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Posted on: Wednesday, August 11, 2004

TRACK & FIELD — Running events

ATHENS OLYMPIC SPORTS COMPLEX • OLYMPIC STADIUM

At the revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896, the 100 meters, 1,500 meters, 110-meter hurdles and marathon were run by men only. Three running events for women were added in 1924. Today women compete in 14 events and men 16.

EVENTS

Sprints

• 100 m
• 200 m
• 400 m

Middle distance

• 800 m
• 1,500 m

Distance

• 5,000 m
• 10,000 m
• Marathon

Race walk

• 20 km
• 50 km, men

Hurdles

• 100 m, women
• 110 m, men
• 400 m
• 3,000 m steeplechase, men

Relays

• 4 x 100 m
• 4 x 400 m

Combined

• Heptathlon, women
• Decathlon, men

The track

The 400-meter track is made of two layers of molded vulcanized rubber designed for maximum energy return.

On your marks

False starts

Only one false start per race is allowed, except in combined events, rather than one false start per athlete per race. Any athlete making the second false start will be disqualified.

Relays

Placement of runners in a relay race is key. The first runner should have a quick start, while the fastest runner takes the final leg. All athletes must run in their own lanes except for the final three legs of the 4 x 400 m.

Hurdles


Steeplechase hurdle
with water jump

There are 10 hurdles in the 100, 110 and 400 meter events and five hurdles, including a water jump, per lap in the men's 3,000 meter steeplechase.

Race walking

During competition, athletes must have one foot in contact with the ground at all times. A walker is disqualified after receiving three warnings.

Combined events

Athletes compete in a series of individual events over two days. Points are given for performances in each event. The highest overall point total wins.

Sources: International Olympic Committee; Athens Olympic Committee; "Competitive Swimming Manual for Coaches and Swimmers," James E. Counsilman; "Swimming & Diving," American Red Cross; "Sports: The Complete Visual Reference," Fran'ois Fortin; International Association of Athletics Federations; Summer Games Access; Mondo spa/Mondo USA; USA Volleyball; International Volleyball Federation; "The Complete Book of the Summer Olympics," David Wallenchinsky


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