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About Richard Howland
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I am a master USATF Track and Field official and can answer questions about officiating high school (NFHS), college (NCAA), National (USATF) and international in field events. I am not a coach except for other officials. My specialties are the Field events except pole vault.

Experience
I delight in meeting athletes from all backgrounds and ages. I have even officiated field events for a one hundred year old long jumper as well as many "Master" and "Senior" athletes. Special olympics is a great event for officials to volunteer and see the essence of good sport on the faces of the athletes. After thirty three years as a trial lawyer in Massachusetts with a focus on sports law, among others, I retired and devote much of my time to officiating. I referee soccer, time football, officiate swimming and diving, and officiate and start all events in track and field. My special focus in field events. In high school and college I played soccer, squash and lacrosse, but track was not available in any depth then. Since I was a lawyer I began officiating and training to officiate sports which I could fit into my schedule. I honestly do not remember when I first started track and field officiating, but estimate that I have been very active for at least fifteen years. I regularly officiate all events and levels.

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Questions Answered By Expert Richard Howland
In Category Track & Field

Subject	Date Asked

mid distance	10/22/2009
Q: i'm starting my freshmen year in high school. last year my times were 5:20 flat in mile. and 2:09 in ... A: The system says that for some reason my answer of last week did not go out. I am sorry as such ...
sprinting diets and training	10/18/2009
Q: my name is Lindsey and I'm 16 years old. i need some help with my sprinting diet and training. I'm ... A: Lindsey: First you need to remember that I am an official and not a coach of track and field or ...
Discus	10/14/2009
Q: 195 LB Senior. I just recently threw in the mid to high 120's in disc and was wondering what my ... A: I am an official and not a coach and do not want you to misunderstand my answer. Because I have ...
800/1500 meters	9/25/2009
Q: I am a junior in hs, and will be running track. My goal is to run a sub 2:05 800 and sub 4:30 1500. ... A: Jason: I am told that you did not get my answer last week. We had electrical issues here and ...
Middle Distance Training	9/22/2009
Q: I don't know whether you know much about middle distance or not, but I'll ask my question anyway. ... A: All running,actually all athletic events, are totally personal. A coach is needed to observe and ...
Measuring the long jump take off mark	9/22/2009
Q: My question is about measuring a mark for long jumpers so they don't have to do a run back each time ... A: I believe that most long jumpers and their coaches work out how and where they like to determine ...
track and field	9/9/2009
Q: What is the positions of officials in track events? A: Romel Carlo: Track officials assume positions on the track event which are different for so many ...
track and field workout routine???	9/8/2009
Q: Track starts in march. My best event is the 100m dash. my time is 13 seconds and I want to get it ... A: Lindsey: It always takes one day at a time. People do not change without work, dedication and ...
track and field workout routine???	9/6/2009
Q: Track starts in march. My best event is the 100m dash. my time is 13 seconds and I want to get it ... A: You have reasonable goals which are attainable. No question that a great deal of work and practice ...
Off-Season Sprint Training	9/4/2009
Q: I'm a bit puzzled as to how to train off-season for track and field. At the moment, I am a junior in ... A: I am sure that there are as many routines for training any event as there are coaches and runners. ...
getting back out there	8/26/2009
Q: ? I've been a track runner (sprinter) for 16 years. I gradtauted college and had 2 kids. I am in ... A: Stacey: I cannot answer for the coaches of U of H, but most coaches are thrilled to be able to ...
track	8/21/2009
Q: how is lane selection made in a final? fastest time gets to choose lane and second fastest etc? A: Competition rules (IAAF, USATF, NCAA, NFHS, and local association) provide specific assignments for ...
long jump	8/11/2009
Q: wes A: The site referenced below is a very large website for sports training including much on track and ...
Do i have the potential?	8/7/2009
Q: i run the 100 and 200 meter dashes my personal best are 10.48 and 21.27 and also im just about to ... A: The most wonderful aspect of track is that no matter when you get committed and serious about the ...
walking on the track	7/24/2009
Q: How many laps do I need to walk , to reach a distance of two miles ? This is a track on college ... A: Joyce: Guess what? The answer is that depends. Generally most people consider four laps on a ...
overall physical structure of a track and of the different field events	7/16/2009
Q: I am clueless about track and field and as part of a project a profesor has asked me to draw a ... A: Leo: There are a variety of options for designing and building a track. Primary is the issue of ...
440 Yard Track Outside Lane	7/13/2009
Q: If the inside lane of a 440 yard track is navigated 4 times around from start to finish to run a ... A: Jon: You are asking an algebra question, which is okay, but the basis of the equation has to be ...
discus grip	7/9/2009
Q: Well I'm asking if there is a legal way to get more grip on the discus when throwing it. I have a ... A: Ells: Junior Olympics is a program under the auspices of the USATF. The Rules of USATF with ...
false starts	6/29/2009
Q: Can you please tell me the rule on false starts according to the USA Track and Field guildlines? A: Gary: The rule on False Starts is USATF Rule 162. It is fairly lengthy, but the general sense is: ...
800m is this good?	6/28/2009
Q: I have not run I'm for 4 years. I am a 12 year old boy i don't train. Recently i have ran it 3 times ... A: Ben: In order to be a safe runner, you need to practice, be guided and observed by a running coach. ...
discus private training/tutor western MA.	6/13/2009
Q: My son is completing his sophmore year at Hampshire Regional and has improved quite a bit on his ... A: Ann (and Jay): I am not a coach and have not been (in track and field). I am very uneasy about ...
discus private training/tutor western MA.	6/11/2009
Q: My son is completing his sophmore year at Hampshire Regional and has improved quite a bit on his ... A: Ann: You might call running track clubs like Sugarloaf runners to see if there is an adult member ...
Getting faster	6/4/2009
Q: i ran the 100, 200, 4by1, 4by4, and 400 all on varsity. my 100m time was 11.41 my 200m time was ... A: Jimmy: Starting from the top, coaches actually have an important place in the sports world and you ...
triple jump	6/2/2009
Q: How far should I place the take off mark for the first phase of the triple jump (hop) for 12-14 year ... A: Rod: I have been looking for guidance to answer your question. At first the question is under what ...
Timing sprinting and running events	5/28/2009
Q: I have been going to my daughters track meets for the last 4 years and have helped time at alot of ... A: In my region FAT is becoming quite common and hand timing is only for the dual meets and tri-meets ...
High Jump	5/21/2009
Q: Please define what constitutes a scratch or disqualificiation (if anything) in terms of 'breaking ... A: Imagine that the bar between the uprights is the top of truly flat curtain. The curtain below the ...
Track and Field	5/20/2009
Q: Is 56.3 seconds a good time for a freshman in the 400 meter dash ? A: Joshua: I was going to write that it was a great time for a woman, and also for a man. In any ...
Uniform rule disqualification	5/10/2009
Q: My son was disqualified for wearing a shirt under his uniform top that was red and black which are ... A: Hill: Viewing and commenting upon an official ruling without obseving it is not probably ...
Discusrules	5/9/2009
Q: After marking a throw can a thrower step on the ring as they exit? A: Tony: After a competitor has thrown a discus and, (NFHS official has called "mark", or with NCAA ...
mile	5/8/2009
Q: Recent 8th grade boy in Anchorage, Alaska ran the mile in 5.04; I believe that he broke the state ... A: Darlene: I am not able to find a definitive eighth grade boy's fastest mile in the USA. However, ...
Day of race	5/4/2009
Q: My daughter runs the 200m for her high school. I have notices as of late that she appears to fade ... A: I am an official and not a nutritionist, doctor or coach. That said I believe that the answer lies ...
"California starts"	5/2/2009
Q: How do we measure/determine the line for a "California start", and where is the "break point"? A: Bob: I have never heard the turn used and after about an hour of research was on the verge of ...
Timing	5/1/2009
Q: I coordinate track meets for our middle school. There is a discrepancy as to how to time events. ... A: Cindy: The most usual and only successful system I have seen for handtiming school and any other ...
Long jump Rule	4/30/2009
Q: Jumper approaches board on first try and aborts the jump by running off the runway, but does not ... A: Catania: All the rules I am aware of and/or which I consulted relative to long jump permit a ...
Running Track	4/29/2009
Q: What is the distance of a full lap in a running track? Are the distances different for each lane ... A: Lopez: Tracks are not uniform in all respects and so one needs to know enough about the particular ...
Hurdles	4/21/2009
Q: How tall are the jr. high hurdles? A: Brooke: High hurdles for seventh, eighth and ninth grade athletes under the National Federation of ...
Track and Field	4/20/2009
Q: What is the distance from the international mark to the start of the exchange zone, and what is the ... A: Kenner: To answer your question about track markings for IAAF 400 meter tracks, go to ...
track shoes and cleats	4/19/2009
Q: My children have just started track this year in middle school. I have purchased track shoes which ... A: I am uncertain about the type of shoes you purchased and the word "cleats" contrasted with "spikes". ...
