Makeing finals more entertaining for the audience
Comments about this discussion:
Started
Dear IUF Rulebook Committee,
I would like to open a discussion regarding the current format of the Unicycle Trials Finals. As someone who closely follows both unicycle and mountain bike (MTB) trials competitions, I’ve observed that MTB trials tend to be more engaging for spectators—particularly during finals—because the format highlights one rider at a time, allowing the audience to clearly follow each performance.
In contrast, unicycle trials finals often feel chaotic, with multiple riders attempting obstacles simultaneously. This makes it difficult for spectators (and sometimes even judges) to follow the action, especially when trying to focus on top competitors. The attention tends to cluster around the main favorite, which unintentionally detracts from other riders’ performances.
I’d like to propose a more streamlined, one-rider-focused format—similar to MTB trials—for the finals. One possible structure could be:
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Each rider takes turns on the same obstacle.
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They are given up to 5 attempts. (number can be adjusted)
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Points are awarded based on how far they progress on the obstacle (lines).
- then the group moves on to another obstacle (line)
This structure would allow for fair judging, clearer commentary, and a more enjoyable experience for both live and remote audiences.
I’m curious to hear your thoughts on this direction and whether this could be explored in future updates of the rulebook.
Best regards,
Chris
Comment
I only know unicycle trials and therefore have no comparison to other sports - I would first of all agree that a trial final sometimes seems a bit chaotic, although in my opinion this depends very much on the spatial conditions, the setup of the lines and the possible positions for spectators. All in all, as a spectator I have always found trial finals very worth seeing (also because there is a lot going on at the same time) and as a judge I have always got on very well with the concept (as a judge you usually only have one line anyway).
What I see as somewhat critical about the proposal: The fact that everyone tries the same line and the consequent limitation of the number of attempts
In my opinion, it is currently quite exciting for the spectators if riders can spend many attempts on a particular line and then possibly still manage the line shortly before the end of the time. It can still change quite a lot until the end if one or two riders still manage to complete lines after many attempts. If all riders complete the lines one after the other with a limited number of attempts (which is absolutely necessary for this concept), then the situation could arise where a rider can no longer be caught up a few lines before the end because the remaining lines give fewer points than the points difference to the second-placed rider. I don't know how realistic that is, but it could make for a little less excitement.
What I find extremely good about the suggestion: Points are awarded based on how far ripers rogress on the lines
I actually had this idea last year at the DM Trial too, as I had the feeling that in the final in particular the distinction between a line completely completed or a line not completed (even taking into account the pedal grabs) was insufficient, especially for very long lines. The idea was therefore to see if it would work to divide the lines into zones, as in bouldering, for example, and award points for completing a zone. I don't think this has been tested yet, but I would be really interested to see how such a concept would be appreciated by riders in practice.
Comment
As a trials final rider I do not like to ride with does rules. It gives me as rider way more stress to do it on this way. Atm the trials finals are kinda the only "chil" finals because you can do it on your own way, take the time you need and plan as rider what you will do first and last. I know from other (female) riders that they also like to have less pressure and that the trials finals are the most "chil"
however the second rule you said would be okay to add for me but I geuss not needed. (points are awarded based on how far riders get)