Timer

The Timer is the person that gives the handler permission to start their run. BE SURE the stopwatch is set to zero prior to each run. Tell the handler to 'Start when Ready' after ensuring the course is ready and the judge and scribe are ready.

1. The start and finish lines will be marked by cones/markers. The time will start when any portion of the DOG crosses the starting line. Focus on the starting line and start the watch when any portion of the dog breaks the plane formed by the cones. If the handler places the dog in such a position that the dog is already across the starting line, advise the handler to move their dog back behind the starting line.

2. As soon as you start the watch, look at it for at least 10 seconds to determine that it is functioning properly. If it is not operating properly, immediately blow your whistle to advise the judge that the run needs to be restarted. Also, if you must blow your whistle, CONTINUE to blow it until you get everyone's attention. The dog should not run more than 2-3 obstacles before being advised that the run needs to be restarted.

3. Stop the time when any portion of the dog crosses the finish line as they are approaching the last obstacle, whether the dog actually attempts the last obstacle. Unless advised otherwise, do not stop the watch if the dog crosses the finish line at any other time while running the course.

4. In the event of some unusual circumstances, DO NOT stop the watch unless directed to do so by the judge.

5. All dogs within a class must be judged by the same timer.

6. When the dog has completed its run, report the time to the scribe exactly as it appears on the watch, ex: 1.05.06. Sometimes there may be 2 stopwatches, and you can hand one to the assistant scribe to write down the dog's time and pick up the second stopwatch to time the next dog.

7. Reset the watch and get ready for the next dog.

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