Ladies marathon 70 yrs +	4/19/2009
Q: Could you tell me who holds the British and world record in this age group? A: I confess that although I have been a volunteer official at the Boston Marathon for years, I never ...
long jump predictor?	4/18/2009
Q: Im curious if there are any long jump calculators based on 40m/100m + vertical jump. I feel that ... A: Pete: I cannot answer your question with any of my own information, but there is a superb sports ...
conversions	4/13/2009
Q: To understand comparative times, what is the allowance when comparing the 3200 meter time to 3000 ... A: Dan: I cannot find a conversion "table" meaning a regularly used conversion factor for the purpose ...
track lane width	4/12/2009
Q: What is the minimum width allowed for a high school track lane? A: Jeff: Rule 5 Section 2 Article 3 of the NFHS (High School) rule book provides that "Lanes vary in ...
i need your help to improve my times both 400m and 200m	4/11/2009
Q: good day everyone, I'm a soccer player and i started running track, on the pitch I'm pretty fast but ... A: Ben: Go to the website at http://www.brianmac.co.uk/siteindx.htm and scroll to the sprints articles ...
i need your help to improve my times both 400m and 200m	4/10/2009
Q: good day everyone, I'm a soccer player and i started running track, on the pitch I'm pretty fast but ... A: I guess that you ask the question every athlete would ask and hope for an answer. I referee soccer ...
Track & Field Starter	4/9/2009
Q: How do I go about becoming a IHSA official starter? A: Eric: Assuming you refer to Illinois officials the only site I am aware of is found at: ...
high jump	4/9/2009
Q: is it legal to jump off of two feet in the high jump A: Kyle: Under NFHS Rules Rule 7, Article 12 "A competitor may attempt to clear the bar in any manner, ...
Hand Time vs. ET	4/8/2009
Q: I saw you answered a question a few yrs back on the difference between hand timed and electic timed. ... A: Seth: RULE 3 Section 9 Article 4 of the NFHS Track and Field Rules provides the rule and it applies ...
100th Drake Relays 4x200 qualifying time?	4/5/2009
Q: I keep looking for an answer and i cant find one. What is the qualifying time for men in the 4x200 ... A: Heath: I have no personal information and find the Drake Relays websites to be quite unhelpful. I ...
shot and discus	4/4/2009
Q: My daughter is in 7th grade and is throwing shot and discus. It does not seem like her coach is ... A: The discus for girls is 2.20 lbs (2 lbs 3.27 ounces or 1 kg.) an d conforms in all particular to the ...
Shuttle Hurdles	4/1/2009
Q: How do you set up a shuttle hurdles relay? What is the exchange zone? A: I assume that it is possible to vary any event into a shuttle relay if one takes the time to figure ...
Spikes	3/31/2009
Q: Each track is made different materials what spikes are the best for different tracks A: I am an official and have been involved in track and field although I have never coached. I try to ...
Quarter mile conversion to 400	3/30/2009
Q: I ran the quarter mile in high school my time was 49.8 and it was the school record at the time. In ... A: I believe that you can find a very useful and valuable calculator for your questions now and ever in ...
Triple Jump	3/30/2009
Q: Hey, i was wondering if there is some type of weight lifting program or something that i can do for ... A: Keaton: I am not a coach, but an official and as such I do not give coaching advice. In addition, ...
Track rules	3/27/2009
Q: We just competed in the 4X200 relay. There were only 3 teams in the heat. The meet officials ... A: Brad: I am not aware of Texas special rules, nor of the Texas protocol for track meets. In all ...
Track and Field	3/26/2009
Q: My Question to you, I am making a Triple Jump and Long Jump pit in my back yard and i am just ... A: I answered this question some time ago and that answer was: Your safety and future depend upon ...
Jr High track- hurdles	3/25/2009
Q: Specifically relating to the 75 meter hurdles: Do you know the distance between the start and 1st ... A: Sara: I am referring to the NFHS Rules for 2009. Girls 55-meter LH 5 hurdles first at 13.0m 8.5m ...
HELP!	3/23/2009
Q: I am a senior in high school, and I Tripple Jump, but can't get past my PR. As a sophmore, I jumped ... A: As my resume notes I am an official, not a coach. However as a student of track and field I gather ...
Regulation spike lengths	3/21/2009
Q: What are the minimum and maximum lengths for spikes? My daughter is running 400 m and hurdles for ... A: I am an official and have been involved in track and field although I have never coached. I try to ...
Track surveyor	3/19/2009
Q: I've noticed that the USATF records application includes a section required the signature of the ... A: Liz: I believe I can shed some light, but so much because of any direct knowledge or official ...
track	3/17/2009
Q: If a track has 8 lanes and each lane has its own distance what is the distance of each lane? How ... A: Tracks generally come in four different measurements. Today newer outdoor tracks are almost all 400 ...
400m indoor to outdoor time conversion	3/16/2009
Q: I recently ran a 50.62s Indoor 400m. What is the conversion to figure out what my outdoor 400m time ... A: Steven: The best I can find is the material quoted here which addresses times in the 400 and the ...
high school high jump	3/15/2009
Q: Where can I find all the rules and regulations that pertain to high school high jump? ...especially ... A: Mark: Colorado probably applies the Nation Federation of High Schools' Rule for Track and Field ...
Discus throw technique	3/10/2009
Q: I have a 12-years old kid, who's now interested in throwing discus. I've shot a clip of one of his ... A: Esa: Thank you for your question. As my resume shows I am an official not a coach of track and ...
track	3/10/2009
Q: what is the distance of a regulation high school track if someone is walking it. how many times do ... A: Carlos: As asked thee is no answer that applies to all high school tracks. Historically tracks ...
track dimensions	3/7/2009
Q: My town is currently designing a large fieldhouse, and will be able to accommodate a 400 meter ... A: Kevin: Your town has plans for a very large track and I confess that I have not seen an indoor ...
track shoes	2/24/2009
Q: Are the new Nike Zoom Victory track spike legal for high school track meets? A: I cannot answer about a specific shoe, but I do have a reference about spikes and track wich you may ...
spike regulation lengths	2/18/2009
Q: what are the legal spike lengths for javelin boots at age: <15 <17 >18 ???????????? A: I am very sorry for the long delay, but my computer and I were oth hospitalized and I just returned ...
High School Outdoor track dimensions	2/12/2009
Q: what are the demensions of a standard High school Track? A: Dwight: A good site for you to review for a sources of answers to specific questions is: ...
Marathon	2/8/2009
Q: What is the fastest time a man 50 or older has run the marathon? A: Russell: The chart I have provided covers the marathon records for men and women for just about ...
TRACK START	1/14/2009
Q: I recently seen a team at an indoor meet using tape measures to set their blocks. I asked the coach ... A: I personally never have heard of "troy cancer" or any words sounding like that which apply to your ...
shot put	1/6/2009
Q: how many phases do shot put has A: Shakur: This a website which contains a great deal of good information which I refer to frequently ...
HAmstrings	1/4/2009
Q: I run the 100m hurdles and some short sprints and I have a huge problem with tight hamstrings. I ... A: Hamstrings are not my specialty as an official and I am not trained as a trainer or physician. I ...
Track Spikes	1/4/2009
Q: I am going to be running the 110M hurdles and i am a state competitor, i was wondering what you ... A: I am an official and have been involved in track and field although I have never coached. I try to ...
time conversion manual Vs electronic	12/30/2008
Q: you answered a previous question re converting manual times the formula to electronic equivalent. Is ... A: IAAF Rule 165 addresses the timing of races under the IAAF system, hand, photo and so forth. I am ...
Passing Other Runners...	12/27/2008
Q: Hey, I just ran a high school indoor track meet and I had the inside of the curve while running a ... A: Kate: This is really a coach question since exactly how the problem arose is essential to ...
55m	12/11/2008
Q: I run the 55m and I feel like since I'm on the shorter side people have more of an advantage over me ... A: Jenna: There are many elements that make up both a body of a person and the environment where that ...
Dimensions of a track in Iowa.	12/8/2008
Q: I am wondering if there are length or width restrictions for a track at a High School in Iowa? What ... A: I do not think that a track in Iowa has any unique requirements that all tracks in the USA apply. ...
shot put	11/25/2008
Q: and i have been throwing the shot for three years not. My first year i throw 34feet standing, 2nd ... A: The answer about specific training regimes for athletes is that they are unique and training should ...
track&field	11/9/2008
Q: hello im just want to ask what are the positions in starting a race A: Your question has many answers and so I will try to cover several and then I would like you to go to ...
sprint help	11/3/2008
Q: I'm a 16 year old junior in high school my personal best in the 100m and 200m are 11.1 and 23.0 ... A: Dylan: Most regions have running clubs, certainly in suburban and urban area and many more ...
discus throwing	10/30/2008
Q: my personal best throw is 85 feet i weigh 172 i bench 175 i power clean 155 i squat 280 A: I do not know where you live or the level at which you are competing, but from the information I ...
choosing the right running events on the track	10/29/2008
Q: I am a female 15 almost 16 year old sophomore cross country, and track runner. I was wondering what ... A: You are obviously planning for goals that you wish to achieve. All of your questions are reasonable ...
