated.

I'd rather spend my money on ice time, than get stressed out over some test, skating to other people's rules.

Fair play if some skaters want to pursue them though.

The other advantage with these virtual tests would be you could take as long as you wanted to warm-up on the ice <- nice.

[transmissionoftheflame]

I largely agree with you and good point about the warmup


I guess tests provide a focus for some which while not being an end in themselves help certain people to maximise their potential

[black]

Interesting as to why virtual tests are being trialed now. Previously/currently videoing tests was/is prohibited, reason being that if someone passed and someone didn't, the clips could be compared and possibly an issue raised. I suspect/guess that NISA/BIS are currently short on judges to cover tests across the country?

[transmissionoftheflame]

Could be
It does make sense though- the whole business is such a kerfuffle and inconvenience for all concerned-and an expense
You’d think more transparent judging would be considered a feature rather than a bug