How to Calculate Points in Speed Skating

The points system in speed skating vexes first time skaters and fans alike during races. International and Olympic rules vary depending on the length of the race as well as the type of speed skating track used. You must know how to calculate points in speed skating to spur your team's competitive spirit during practice. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Calculator
• Stop watch

Calculate Points in Speed Skating

1. Use the Samalog point system for long track speed skating races. You can calculate points in the Samalog system by taking the racer's time and divide it by a preset number. For example, the 1,500 meter race requires the division of the total time by 3.
2. View your 500 meter time on its own in order to adhere to the Samalog point system. In order to calculate your time in the 500 meter, you merely need to calculate your two runs together and compare with fellow skaters.
3. Review the finishing order of short track speed skating events to determine the number of points assessed. In short track speed skating, the first four skaters in each race are assigned a point value. The points range from 5 points for the winner to 1 point for the fourth place finisher.
4. Separate points earned during qualifying events and points accumulated during the final to determine the winner in short track skating. Points gained through all events before the final are called performance points, while points in the championship are called final points. Final points take precedent over performance points and skaters who qualify without any performance points can still win a final race.
5. Track the finishing time of fallen skaters according to different rules from regular skaters. Skaters who fall and slide across the finish line are timed based on the first contact of their skate with the line. These skaters do not need to finish in their lane in order to complete a race legitimately.
6. Use a stop watch to determine whether a venue's race clocks are calibrated correctly. While most events have the best digital clocks available, a clock that is a second off can mean the difference between your team winning or placing second. International and Olympic events allow formally lodged protests to be presented after the event's completion.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice with your teammates according to the speed skating points system applicable to your next competition. For example, you should switch practice points if your team is running a 3,000 meter instead of a 1,000 meter. You should calculate points in practice to determine the hierarchy of talent on your team.