NCAA	10/28/2008
Q: I am an athlete on the verge of being a top prospect. I believe I can do it but my grades are not ... A: Gerald: Any scholarship program will be a subject for you and a school that may admit you. Good ...
Long Jump work out	10/26/2008
Q: I'm a long jumper and I want to know something about it. Barring all the techniques, I want to know ... A: I believe that there are few websites which cover your event and interest in the depth of the Sports ...
beginners distance	10/23/2008
Q: I am a senior in high school and i just became interested in throwing shot fro my school. My ... A: Rob: I doubt that anyone who does not know you and cannot see you can gauge anything about your ...
Junior Olympics	10/22/2008
Q: Hey richard, My names Matt and im 15 years old, 5'9,140 pounds. I run the 100m and my best time is a ... A: Junior Olympics is a program of USATF Track and Field the governing association in this country for ...
track	10/21/2008
Q: i run 100m in 12.4 and a 200m in 25.7 how can i get faster to do a 100m in 11.0-11.3 secs and a 200m ... A: For guidance and coaching tips I refer athletes and coaches to an English website where more ...
Training for Marathon	10/7/2008
Q: I'm 16 years old and I've started training for the Big Sur Int. Marathon. I've run atleast four 10K ... A: Chelsea: Your ambition sounds very exciting and forward. I certainly do think that you should get ...
spike formation	9/20/2008
Q: What is the best formation with spikes for sprints A: Shayne: As my profile shows, I am an official, not and never a coach of track, so my answer is ...
training	8/31/2008
Q: Mr. Howland I understand completely what you mean about running is dangerous and could cause ... A: Charlie: Taking into account the understanding you express about care, the need for a coach or ...
Starting Over	8/28/2008
Q: Mr. Howland- For the past few years, I have had an increasing desire to return to track and field. ... A: Joe: The program that sounds appropriate for you is the USATF Masters (over 30) in all events and a ...
100m and 200m times	8/27/2008
Q: In the recent week, i just took up track, or sprinting to be more specific, in light of the beijing ... A: Charlie: It is time for you to get yourself a coach. It will help you to adopt a program that is ...
training for throwing competitions	8/25/2008
Q: I would like to know if you can give me any guidance in finding a coach to train me in throwing ... A: Antonio: You give no idea of age or location and I cannot give you any direct advice. However, my ...
track meets	8/25/2008
Q: I am getting back into sprinting after a few years of not competing and need to know where they have ... A: Kevin: Your best bet to reintroduce yourself to organized track and running is to contact USATF ...
Coming back	8/24/2008
Q: I'm ran track all through high school and my first year in college. I run the 400m, and would like ... A: Brentsen: There is never an age or time when running is not a good exercise and hence can be run ...
becoming a professional sprinter	8/22/2008
Q: I am a sprinter and would like to know what the steps are to becoming a professional sprinter. I ... A: Joe: I am not at all sure that "professional sprinting" is a goal so much as something that comes ...
Question about the track	8/20/2008
Q: On a standard high school track 4 laps is a mile right and you know how the track is split into 4 ... A: Jeremy: Tracks are usually 400 meters so that four complete laps in lane one would be 1600 meters, ...
track&field	8/20/2008
Q: Hi my name is kyla an I was wondering if your home schooled can you still run track? A: Kyla: The rules of track do not have any effect on how you are schooled. If there is any reason why ...
get into olympics	8/18/2008
Q: Seeing as your an official for USATF how does a young track competitor such as myself get into the ... A: Zack: A life of discipline, dedication, harder work than anyone else ever does for anything, ...
800m. Training	8/17/2008
Q: Hey, Last year I did Cross Country and did ok but it was never really my thing. I also did the 800 ... A: Jillian: The very best possible choice would be your coach or a person who can watch you perform ...
Track building	8/9/2008
Q: I am an Elementary School Physicak Esucation Teacher and I will be working at a recently built ... A: Henry: Building a track is an engineering job which requires and engineer or an architect to layout ...
Track distances	8/7/2008
Q: To follow up on a question asked earlier....at the 400-meter track I walk, the officials ask that ... A: Tracks are concentric ovals with a specific perimeter as the core. Once laid out the track is often ...
Improving my 400m	8/7/2008
Q: I will be entering my Sophmore year. I am going to try the open 400m this year. I ran summer track ... A: Camron: I believe that most anyone can dedicate discipline, intensity of commitment, and basic ...
track distances	8/3/2008
Q: There are six lanes at the local high school track where I run or walk. I assume the inner lanes are ... A: Deb: A track is simply concentric circles that are shaped to fit into a particular space. The ...
Sprint Training and Diet	8/2/2008
Q: I am 25 yr old man, height 6"3 and weight approx 75-80 kgs . I am going to take part in 100 m/200m ... A: Ray: Frankly I personally would not feel that impending serious sprint competition would be wise ...
Sprint Training	7/30/2008
Q: I am not involved in a club and our athletics season has finished but I was wondering what kind of ... A: Olivia: Training is an athletic performance just as any other sport is. It should be specific for ...
Track and Field	7/30/2008
Q: Last year i was on my track team in high school and over the summer i didn't train so i my not in ... A: Ashley: Yes. Return to training with a coach or trainer who knows you and can watch you perform. ...
Discus training	7/29/2008
Q: I threw discus for 6 years in high school and part of college. My back was hurt when I was a ... A: Matt: I empathize with your dilemma. Having numerous injuries in my life, I know that starting ...
Track Decision	7/29/2008
Q: Hey me again. I usually play basketball in the winter, but I am considering not playing and focusing ... A: Jon: I think that you must decide for yourself what your goals and interest are. We know that I do ...
Improving my 400m	7/29/2008
Q: I am going to be a sophomore this year in high school and when tracks rolls around, a want to be as ... A: Jon: It would be wrong for me to try to tell you anything about yourself and what you should do in ...
Track & Field	7/27/2008
Q: In relay racing what is the meaning of visual pass and blind pass of the baton. A: Boris: The difference between the two techniques is simply the style or method that the receiving ...
Good Times?	7/14/2008
Q: I am 15 years old and have only been going to an athletics club for 4 weeks. I competed in my first ... A: Sean: "Good times" are personal. After you have been training for some time, it might be time to ...
Wind Interference/Aid	7/9/2008
Q: I was wondering what the equation is to calculate the wind aid in a 200M race from MPH to the number ... A: I assume without knowing that one would reduce the time of the average speed of the run by 1 meter ...
Wind Interference/Aid	7/8/2008
Q: I was wondering what the equation is to calculate the wind aid in a 200M race from MPH to the number ... A: Wind gauge (anemometer) average reading in excess of +2.0 meters per second would invalidate a ...
Converting from manual time to automatic time	7/6/2008
Q: The high school where my daughter attends has badly neglected the T & F record board. Some of the ... A: Paul: All track conversions I have specify adding 0.24 to Manual time to equal FAT. There is ...
timing > sprints	7/6/2008
Q: I coach soccer at the HS level. I would like my boys to be able to be able to time themselves in a ... A: Ron: When I time sprints or fifty meter or any other running event by hand I use a commonly ...
different distances between lanes	7/5/2008
Q: I understand that most HS tracks, usually call "quarter mile" tracks are, really 400 meters on the ... A: Ziggy: Sorry to be unclear. I reviewed designs for a dozen tracks offered by commercial ...
different distances between lanes	7/4/2008
Q: I understand that most HS tracks, usually call "quarter mile" tracks are, really 400 meters on the ... A: Ziggy: It is really a math and geometry question. Tracks in the US at most levels today will be 400 ...
announcing track and field	6/28/2008
Q: Is there a set amount of time that the announcer should announce the first and final calls for track ... A: David I have not found any specific rule nor a practice standard specifying annuncer duties as to ...
Summer Training	6/27/2008
Q: I want to first start off by thanking you for what you do. Your recent advice has contributed to the ... A: Joshua you have tackled a pretty complicated and, I fear, dangerous program. Most athletes try to ...
Shot Put/Sprinter	6/27/2008
Q: I am 16, about 5'10" and I run 100s and 400s, and also throw shot put. What kinds of weight lifting ... A: Amber: Sorry answer is late I was in hospital for several days repairing shoulder. Because there ...
repainting	6/26/2008
Q: i am repainting a track and need a picture if the field with dementions between markers and hurdle ... A: Matt: Sorry to be late responding. I had a shoulder replaced and was in hospital for a few days. ...
take off bins for take off boards	6/19/2008
Q: where can i purchase take off bins for the construction of a long jump runway? these bins are placed ... A: Clayton: I have no interest in nor do I benefit in any way from this vendor in my general area: ...
track	6/15/2008
Q: I am a junior well as of a couple of days ago i am a senior,but i just got done with this past track ... A: First get tied in with a coach and a trainer. They do not need to be daily, but the trainer is ...
