How Do You Score Olympic Surfing?
Surfing, once considered a rebellious and countercultural activity, has now made its way into the mainstream, becoming an official sport in the Olympics. With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics marking the first time surfing has been included in the Games, fans and competitors alike are eager to understand the scoring system that determines the winner. So, how do you score Olympic surfing?
The scoring system for Olympic surfing is based on a 10-point scale, with judges evaluating each surfer’s performance based on three main criteria: maneuverability, variety, and difficulty. Each surfer is given a score for each wave they ride, and the highest scoring wave is considered their “best wave” or “hail Mary.”
Maneuverability
The first criterion, maneuverability, refers to the variety and complexity of the moves performed on a wave. Judges look for unique and difficult maneuvers, such as aerials, barrel riding, and critical turns. The more difficult and creative the maneuver, the higher the score. For example, a surfer might score a 9.0 for a perfectly executed aerial maneuver, while a less complex maneuver might only earn a 7.0.
Variety
Variety is the second criterion, and it involves the diversity of moves and types of waves a surfer rides. Judges look for surfers who can adapt to different wave conditions and perform a range of maneuvers. A surfer who can ride both powerful rights and lefts, and who can perform various types of turns and aerials, will likely score higher than one who sticks to a limited range of maneuvers.
Difficulty
The third criterion, difficulty, is self-explanatory. It refers to the level of risk and skill required to perform a maneuver. Judges consider the potential for injury and the complexity of the maneuver when assigning points. For example, a surfer who attempts a high-risk maneuver, such as a blind barrel ride, might earn a higher score than one who performs a less risky maneuver.
Best Wave Score
After evaluating each surfer’s performance on all waves, judges determine the highest scoring wave for each competitor. This score is then multiplied by the surfer’s overall performance, including their second-highest scoring wave, to calculate their final score. The surfer with the highest final score wins the competition.
In conclusion, scoring Olympic surfing involves a combination of maneuverability, variety, and difficulty. Judges carefully evaluate each surfer’s performance to determine their final score, with the highest score winning the competition. As surfing continues to grow in popularity, understanding the scoring system is essential for fans and competitors alike.
