Track and Field Rules
Runners in the 100, 200, 400 meters and hurdles must stay in their lane the entire event or they are disqualified. Sprinters have to be in a still position before the command to start in order to avoid being disqualified from the competition. When the runners run the relay race, they have to pass off the batons in the designated areas. If they drop the baton, they can pick the baton up only if it is in their own lane and continue the race.
A pole vaulter or a high jumper fouls by knocking the pole out of the holders or not finishing the jump in the time limit required. At the height selected, the competitor may attempt to complete his or her jump three times. If the athlete misses the pole three times, he or she is disqualified from the event.
The runners may not wear any jewelry during the race except for a watch on the wrist. If a runner performs two false starts, she will be disqualified from the event. Each 100 meter interval must be clearly marked for the runner to see. Runners may not use any special materials to help them grip their baton. In the 4x400 relay, a team may be disqualified for dropping their baton.
2000 track event at the Olympics
Track Practice
Did You Know?
The javelin was redesigned in 1984 because athletes were throwing it so far that it could potentially be hurled out of the stadium and pose a health hazard.
Olympic Women