Track & Field rules	6/11/2008
Q: i would like to know measurements of track and field equipments(shot,discus,javelin,hammer) for the ... A: All Experts tells me that you did not receive my answer to your question, and I apologize for the ...
Back In shape	6/10/2008
Q: Hey ive been out of running for about four years now . When i was running I ran the 200m ( 21.5 ) ... A: Jerome: As I am not a coach of track and field and never have been I can only claim to be an ...
about season 200-400 work out	6/7/2008
Q: sir i am 40 years defence person srinter my saaf meet in august pleease advice me workout. A: I hope I understand your question. I am not a coach, but a fairly experienced official. While I do ...
weight of implements for men age 60-64	6/2/2008
Q: Can you tell me the weight for a men's master competitor ages 60-64. Thank you ... A: I apologize for the delay in replying, but I needed to be sure of my answer by referring to the 2008 ...
wait time between set and gun fire	6/1/2008
Q: Is there a specific wait time (2 seconds) from set to the starter firing the starter's pistol? A: There is no rule or specific standard since the runners would be able to gauge their start to ...
names of the track relay positions	5/31/2008
Q: my name is Sunny and i use to run track years ago in high school. I am wondering what the titles of ... A: Sunny: I may disappoint you. The only consistent or most frequently heard "name" for a relay ...
200m and 400m dash	5/29/2008
Q: My name is Vince, I'm 15, a sophomore. I'm a sprinter event runner. My PR for the 200m dash is 25.03 ... A: Vince: Please go to the website and review the many different specific articles on sprinting for my ...
400m training	5/28/2008
Q: I am a freshman girl and run Varsity track. I have always run the 100 200 and relays. At the end ... A: There are a great many specific things that you can do to improve your performance and an equal ...
200m and 400m dash	5/27/2008
Q: My name is Vince, I'm 15, a sophomore. I'm a sprinter event runner. My PR for the 200m dash is 25.03 ... A: There are a great many specific things that you can do to improve your time and an equal number to ...
400 METER DASH	5/27/2008
Q: MY DAUGHTER RUNS THE 100,200,AND 400 DASH,S IN HIGH SCHOOL MEETS AND IS GOING TO THE STATE FINALS ... A: Dennis: You and your daughter are welcome for whatever help I have provided. As for your further ...
400 METER DASH	5/26/2008
Q: MY DAUGHTER RUNS THE 100,200,AND 400 DASH,S IN HIGH SCHOOL MEETS AND IS GOING TO THE STATE FINALS ... A: Dennis: Congratulations to your daughter. I have several thoughts first which I offer for your ...
official results	5/19/2008
Q: according to nfhs rules exactly when are results final? during a 2 day event, when the previous ... A: Shawn: I apologize for the delay in getting back to you. "According to NFHS Rules" there is no ...
Hurdle DQ	5/18/2008
Q: During a recent conference finals meet. One of our 110 high hurdle runners was taken down by a ... A: Kim: I cannot second guess a call which I did not see and about the circumstances I cannot verify. ...
400 meter time	5/18/2008
Q: I love running the 400. I am 13 and run a 62.94 I would like to get faster and stronger, What work ... A: Time in running is relative and needs to be tested by how your opponents are doing against you. If ...
400 meter time	5/17/2008
Q: I love running the 400. I am 13 and run a 62.94 I would like to get faster and stronger, What work ... A: The answer for learning the best workout is to find a good coach and work with her to benefit from ...
440 Track Dimensions	5/16/2008
Q: I'm designing a 440 running track for the Air Force at Lackland AFB, TX. This track is used for ... A: The inside Lane #1 is the lane which is calibrated so that a runner completing a lap of Lane #1 from ...
Starting commands	5/14/2008
Q: Richard, You have been a big help in my first season. In the meet I'm starting on Saturday the ... A: The standard practice is to give the "Take Your Marks" command when the runners are in a standing ...
shot put	5/12/2008
Q: I am twelve and in year eight. i throw 9.65 metres which is about 31 feet.I threw this when i had a ... A: oj: I am sorry that I confused you. Remember that I am only an official and not a coach. So often ...
shot put	5/10/2008
Q: I am twelve and in year eight. i throw 9.65 metres which is about 31 feet.I threw this when i had a ... A: This is a program for coaches and new shot putters prepared by a coach in England which answers most ...
blocks	5/7/2008
Q: Looking for some clarification on foot placement in blocks. I will tell you how I teach kids and ... A: Fred: I am not a coach, but an official. On the other hand I am a serious fan of learning about ...
speed endurence for 400m	5/7/2008
Q: my name is Jude. I am wondering whats the best way to train for the 400m. Should i mainly focus on ... A: Jude: I am not a coach, but an official. Accordingly I do not try to coach, but rather point you ...
100 yd dash	5/7/2008
Q: It seems that my speed dies after 40yds when running the 100 meter dash, what are some techniques in ... A: I am an official and not a coach. I believe that you will find a better answer than I could ever ...
My mile time	5/6/2008
Q: Yes I am only 14 and I was wondering if the mile time of 4:36 is good. I am a very sports oriented ... A: Saucey: Your time is certainly competitive at your age. Working to refine your running needs a ...
100, 200, and 400	5/6/2008
Q: i was wondering how i could improve my 100, 200, and 400 times. I'm 16 years old, 6'1, and i weigh ... A: Matt: We are not all made to run or swim or sing. On the other hand you may be born to run. The ...
help	5/5/2008
Q: I'm Bertrand and i am 22.I weight 92 kg and measure 1.78m.In 100m i run 12.3s and in 200m 30s.I've ... A: Bertrand: I am sorry that I missed the significance of this part of your question. The answer is ...
help	5/4/2008
Q: I'm Bertrand and i am 22.I weight 92 kg and measure 1.78m.In 100m i run 12.3s and in 200m 30s.I've ... A: I do not think that your time is the first question when you are beginning training. Working with ...
50-yard dash question	5/2/2008
Q: My name is Joe, and I'm a 14 year old 8th grader in America. I play soccer. My height is about ... A: Joe: First of all, it sounds like a pretty fair time given your age and size and experience. ...
Improving My 100+200m times	5/1/2008
Q: At coaching sessions I can consistently run under 12 seconds in the I'm and I can run 25-24 seconds ... A: Daniel: When anyone is starting out, anxiety can be very high on race days. Generally newcomers ...
Long Jump	4/30/2008
Q: I was recentlty at a track meet and I was watching the long jump measurements. They were measuring ... A: Jim: What you describe would not be correct and should not be the way that long jump is officiated. ...
Construction of the run up to a long jump pit	4/30/2008
Q: Can you please tell me what is the best material to use for the run up to a long jump pit? Grass is ... A: I am sorry, but I do not know anything about construction and therefore cannot answer your question ...
ways to start a track meet	4/29/2008
Q: how many different starts are there to use in a race? I heard there where 6. A: Megan: I suspect that the number of ways to start a running event are many since they are, of ...
Long Jump Pit	4/28/2008
Q: Being an assistant coach I reconstructed a long jump pit according to the rules on how to build it, ... A: Dan: I am not a contractor and cannot speak to the construction you describe. I assume that the ...
200 & 400m	4/27/2008
Q: My daughter is 13 and really enjoys running the 200 and 400m sprints. The problem is that last year ... A: Tony: I suspect that it is too early to get very concerned about plateaus in growing girls since ...
1600 meter time	4/27/2008
Q: My son is in the 7th grade (13) and yesterday participated in the north state track competition. He ... A: Mark: You might google the USATF Junior Olympics to see if they have any record information boys ...
Track starting lines	4/26/2008
Q: Are the staggered starting line colors the same on all tracks? Can you provide me the staggered ... A: Miller There are no universal standards of track marking in use in this country, although there are ...
shot put distances	4/25/2008
Q: What distances are common for olympic shot putters? What lb shotput do they put? A: Jeania: I am sorry that my answer did not go earlier. Something happened in the transmission. In ...
4 x 100 m relay; 11 year old boys	4/23/2008
Q: My son is 11y/o and will be participating in a V.I.S.A. Track Meet in approx. 9 days. I realize the ... A: Jackie: You are a brave Mother and I fear you may be getting more than you should handle too ...
Timing the 400	4/23/2008
Q: I am a sprinting coach for a high school program, but have recently had debates with my other ... A: Chad: You decide which works best for your purposes. They all will give reasonably accurate times ...
