270 Degree Jump Sequence
13 Feb 2005
The 270 degree jump sequence is a commonly seen advanced Agility course element. The name comes from the number of degrees in the outside (obtuse) angle between the two jumps. At this time, 270 degrees is the largest angle allowed between two jumps by any Agility organization. The only variations of this course sequence are the distance between the jumps and the types of jumps used (any type of jump can be used). Two 270 degree Jump arrangements are shown below:
Basic 270 Degree Jump Sequence
Alternate Entries and Exits for a 270 Degree Jump Sequence
Pull Through Entries and Exits for a 270 Degree Jump Sequence
From a course design perspective each Agility organization has rules about how many 270 degree jump sequences are allowed in a course. Typically at most two 270s are allowed and only on advanced level courses.
As shown in the second diagram above, the course designer need not limit the dog’s path to a basic circle. Any approach angle to the first jump can be combined with any exit angle. These approach and exit angles are what give the handler multiple options for tackling this sequence. Again the sharper the approach/exit angles the more advanced the sequence.
The third diagram shows both “Pull Through” entries and exits for the 270 by bringing the dog between the jumps the difficulty is further increased. It is likely using this type of approach or exit to the 270 would make some competitors unhappy with the judge, but as teams get better and better you might see these types of entrance and exit and even see them combined as courses progress. Whether they appear in trials or not, they are fun to practice.
See Handling 270 Degree Jumps for handling options for this sequence.
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