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<DIV><FONT color=#000000>The rules are to be followed, or changed by due
process. However, at issue seems to be whether the U S Nats are defined as
a "Continental Championship", looks like a National Championship to me (last
time I checked there were other countries on this continent) and as such our
Nats seem not to be bound by the exact procedural formats specified in the
F3A Code for world and continental championships. Certainly the procedures
adopted for the Nats must be published beforehand as required by the AMA
rules.</FONT></DIV>
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<DIV><FONT color=#000000><FONT color=#000000>I oppose dropping highs and lows,
as this practice is more justified by bias (supposed) than error. If one
considers each judge being dedicated to a conscientious job, then each
individual score should be considered valid (we teach that independence and
confidence are requisites of judging). Certainly there will be errors made -
both high and low. (I'm aware of several instances where incorrect maneuvers
were flown at this years Nats where the majority of judges didn't zero
them, I doubt that anyone really wants to pitch the valid
zero).</FONT></DIV></FONT>
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<DIV><FONT color=#000000>In my opinion, averaging the conscientious work of
all the judges is the only way to go. I venture that a number of folks
would not consider judging (especially Nats finals) if their work is to be
pitched because their evaluation differs from the other judges. I assure
you that I would likely be in that group! </FONT></FONT></DIV></DIV>
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<DIV><FONT color=#000000>I contend that it's time to apply technology to do the
technical portion of judging. Somewhere in our talented group (world wide) there
is someone who has the skills and/or resources to pursue this. Gee - a much
lighter load for judges - just smoothness and gracefulness - let a machine
handle the details.</FONT></DIV>
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<DIV><FONT color=#000000>Earl</FONT></DIV></FONT></DIV></BODY></HTML>