400m dash	4/23/2008
Q: Couple of questions, I am a senior in High School and run the 400m in 50.95 seconds, how enviable is ... A: Matt: As an official I am not as familiar with "enviable" times in any event, of course I know the ...
Timing the 400	4/23/2008
Q: I am a sprinting coach for a high school program, but have recently had debates with my other ... A: Chad: This is a common question for some coaches, but the answer is simpler: The times are done by ...
shot put	4/22/2008
Q: In what year did the interscholastic rules change in the shot put event to go from the 8# shot to ... A: My research does not answer the question you ask. The usual choices are 8.8 pounds or 4 kilograms ...
400 meter dash	4/21/2008
Q: im estefania im a 8th grader that runs the 400 meter dash in 1:02. I would like to improve my time ... A: Sprinting, like all running, is a complicated event in which your body must perform a number of ...
400 meter dash	4/17/2008
Q: I run the 400 in 60 seconds and I'm trying to figure if I could make a career. I'm a 16 year old ... A: Your time is quite good and is certainly an indication of something, but a career is not solely ...
i have the best form	4/12/2008
Q: my name is marquis and i run track for milwaukee custer high school. i have a problem with the 110 ... A: Marquis Your recognition of the importance of the race between the hurdles is very astute. You are ...
Discus Throws	4/11/2008
Q: While throwing the discus are you allowed to start the throw with one foot outside of the ring and ... A: I believe that I have a clue about where this form was suggested to you. As a training technique ...
long/triple jump	4/10/2008
Q: im a fresman and i Have been doing long for a month and triple for about a week but so far my long ... A: Trevor It will be unwelcome news, but I do not know of anyone who gets "better" at a sport "ASAP". ...
Starters	4/8/2008
Q: What is the correct position for the starter's non-gun hand, straight out in front of him, or off to ... A: Bobby DeSantis: There is not proper hand for the gun to be carries in. I change back and forth ...
long jump	4/6/2008
Q: i am freshman this year and it is my first year in track and my coach wanted me to try lony jump so ... A: Loren: Coaching field events, probably any sport, only works when the athlete can be observed by ...
timing running events	4/5/2008
Q: I coach at the middle school level. Some schools we travel to time by lanes and some time by place. ... A: Mike: Most of us use timing watches which can time successive finishes and hold them all in order ...
positions in 4x4 relay	4/4/2008
Q: I think the fastest runeer in the relay should be the last leg. My sons coach says it is the second ... A: I thought this an interesting question so I have been researching the approach that various coaches ...
split timing	4/1/2008
Q: Re: Timing splits in the 4x400, would I generally time the baton as it crosses the finish line each ... A: BILL Timing splits for record can only be accepted on the first lap runner. All others are ...
long jump	3/27/2008
Q: I'm doing a science project on how increasing the running or starting distance can affect your long ... A: Jennifer: Since you are looking for help with a research project and ask for a research report take ...
200 metre track markings	3/25/2008
Q: on a 200 metre track what are the measurments for starting lines ANSWER: Robert: I do not ... A: Robert: Marking staggers on a track with pronounced arcs should be done by an engineer and not out ...
starter sleeve	3/25/2008
Q: Which arm does the starter sleeve go on? A: Kenny: The purpose of the starter sleeve is to help timers and runners see the gun when it is ...
4 x 200	3/24/2008
Q: First thank you for all the information you have given me so far. My first meet is April 10, and I ... A: Bill: The track is assumed to be correctly marked and the staggers actually are very, very close to ...
track distance	3/21/2008
Q: I walk on a high school track ( one mile w/ 6 lanes). I walk 20 laps beginning on lane #1 and ... A: Jimmy: I assume that you are walking on a 400 meter track. Each laps on the track in any one lane ...
400m starting points	3/19/2008
Q: Can you tell me where the 400m dash for high school starts (at the white stagger line, or at the ... A: Davis: In all of the high school meets of which I am familiar, the dash is run in lanes and the ...
Ref/starter rushing runners	3/16/2008
Q: During one of my preliminaries, one of the starter refs completely rushed the runners. The ref ... A: Jonathon: Mistakes happen and the philosophy behind the organization of a meet or a championship is ...
Couple of your answers?	3/15/2008
Q: Dick, I am very surprised at a couple of your answers to some questions. One, you "calculated" ... A: Tommy: Thank you for the correction. It quite slipped my calculations since I was thinking in a ...
Triple jump	3/14/2008
Q: From where to where do the measurements take place on the triple jump? A: All horizontal jumps are measured the same (as with throws). The zero point is at the closest ...
Timing relay events	3/14/2008
Q: Is there an official or universal method for determining where to catch the splits in a relay event? ... A: Generally speaking officials do not time anything but finishes. Practically all coaches time splits ...
Hearing protection. Recalling a rece.	3/14/2008
Q: I have two questions. First what kind of hearing protection do you recommend for a starter? ... A: Bill Most track and field suppliers offer complete starter kits and a pair of muffs commonly used ...
Throwing and my coach	3/11/2008
Q: This morning i went in and was talking to coach about this years throwing season... in JH i placed ... A: Kat: I cannot speak for your coach nor can I change her policies. On the other hand your Mother is ...
The 200m sprint	3/10/2008
Q: I am a 15 yr old sprinter on my high school track team. I currently run about a 26-27.66 in the ... A: Many runners have written about how they might improve performance on line. Let us look at how ...
400m	3/10/2008
Q: I am currently running the 400m for track. My first 300m are okay, yet I kinda start dying out in ... A: Many runners have written about how they could improve performance online. Let us look at how ...
track and field	3/8/2008
Q: hi i am in middle school track and i am doing the 800m i want to ask you what is a good time for ... A: Jessica: Your time in the 800 is a good time. To do any sport well you have to start at the ...
track shoes	3/4/2008
Q: We live in a rural area, which makes it difficult to purchase track shoes locally. We usually ... A: Shelley: I apologize. I am told that my answer was not sent, as I thought, and your question has ...
times	3/4/2008
Q: hey I am a freshman at elsinore highschool for track and cross country I recently run a 5:15-5:10 ... A: Raymond: The best you can do is a good time. Each day work on making it a little bit faster and ...
first year coach	3/3/2008
Q: I am a first year coach at a small high school in Missouri. I ran track in high school(about 11 ... A: Frank: There are so many species of athletes, especially in high school, that I know of no single ...
length of track	3/3/2008
Q: What would the length of a track be if I wanted to calculate it into miles? A: Heather: Tracks can come in any size, but the general distance is either 400, 440 yards or 400 ...
Triple Jump	3/1/2008
Q: Mr. Howland: I need to ask a few questions about my triple jump performances. First a little about ... A: Marc: This question is also a topic about which I am not any kind of expert. However, I did find a ...
improving my times	3/1/2008
Q: i run mainly sprints from the 55m dash to the 400m dash. I would really like to improve my times in ... A: Steven: I hope that you have a coach who can observe you in your entire race from blocks to finish. ...
Triple Jump	3/1/2008
Q: Mr. Howland: I need to ask a few questions about my triple jump performances. First a little about ... A: You have elements in your body and record to date which would make you a good athlete in almost any ...
shot put and discus playing fields	2/28/2008
Q: what are the measurements of the shot put and the discus playing field? A: Pius: There are no dimensions for the field into which the discus and the shot put are thrown. A ...
can i still run?	2/21/2008
Q: i used to be a fast sprinter in high school. the best in my school. i have not performed in any ... A: Kay: There is no real answer to your question since everyone is unique in every respect. Can you ...
Getting Faster ???	2/20/2008
Q: My daughter is 13 years old. This is her first time running track and feild. She is running the 400 ... A: Mr. Hardy: Running track is not merely a matter of speed, but rather a coordinated progressive ...
high school racewalk	2/19/2008
Q: When an event such as the race walk is not addressed in the NFHS rule book, is there anything that ... A: Rebecca: Your question asks about "High School Race walk" which, as far as I know or have ever ...
First year as a starter.	2/18/2008
Q: This will be my first spring as a track starter, so I will take any tips you may have. My question ... A: In New England, at least Western Massachusetts, all officials at high school meets usually officiate ...
400m Indoor (200m track)	2/15/2008
Q: I have been able to understand the concepts of running a good outdoor 400, but i don't know how to ... A: Eric, I am not a coach although I have been involved in track for many years and pick up many ...
Track training for 12-13yr olds	2/12/2008
Q: We will be starting our Club track season in about a month time and would like to start training my ... A: Robert: I am not a coach, but an official. Since youngsters grow in different ways I would be ...
discuss dimentions	2/11/2008
Q: I go to a small private school in Ohio. Last year I played baseball for my freshman year but this ... A: Ryan: It sounds as though you have a good start on the throwing events in field. The information ...
track and field	1/30/2008
Q: how many different events are there in track A: Tyler: I am sure that there are numbers which at least generally answer your question, but without ...
