How to Prepare Evidence for a World Record Attempt
Good evidence helps document what happened during a record attempt. Preparing photographs, videos, measurements, witness information and supporting documents before the attempt can make the documentation process more organized.
The exact evidence required depends on the nature of the proposed record. Applicants should therefore follow the applicable requirements for their specific achievement.
1. Start Before the Attempt
Evidence preparation should begin before the record attempt takes place. Applicants should identify what aspects of the achievement need to be documented and prepare accordingly.
2. Understand the Record Criteria
The first question should be: what exactly needs to be demonstrated?
If the record concerns number, duration, distance, weight, participation or another measurable result, the evidence should clearly document that measurement.
3. Photographs
Photographs can provide useful visual documentation of a record attempt. Where appropriate, photographs should show the activity, participants, equipment, measurement or other relevant elements.
4. Video Evidence
Video can provide a continuous or detailed visual record of an activity. Where video is appropriate, the recording should clearly show the relevant parts of the attempt.
Applicants should ensure that important events are not unnecessarily obscured or omitted.
5. Measurements
Measurements should be recorded using appropriate methods for the particular record.
Where measuring equipment is used, relevant information about the measurement process should also be documented when required.
6. Timing
For records involving time or duration, accurate timing documentation can be particularly important.
The timing method should be appropriate to the record and documented clearly.
7. Witness Documentation
Some records may require witnesses to observe the attempt.
Where witness documentation is required, witnesses should understand what they are observing and complete the applicable forms or statements accurately.
8. Participant Records
Records involving groups or large numbers of participants may require participant documentation.
Depending on the record, this can include participant lists, attendance records or other appropriate supporting information.
9. Supporting Documents
Additional documents may sometimes be relevant to a record attempt. These can include official records, measurement documents, event information or other material that supports the achievement.
10. Organize the Evidence
Do not simply collect files without organizing them.
Create clear folders or categories for photographs, videos, measurements, witness information and supporting documents. Use understandable filenames where practical.
11. Check the Evidence Before Submission
Before submitting evidence, review it carefully.
- Are the photographs clear?
- Are important stages documented?
- Are measurements recorded?
- Are required witness documents complete?
- Are participant records available where required?
- Are videos accessible and relevant?
- Does the evidence support the proposed record?
12. Keep the Original Evidence
Applicants should retain original photographs, videos and documents where possible. Original files can be useful if additional clarification is required during the review process.
Why Evidence Matters
A record achievement is easier to understand when its documentation clearly demonstrates the relevant facts of the attempt.
Good evidence does not simply show that an event occurred. Depending on the record, it can help demonstrate what was achieved, how it was measured and whether the applicable requirements were followed.
Noble World Records Evidence Guidelines
Noble World Records provides evidence guidelines to help applicants understand the documentation expected for record attempts.
Because record categories differ, applicants should always follow the specific requirements applicable to their proposed achievement.
Preparing a Record Attempt?
Review the applicable evidence guidance before beginning your attempt.
