Middle
distance races - safety recommendations:
At the meeting of the executive committee of the Dorset Schools Athletic
Association held on Monday 15th September 2003 the question of safety at the
start of races longer than 400m was discussed. The 600m and the 800m were
thought to be potentially hazardous given that runners tend to sprint to the
crown of the bend, posing a danger to those in the inside lanes.
The following guidelines are offered to those responsible for starting
races:
600m:
runners should start in lanes using the staggers as for the 200m start and break
after the first bend (on entry into the straight). There should be a maximum of
two athletes per lane. If there are more athletes than the number thus
permitted, then heats should be run and positions decided on times achieved.
800m: runners should start in lanes and break after the
first bend, with a maximum of two athletes per lane. If there are more athletes
than the number thus permitted, then heats should be run and positions decided
on times achieved. Schools are encouraged to have the new staggers marked on
their tracks. These will be half the stagger used for a 400m race. A different
colour should be used to avoid confusion with the start of the 400m.
1500m: Runners should be advised that they have almost 100m
before the first bend and that they should work their way gradually towards the
inside lanes. It is important to be aware of the different height and build of
athletes – smaller athletes can easily be barged and elbowed by larger
runners. In mixed-age races, older runners should occupy the inside lanes. Track
judges should be satisfied that athletes understand the safety issues involved
in the start.
15th September 2003