Shot Put	1/25/2008
Q: I am a pretty big kid, about 280. I know I have the potential to throw very far, but i cant stay low ... A: Scott: I am an official and not a coach, as my summary reports. I regard "Bigger, Faster, ...
discus weights	1/25/2008
Q: mr howland ive already asked this question once. what is the weight for a 13 yr old in discus? i ... A: Alexandra: I reviewed the discus weight specified for USA Track Youth (13 year olds) and the discus ...
Shot Put	1/24/2008
Q: I am a pretty big kid, about 280. I know I have the potential to throw very far, but i cant stay low ... A: I do not believe that abstract coaching is wise or safe. We are each discreet humans and without ...
Shot Put	1/24/2008
Q: I am a pretty big kid, about 280. I know I have the potential to throw very far, but i cant stay low ... A: Scott: I think the answer is not directly related to shot put, but a general suggestion. There are ...
Throwing forms	1/15/2008
Q: This is my first year coaching track and I need some help with my discus and shot put throwers. Can ... A: I do not feel comfortable trying to tell a coach details about programs that may or may not be ...
50 Yard Dash 9 year old	1/15/2008
Q: I have a nine year old son, he has been timed in the 50 yard dash @ 7.6 second, I am not sure if ... A: I do not believe that there is an objective and reliable standard for times by a young man of your ...
400 meters	1/13/2008
Q: I had an torn acl when i was in 11th and i had my surgery in December. and i will be able to jog in ... A: Ankit: I guess you asked the right person. When I was fifteen I tore my acl and it was not allowed ...
triple jump	1/9/2008
Q: how is triple jump relateded to fitness and why it is important to participate in this activity? A: Cindy: Triple jump and its relationship to fitness is unique to the individual. There is no ...
track and field	1/7/2008
Q: whowhy invented track and field? A: This is an interesting question since there are really many possibilities. I suppose that about the ...
100m sprinting	1/7/2008
Q: I have been told that I am a fast runner, and was wondering if i would be good enough to join a ... A: Daniel: There is never a reason why a healthy person cannot improve a performance in sport or life ...
ligament injury???	1/1/2008
Q: This is my first year doing track (im in high school). It's hard, but i love it. About a week before ... A: I am most assuredly not a physician or qualified to give you the kind of advice you need about ...
Discus and Shot Put	1/1/2008
Q: 46m) and can throw the 4kg shot put 44 feet (approx 13.50m). Would you recommend weight training at ... A: Jayde: Your brother sounds like a person with many athletic options and perhaps young to make a ...
100m dash	12/29/2007
Q: What is a good 100m dash time for a 14 year old female? A: Your time is a good time for a fourteen year old girl. If you never run the 100m again, it will be ...
preparing for distance track (400m maybe)	12/23/2007
Q: Our actual practices which are really just conditioning start January 2nd I think. I was just ... A: Mark: People are different and no one can be absolutely sure of what someone else finds difficult ...
college	12/20/2007
Q: what college has a good track program. A: Ailikepie: "Good" is a subjective term which asks, "By what criteria?" Some colleges are excellent ...
sprint	12/19/2007
Q: I am 15yr old sophomre in Track the past years i have ran the 400 and 4x4. I want to make it to ... A: Dara: This is a question for a coach. No person who knows running and track can suggest any ...
Shot Put	12/17/2007
Q: I am currently a senior in high school and I am looking for workouts to improve the distance on my ... A: Thomas: I am not a coach, so understand that I can answer your question from a general background ...
Goal times for the 100,200,300,400 meters runs	12/17/2007
Q: I am a 17 year old freshman in college and wouldlike to get back into track, I am 5'10 and have long ... A: Danielle: Speed is something that is relative to age, gender, state (or nation, or league or ...
"Arms"	12/16/2007
Q: My left arm get tight at the last 50 t0 75 of a race and I ell fine from the starting point to this ... A: Brittany: Running is a very tough sport on many parts of one's body, particularly those that bear ...
High School track	12/15/2007
Q: I am planning to join the team as a runner and the thought of a 1 mile at near sprint speed makes me ... A: Kevin: Based on the information you supply, I do not think that you are in a good position to start ...
3200m	12/7/2007
Q: In a few weeks track and field try outs will be held. I'm very sure i will make the distance team ... A: Sean: All letters are local, to paraphrase a great politician. Records and letters are all part of ...
coming off injury to be in shape	12/7/2007
Q: well i got hurt tearing my hip muscle and i am feeling okay now because i been resting .Since i been ... A: Neal: After an injury to structural body parts, recovery and returning to vigorous use of the ...
long jump pit	12/6/2007
Q: i am the parent of a son who is involved in track and field at his high school which is only four ... A: Kellie: If I were to undertake this project, I would contact a reputable track and field supply ...
spike plates	12/2/2007
Q: I am doing indoor track this season, and my coaches told me if I am going to get spikes, that they ... A: Will: The only obvious way to determine any feature is to ask the manufacturer or vendor. Since ...
Track and Field	12/1/2007
Q: I'm 17 years old and I have done out door track for two years now. Just this year I decided to ... A: Melissa: You have many issues which should be answered by a variety of professionals, and very ...
take off boards	11/30/2007
Q: Are take off boards required for lj and tj or can the take off points simple be markings on the ... A: Alan: Take off boards are desirable and at top level competitions they are usually established and ...
RUNNING AGAIN	11/5/2007
Q: I'M NOW 21 YEARS OLD AND I HAVEN'T RAN SINCE I WAS 18 DUE TO PREGNANCY. I'M TRYING TO GET BACK INTO ... A: Tisha: I would rely upon the coach you have found to give you a program suited to you, your body, ...
jumping form question	11/4/2007
Q: When triple jumping, do you land heel-toe during each hop, or do you land flat-footed? Do you claw ... A: Mark: I think that I know why coaches, online and camp coaches have contradicting answers. There ...
starting a program	11/1/2007
Q: i am trying to start a track program by this coming spring and am wondering if you have any advice? ... A: Addison: I suggest that you begin by defining the program you are considering, not as you see it ...
Estimated Earnings	10/29/2007
Q: I also run club track for Together Elite we were at the Junior Olympics and Nationals and we won ... A: Dawnville: I am pretty sure that such a figure cannot be estimated before an athlete has begun to ...
track	10/28/2007
Q: Does the NFHS require that a track be 440 or can it be smaller. Our high school in western ... A: Jim There is no specification or limit for the size of a track in any rule book I know. Most are ...
Race Tracks	10/16/2007
Q: The usual rubber race track is made such that the runners run in an anti-clockwise direction. Is ... A: Warfer: I apologize for the delay in sending your answer, but it required a bit of research and I ...
track and field	10/16/2007
Q: What are the rules and regulations in the events in track and field A: Noelyne: In a sense the rules for track and field are whatever you choose. You can make up your ...
Triple Jump	9/27/2007
Q: When and who was the first female Triple jumper? A: Gary: I am sorry that I cannot help you with this as it is history more than track and field. More ...
High School track dimensions	9/23/2007
Q: Our county has just completed construction of a county park with a regulation Babe Ruth regulation ... A: Robert: There is no fixed rule about size of ovals used for track in most American High Schools ...
running in lane 5 of a 400 meter track	9/18/2007
Q: If I run 4 laps in lane 5 of 400 meter track how far is this? If I was to run a mile in lane 5 of a ... A: Rob: The architecture of each track is essentially unique. To measure the difference in lane five ...
Relay history	9/18/2007
Q: this is a random question - why are the dimensions for the relay baton what they are. Who decided ... A: Ellisa: I confess that I could research this topic to try to answer it. However, I do not think ...
Number of events	9/11/2007
Q: How many official events are there in track and field? (on the high school, college, and ... A: Leigh: Events and schedules for track and field vary with schools, rules, hosts, tournament ...
tracks history	9/4/2007
Q: i need to know how track and field started, who started it and who won the first event. can you ... A: Jordan: No I can't. When man stood up on two feet and began to move, the first track athlete was ...
long jump	9/4/2007
Q: how many officials will i need for long jump? what are the rules of long jump? what wrong doings ... A: Jacqui: Please take a look at the site I reference: ...
Sprinting	9/2/2007
Q: I'm currently a sophomore in high school and have been playing basketball for years and football for ... A: The addition of or change to track and field in your physical focus is a good one. Nearly one ...
100/200m Training	8/30/2007
Q: A: Kirk: There are various published drills and routines for general use which you can find on Google ...
athletic track!	8/28/2007
Q: though the athletic track is circular,the radius of the outermost track must be the biggest one and ... A: Manu: You are right. The periphery of the inside lane of the track is shorter than for each ...
athletic tracks measure........	8/28/2007
Q: when the race starts in the circular track of measure 800m why does the runner from the outermost ... A: Anuj: The track in an oval which means that as with any circular structure, the periphery is longer ...
