NFR--Subjectivity of Figure Skate Grading

[Holders]

The problem in any sport is the opinion of the referee. Our GB Short speed thingy skater fell again and left in tears a few days back because she had her supporting hand pushed away from her by the skater behind her but this wasn't a foul apparently.

However I agree that sport that relies on artistic opinion is always going to be open to suggestion. I remember a ballroom dancer telling me the eventual winners in a competition not because they were the best but one judge used to coach them.  I watch the sport but no longer get quite so involved. Although I still find myself hissing and moaning when the Curling is on and somebody makes a mistake.

Same as dog shows. If the judge bred an animal that's being shown by someone else they put it up - or put up the dogs of other judges so they've got one in the bank for next time. Women exhibitors often dress appropriately to "impress" the male judges as well. It's just so obvious.