HDT Sat, Apr 17, 2027 · Mesa Community Center Registration opens Mon, Feb 1, 2027 · 193 days to go

Details
HDTSat, Apr 17, 2027 · Albuquerque, NM

Contest rules

Rules

High Desert Top Spin 2027 · Sat, Apr 17, 2027 · Albuquerque, NM

Contest rules

Contest Ruleset

Spinning top contests don't share one rulebook, so here's exactly how this one works. The events are typical of top contests: a trick freestyle, a longest-spin event, and a ring battle.

Trick Freestyle

  • Routine lengths are listed with each division on the Register page.
  • A dropped or stopped top can be rethrown. The clock keeps running.
  • Music must be suitable for all ages. No explicit lyrics.
  • Be ready when you're called. Missing your slot may forfeit your spot.

Longest Spin

  • Throw onto the marked surface when the judge says go.
  • The timer stops when your top stops spinning or leaves the marked area.
  • Your best of three throws counts.
  • Ties go to one extra throw each.

Ring Battle

  • Players throw into the ring together on the judge's count.
  • A top is out when it stops spinning, falls over, or leaves the ring.
  • The last top spinning in the ring wins the round. Winners advance to the final.
  • False starts are rethrown.

Equipment

  • Hand-spun or string-launched tops only. No launchers, motors, or batteries.
  • Tops for Longest Spin and Ring Battle must fit the size limits announced at check-in.
  • No sharpened or loose metal tips.
  • Judges may inspect any top before you compete.

Safety & Conduct

  • Throw only inside the marked areas, and only when the judge says go.
  • Spectators stay behind the line around the ring.
  • Judge decisions are final.
  • Respectful conduct is required. Unsportsmanlike behavior may mean disqualification.
  • Organizers may adjust the format based on registration numbers.

These rules can change before registration opens. Questions? Email contest@example.org.

Judging

How Freestyles Are Judged

Each judge scores three categories for every freestyle. Scores are averaged across the panel. Longest Spin is timed, and Ring Battle is decided round by round.

Difficulty

  • How hard the tricks are, and how many different kinds you show.
  • Harder combinations and smooth transitions score higher than repeats.

Execution

  • Clean catches, control, and recoveries.
  • Drops and unplanned stops cost points. Pick it up and keep going.

Performance

  • Use of the stage and connection with the audience.
  • Musicality: hitting the beats and changes in your song.
  • Construction: how the routine fits together from start to finish.