Track	8/28/2007
Q: People have told me if you want to do better in 100 and 200, you have to run 400 to increase your ... A: Chi-chi: You ask good questions which only a coach watching you run, and train (and knowing ...
Triple Jump Boards	8/25/2007
Q: just wondering, how far apart are triple jump boards on the runway track? A: Matt: In my career I have not been aware of a rule specific limit or placement of triple jump ...
Long Jump Pit measurements	8/24/2007
Q: I'm trying to make my own long jump pit in my backyard. what is the minimum depth to avoid any ... A: Pwter: Your safety and future depend upon controlling and minimizing the risk of serious injury. ...
Jumping and Squats	8/24/2007
Q: how far should i go down on squats, if I'm planning to LJ and TJ. I know that parallel and deep ... A: Pwter You need to get the help of a professional trainer or physical therapist who can observe you, ...
100m dash	8/20/2007
Q: i am 15 yr old freshmen, is a 10.7 100m dash time fast? A: William: A quick review of top 100m times for high school athletes list very competitive times for ...
officiating	8/20/2007
Q: My friend came in third for the 200m to years in a row but he clearly came him third. His dad even ... A: I have no explanation for electronic errors in the mechanics nor in interpretations. The only ...
track length	8/20/2007
Q: i walk at the high school every night. i walk each of the 6 lanes once from outside to inside.i an ... A: Bob: Step one is to determine the length of lane one, meters or yards (or something else). This ...
Running road races during season	8/15/2007
Q: Does running road races during cross country season violate any rules? A: Hannah: Rules which limit competition and seasons of sport and practice etc., or organizations that ...
Hand time vs Electronic time	8/14/2007
Q: Can you tell me what is the conversion from hand time (stop watch) to electronic time? A: Eric: The conversion is taken in this way: hand held time shall first be rounded up to the slower ...
Ankle Weights	8/11/2007
Q: Age:15 100m:12.75 Track:4 years Would running with ankle weights help with your jumping and ... A: The answer is the same as the answer to your other question. Coaches and trainers can help you ...
Long jump and stretching	8/11/2007
Q: 1. Which is better, the Hitch-kick or Hang style and would it help me go farther. Grade 9 and my PB ... A: "Better" is not a word which has much use in athletics, particularly track and field. Track and ...
track and field meets	8/9/2007
Q: I was wondering how many officials and volunteers are needed for 1) track events 2) shot put 3) ... A: A fair meet can be run and judged with one official and the help of dependable volunteers, coaches, ...
Offseason Workout for Sprinters	7/30/2007
Q: What is an offseason workout for sprinters that I can do to hopefully get faster in the spring of ... A: Josh: No program can be proposed without knowing a great deal about the athlete, his or her goals, ...
1/4 mile track	7/26/2007
Q: If the inside of a track is 1/4 mile long on the inside lane, how long is the outside lane? I want ... A: Patti: I am sure it is not intentional, but you do not have enough information to make a fair guess ...
elastic bands	7/20/2007
Q: Mr.Howland, I am 13 and looking to gain speed in sprinting. I was wondering if elastic bands will ... A: David: Sprinting, running, hurdling all involve considerable stress on important muscles, ligaments ...
claulating distance on a circular track	7/17/2007
Q: I recently have been jogging at the circular outdoor track at my local high school and I am trying ... A: Ed: Every track is unique. Accepting your figures and track configuration, the inside lane from ...
timing device	7/16/2007
Q: I have seen timing devices at various HS meets that start with the 'gun', then 6 people click the ... A: I believe that I have answered this question as well as I can. However your question remains on my ...
field event rules	7/13/2007
Q: Hi I need some rules that can help tell officials how to measure field events at an athletics ... A: Louise: I am assuming that the carnival is not a sanctioned event with specific rules since rules ...
Track Spikes	7/13/2007
Q: I was wondering about how many track meets should you use your spikes at the bottom of the shoe ... A: Ari: Use and durability of track spikes depends upon the spike and how it is used. At many meets I ...
Shot put	7/9/2007
Q: I have been out of competition for over 19 years and I was insipred after seeing some athletes' ... A: Tim: Any physical hiatus, including shorter "vacations", from strenuous athletics (or other labor), ...
track practice	6/14/2007
Q: I want your opinion on how you would set up track practice for 7th and 8th grades ? Also what is ... A: Ed: I am sorry that this may be a slow reply. I was officiating the New England Junior Olympics in ...
track,400 meters	6/14/2007
Q: how can I build up a consistent speed fast enough to keep in the group of the 1st 2nd and 3rd ... A: You raise a very interesting coaching question which I suspect requires a very professional ...
Improve time in 400m and 200m	6/11/2007
Q: I am a 13 year old boy that runs the 200 in 26 and the 400 in 1:01. We have a big schedule with a ... A: Sean: I am sorry that I could not answer your question (as well as I can) until I came home from ...
discus	6/9/2007
Q: Whilst i am throwing a Disus do i need to wear any pacific shoes or spikes to keep my grip firmly on ... A: Within some limits, most track and field dress codes have to do with safety and identification ...
Track Dimensions	6/7/2007
Q: Where can I find track dimensions in terms of the length, width and radius of the two semi circles. ... A: Brian: Any official track and field rule book has a section, usually in the front, setting forth ...
Triple Jump	5/29/2007
Q: This is my second year at track but my first year doing triple jump. I am also on the relay team and ... A: Brittany: I do not condone any athlete "practicing" or working on improving performance "on the ...
triple jump question	5/27/2007
Q: I've always been wondering..but do women or men usually jump farther in triple jump? And for a 14 ... A: Heather: Men and women both triple jump and in the adolescent years I have seen age equivalent men ...
High Altitude Records?	5/24/2007
Q: Mr. Howland, recently a sprinter in Colorado set a State record in the 100m dash and with that also ... A: I am sorry that I was unclear. I assume that the Colorado interscholastic athletic governing body ...
High Altitude Records?	5/24/2007
Q: Mr. Howland, recently a sprinter in Colorado set a State record in the 100m dash and with that also ... A: Doug: Standards for records and the recognition accorded them, rest mostly in the hands of whomever ...
history of Track Surface	5/19/2007
Q: I can't find this information anywhere and I hope you can help me. When was the first all weather ... A: I am not an engineer, architect nor designer, but I did do some research and I believe that the way ...
Measuring a Mile (US) 400 Meter Track	5/19/2007
Q: How much farther in feet would I have to run on the inside lane of a 400 meter track after I have ... A: I believe that one foot is equal to 0.305 meters; one meter is equal to 3.28 feet. With such a ...
Triple Jump	5/9/2007
Q: I just have to clear things up but if your lead leg is your left then which sequence would you do ... A: To avoid confusion, and being a bit unclear on the emaning of "lead leg" I assume you refer to the ...
High Jump miss	5/9/2007
Q: Just a clarification on a high jump rule. If a jumper attempts a height and skims the bar and the ... A: If the bar falls because of contact by the jumper, it is a failed jump and so counted. Whether the ...
High School Track Spikes	4/29/2007
Q: What is the regulation length for track spikes for high school in Pennsylvania. My daughter is ... A: I do not know of any difference between Pennsylvania and any other state following the NFHS Track ...
shot	4/27/2007
Q: i want to know if distance of 15 meter in shot put with 7.26kg is good. im good at bench press i do ... A: Walid, Hello, I suppose as always, there is no real way to answer your question definitively since ...
sprints	4/18/2007
Q: Wel i higjump alot and i was wunderign if there is anyways i can improve my form or jump higher. ... A: Ashton: The only answer is that there is no answer without studying the athlete, how he or she ...
Highjump and sprints	4/18/2007
Q: Wel i higjump alot and i was wunderign if there is anyways i can improve my form or jump higher. ... A: Ashton: You have a common question for which there is no simple answer. In short there are as many ...
track	4/13/2007
Q: Is 11.8 good for a freshman in track ? A: John: "Freshman" is not a class or uniform size, shape, ability, and experience. Accordingly, ...
How do you do the tripple jump	4/13/2007
Q: I am in high school and the triple jump is a new event this year. What is the technique? Please ... A: Monica: As with all track and field events, special technique and skills need to be learned and ...
officiating oficers in athletics	4/12/2007
Q: what are the officials in athletics called and their correspondent duties? A: Faromika Damilola: I cannot claim knowledge of what all sports call their officials, but I will try ...
shot putt	4/12/2007
Q: In Michigan, what are the correct secort lines for the shot put field. I have an old book, ... A: Linda: I am not familiar with Michigan rules as distinct from the rest of the nation. I suspect ...
track and field	4/4/2007
Q: what is the correct rules of be an timer for track and field i need to know the correct way for ... A: Timers are assigned to time the winner in each event. The number of timers is usually three, but in ...
track	4/4/2007
Q: I love to run track, I am a freshman in high school. And I want ed to know who sponsers the meeting, ... A: Jasmine: I guess you have the question that every young athlete has when taking up a sport and ...
