ba*ton
What Is The Definition Of Baton In Track & Field?
1. A baton in track and field is a colorful, hollowed cylinder made of metal, wood, or plastic that is passed from one racer to the next in relay races.
What Size Is A Track Baton?
Batons must measure 28-30 cm (11-11.6 in.) in length, approximately 4 cm in diameter (1.5 in.), and weigh at least 50 g (1.7 oz.).
When Is A Baton Used And How Is It Passed?
Olympic relay races that use a baton include the 4x100M and 4x400M. The passing technique utilized differs greatly between the two relays.
In the 4x100M, the speed of the race necessitates a precise, quick pass to fluidly change from one runner to the next. Athletes will almost exclusively pass the baton “blindly,” meaning that the runners must sync up in order to pass the baton.
With the shorter race comes more specifications regarding the baton pass. The baton must be passed from one runner to the next in the specified 20 m; failure to do so will result in disqualification. Dropping the baton will not automatically disqualify a team, but it significantly dampens the chances of winning the race.
In the 4x400M, a small portion of teams might pass the baton blindly, but most will pass while looking to verify success. Due to the length of the race compared to the 4x100M, taking half a second to ensure success is much less likely to hurt the team’s outcome.
Example Of How Baton Is Used In Commentary
1. The U.S. team, once again, completed an improper pass and will therefore be disqualified.
