In this article, we’ll introduce you to another discipline of Disc Dog – our focus will be on Parallel Time Trial. The most important thing in it is the time within which a dog catches a flying disc. What does this discipline look like, in what regard is it special and where can you compete in it? We have discussed all of these things with competitor Martinka Bolehovská.
What does the field for Parallel Time Trial look like? How big is it?
The field has a rectangle shape, 30x40 yards or approximately 27x36 metres and it is divided into two identical parts with a banner or a band. The barrier starts at the starting line and ends at the end of the field. The starting line and the end of the field need to be clearly marked. Only one main referee who is at the starting line assesses the competition. The referee needs to determine two helpers – they say if the disc was caught behind the line which is 20 yards from the starting line.
Are there teams or is it a discipline for individuals?
A competitor and his/her dog take part in the competition.
How important is time? How much time can a dog have to catch the disc?
Time is of utmost importance in this discipline. Every team, i.e. the competitor and his/her dog, has 60 seconds to catch the first disc. If it isn’t successful, it automatically means the time will be lengthened to 120 seconds and it means the end in the qualification. If the dog is able to catch the first disc within the time limit, the same time limit is used for the second disc. After the dog catches two discs and runs through the starting line, the time is stopped.
How many attempts does a dog have for catching the disc?
It differs and a specific number cannot be said. It depends on how many attempts they can do within the time limit.
Is it possible that two or more dogs compete at the same time or does throwing and catching always take place individually?
Every team has its own qualification. Sixteen teams with the fastest times get to elimination rounds. For next rounds, the teams are divided into pairs (no. 1 against no. 16, no. 2 against no. 15, etc.). Pairs compete at the same time, each of them on a different part of the field. The competitor that had the fastest time in the qualification picks the side. Time is not measured in these rounds. The team that successfully catches two 20-yard throws gets to the next round. Teams start according to the referee’s instructions. If any team enters the field of the second team (either a dog runs to the next field or a disc is thrown there), the team is disqualified. This repeats until the best four teams are left. Then, these four teams compete in the same way until the best two get to the finals and the other two teams compete to get the 3rd place.
Where in the Czech Republic do Time Trial Competitions take place?
Time trial is an additional discipline at many competitions. It depends on the organizers if they decide to include this discipline.
Can anyone, even a beginner, take part in the competition or is it necessary to train in a specific way for it and then to qualify for the competition?
Anyone who likes the discipline can compete. No qualification is needed.
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