SPIKE LENGTHS	4/4/2007
Q: MY DAUGHTER IS RUNNING TRACK AND RUNS ON BOTH CINDER AND ALL WEATHER TRACKS. I RAN TRACK FOR 7 ... A: I have always understood that the track determined what spikes it would allow under various ...
how many to finals	4/1/2007
Q: I thought you took the same number of athletes to the finals in the field events as you did to the ... A: Carl: I am not familiar with a rule in NFHS or NCAA which requires the formula for finals you ...
High jump	3/28/2007
Q: How good is 5'4" for an 8th grade guy? Im wanting to know if I'm very good or not. A: Austin 5'4" is a good height and you should not be discouraged. I hope you have a coach to help ...
good timing	3/21/2007
Q: I have a 7th grader that just started track. He ran the 100yd dash in 16.0 seconds. Is that a good ... A: A seventh grader would not be at a stage in his career where I would be too concerned with his time ...
Tripple Jump	3/21/2007
Q: yesterday at our school sports day there was a dispute over the landing rules pertaining to the ... A: Kirsty: The landing in the triple jump with one foot or a hand or butt all count. The question is ...
Track spikes or proper shoe for running all weather track for 6 to 8 year olds	3/20/2007
Q: What should my 6 year old be wearing to run the 100m, 60m, & 80m, the occasional 200m on and all ... A: Mo Graff: The answer to this question is a coach question. No one shoe nor spike is "correct" for ...
Get Faster	3/8/2007
Q: i am a junior in high school and i just joined track and i want to do 100 meter. I am pretty average ... A: Alvina: As a junior in high school you have probably grown to a good body for running (or you ...
Workout for Long and triple jumpers	2/13/2007
Q: What workout is good for high school kids that are doing the long jump and triple jump? I have ... A: I am not a coach, but I officiate field events at local to national levels and venues. I can offer ...
shot	1/12/2007
Q: I play shot put from 2 years i am 20 years 114kg weight 1.78m tall my best is 15.80m with 6kg can i ... A: Walid: Everyone can be "good" at something they practice, train and study. Very few can be great ...
triple jump	1/5/2007
Q: facilities & equipment,rules & regulation,official and their duties and the phases in triple jump A: Your question can only be answered in the context of the rules that are used in the event, ...
Back In Shape for competition	12/7/2006
Q: OK prior to me not running for 3 yrs straight ive been training and running track for 14 yrs. I am ... A: Ivan: I think that there is no reason, from a track perspective, that you should not have hope. With ...
Triple Jump Improvements	11/22/2006
Q: I'm a 14 year old freshman. The track season starts in Spring, but I'm already getting ready and ... A: Your certainly seem well-motivated and creative. Your initiative is much like that of the very ...
running	11/15/2006
Q: I was wondering is you could tell me the logic behind using a starting block when running? Also why ... A: Din, Thank you for a good question. To begin with, as conceived by man, running competitively ...
starting blocks..	11/12/2006
Q: I am currently doing a project on how to correctly use the starting blocks in a sprint for my ... A: Mark: Perhaps the reason that there is not a wealth of on line coaching advice for blocks (or most ...
400	9/22/2006
Q: I would like to know what the 400 m runner has to do in training to improve his timming. The boy in ... A: I always recommend that you consult a coach or trained who is a runner and can evaluate the boy as ...
Shot put	9/21/2006
Q: This isnt about training, i just want to know if Shot puts are sold in local stores or do i have to ... A: I do not think that ordinary sports suppliers are likely to carry shot puts which will qualify in ...
5K	9/8/2006
Q: I am interested in running a 5K coming up in a month and a half. I think it would be a good goal to ... A: Kristin: Running road races or any race of any distance should begin with a visit to your doctor ...
starting block placement	9/6/2006
Q: If the start of the race is on the curve,where do you place the blocks? ( I can't believe that this ... A: This may seem simplistic, but wherever the athlete wants them. A start on a normal track is ...
Weight training for shot & discus H.S. athlete	9/2/2006
Q: Where can I find a off season weight training program for a 17 year old boy who throws the discus ... A: I assume that a 17 year old boy who has a "season" and is looking for a program in discus and shot ...
400m	8/6/2006
Q: im a 13 year old secondery student ( from england) i Run for my club and represent my county in u15s ... A: Personal training is a very important and individual subject. Only someone observing you, watching ...
Track design	7/30/2006
Q: I am a teacher and coach at the high school level. My track and field track was finished last year ... A: Mr. Kidd: I referred to the Technical Managers Manual of the USATF national officials association ...
beginner at track	7/24/2006
Q: I'm a junoir and I wanted to know if its to late to start a track career? I have potential, cuz i ... A: I cannot predict how you personally will progress in a running career, nor can I guess what degree ...
Tight shorts in sports	7/4/2006
Q: *Why male athletics especially runner (as I mention) use stretchy shorts (tight underwears)? Is it ... A: As with swimming and other speed sports, less clothing, often bald heads and armpits are widely used ...
Triple Jump	5/24/2006
Q: My son Nick is 16 yrs old, a junior at Moorpark High school, Ca. He won Ventura county and Maramonte ... A: I have no better advice than the coach who knows him and his form. I would refer you to the coach ...
Heat results	5/22/2006
Q: I recently attened a track meet with my two sons. It was an event for fun but the kids take the ... A: Robert: When photographic assistance is used in running, it is possible for two times to be the ...
Traning for the 400 and 3000	5/10/2006
Q: My name is TRacy and I am a Junoir in High School. I am also on my Tracka nd Feild team at school. I ... A: Tracy:I am an official, not a coach. You need to have a coach to watch you as you run and then to ...
Can over exercisin when young affect old age health. About the steel knees	4/11/2006
Q: No. I'm askin if you fell down and broke your knee or did you get the surgery when you were young at ... A: Hermanth: I tore the ACL in 1955 and had the first knee surgery in 1984 which led to a staph ...
Can over exercisin when young affect old age health. About the steel knees	4/10/2006
Q: I always thought your body adapts to the torture you give it.Read an answer about those steel ... A: Hemanth: I do not consult on physical fitness and am not a therapist. When I needed the surgery, ...
Throwing Surface	1/23/2006
Q: I have a quick question about throwing surfaces. This an extremely random question but i hope you ... A: I quite agree with your intuition and experience. I have worked meets where throwing surfaces ...
Hitting Pole	1/11/2006
Q: When i am pole vaulting i have recently been hitting the pole on my stomache and and getting cuts ... A: This question requires that you be observed. Only someone who can see what is happening and make ...
spikes	12/30/2005
Q: should I screw the spikes into my shoe for the 100m dash on a regular outdoor high school track ... A: Use of proper shoes and spikes is first a coach's issue. In addition each track surface is different ...
Indoor vs outdoor times	11/15/2005
Q: I've been looking at indoor and outdoor school records (for my son's college) and notice a quite a ... A: Records can be deceiving as a measure of real comparative value. Indoor and outdoor the conditions ...
track distances	9/17/2005
Q: Our high school track is a recent addition and is open to the public when not in use by the school. ... A: For a variety of reasons each track is different because of design issues. A track fits a space not ...
how to lengthen my strides and work on my top end speed	6/25/2005
Q: Hey Richard im an ahtelete in H.S. and i run track. This year I made it to State but one thing i ... A: John, this is a question which a personal coach has to answer. It is far too specific for any one ...
What's a good Sprint Training for me?	5/29/2005
Q: My body weight is 138lbs, I'm 5'8" tall, at the age of 18, living in the Turks & Caicos Islands. I'm ... A: I am primarily an official of track and do not generally work with athletes. However I do know that ...
womens running shoes	5/9/2005
Q: What is the current best women's running shoe for running the mile? What advice can you give to ... A: Advice for any youngster getting into sport: take it easy, practice within the limits the coach sets ...
What is a "sprint"?	5/7/2005
Q: What, exactly, is a "sprint? If it is a race in which a runner consistantly increases speed, ... A: I suppose as with anything in the English language, it means what it means to you and the person ...
track and field	5/1/2005
Q: I was just wondering what a crossover was as in a track meet. LIke what do you do and how it works. ... A: I do not use or know of general use of the term "crossover" referring to a specific part of track ...
track and field	12/16/2004
Q: How many laps of the track is needed to complete the 10,000 meters please. A: Tracks do not come in uniform distances, but I assume that the most common distances for outdoor ...
Sports	11/28/2004
Q: What is the length of a olympic Running Track? A: In the terms you phrase your question I am not aware of any specific "Olympic" track requirement. ...
lengthening stride	11/27/2004
Q: I am interested in lengthening my stride.I am not into track and field,but I play hockey and soccer. ... A: Barry, you do not specify your age or physical condition. In most cases of more years than hoped ...

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