Summary: Use stopwatch to time a dog during a run.
This job requires full attention and no distractions, as focusing on the dog
crossing the start line and finish line is critical. One person must time an
entire jump height within a class to minimize timing differences. The Judge
will give you specific instructions on timing a class before the first dog runs.
During walk through
Introduce yourself to the judge. Ask if the judge has any special instructions.
Check the start and finish lines. Place your chair so you can see each easily,
without moving (other than swiveling in your chair). It is important that you
retain the same perspective on the start and finish line for every dog.
Get your stopwatches and whistle from the score table. Test them, make sure
they work for you.
As each dog gets on the line.
Look quickly to ensure the judge is ready and the course is clear of pole setters
and chute straighteners.
Make sure the dog isn't actually on or over the start line. If it is advise
the handler.
Cue the dog and handler by saying "Ready!" loudly and clearly as soon
as you see that the Judge is ready and you are ready to begin.
Once you have signaled the handler that you are ready you must start the watch
when the dog crosses the start line. Whether the handler was aware of it, or
intended it is not relevant. If the handler appears unaware that time has started
the timer may advise "time has started."
You can also nod or signal with a flag but not all handlers look at the timer
when starting so a loud call is important.
Keep the whistle in your mouth; as soon as a dog begins and you start the watch,
check immediately that the watch is running. If it is not, blow the whistle
immediately and loudly, no later than the third obstacle, to stop the run.
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