"sknyski" wrote in message
om...
As for obstacles to encourage classic technique, ridges were built along
the
course to make the trail too narrow for skating. We are still playing
that
game. At a recent FIS TD seminar we were encouraged to put V boards
along
the inside of curves to make the space between the set tracks and the
edge
of the course too narrow for skating.

You mean you can't skate around corners anymore in a classic race?

bt

Old Rule

"Classical technique includes the diagonal techniques, the double poling
techniques, herringbone techniques without a gliding phase, downhill
techniques and turning techniques. Single or double-skating is not allowed.
Turning techniques comprise steps and pushes in order to change direction."

New Rule

Same as above plus - "Where there is a set track, turning techniques with
pushing are NOT allowed. This will also apply to competitors skiing outside
the set track."

Prior to the rule change you could effectively get out of the track on a
curve and do one sided skate as long as the skating ski moved into a line
that was tangential to the curve with each stride. It was common in races
to see competitors get into the space between the set track and the edge of
the trail and do a series of step turns with push (looks like a one sided
skate to me).

From an officials standpoint this leads to a couple of considerations in
setting the course.

Do not set track on sharp downhill curves where step turn with push would be
the appropriate turning technique. This means raise the tracks just before
the curve starts and do not start them again until far enough past the curve
to allow the skiers to recover and align themselves with the tracks.

On curves where tracks are set it was suggested that an obstacle such as V
boards be placed a short distance to the inside of the set tracks. This
removes the temptation to try to do a step turn with push.

If will be very difficult for officials to determine whether or not there is
a "push" in a step turn. My understanding of physics is that to turn an
object that is moving in a straight line requires the application of a force
from one side. Physically, how could you turn if you did not push at all?
The easiest solution is to avoid situations where you have to make the call.
Another questionable situation would occur where tracks were set but skiers
doing snow plough turns have partially or completely wiped them out. A
skier in the early stages of a race might get called for skating where a
skier in the later part of the competition could get away with it.

Scott