The head judge will examine the tied chain at the start and finish of each try to be sure that the chain is thrown and tied correctly. The judge will drop the tied chain from waist height on the spot designated by the contestants. Time begins whenever either contestant first touches the chain on the ground. The chain must be completely laid out by the head chainman, and either or both chainmen must remove all kinks from the chain. Simultaneously with the rear chainman touching the starting pin, the head chainman must stretch the chain and clearly touch the chaining pin 131 feet away.
Time ends when the chain hits the ground.
To be correctly tied, both thongs must be wrapped at least twice and secured in any fashion so it will remain secure after the chain is dropped over the finishing stake. Failure to achieve this will result in disqualification.