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Javelin or javelin throw is part of the track and field event. A javelin or a spear about 8 feet long is used to throw for maximum distance. The participant runs first within a predetermined area and then throws the javelin.

The IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federation) stated that non-orthodox techniques cannot be used in javelin throw. The participants must hold the javelin at its grip and throw over hands, over the participant’s upper arm or shoulder.

Like other throwing competitions, the participant is not allowed to leave the area until the javelin has landed. The participants throw the javelin towards a sector which has an angle of 28.96 degrees extending outwards from the end of the runway.

Javelin is a part of the men’s decathlon and the women’s heptathlon. In international competitions, men use a javelin between 8 feet 6 inches and 8 feet 10 inches; the women use a javelin between 7 feet 3 inches and 7 feet 7 inches.

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Other Throwing Events

• Shot put — the track and field event where the participants throw a heavy metal ball for maximum distance.
• Hammer throw — an Olympic track and field event in which a heavy weight at the end of a wire is thrown for distance.
• Discus — athletes attempt to throw a heavy disc object far as they can.
• Club Throw — a track and field disabled sports event, the objective is to throw a wooden club as far as possible.
• Softball Throw — a track and field discipline in which you throw the ball as far as possible, mostly used in competitions for disadvantaged groups as a substitute for other technical throwing events.

Related Pages

• Jereed — a traditional Turkish team equestrian sport in which the objective is to throw blunt wooden javelins at players of the opposing team.
• More track and field events
• Complete list of sports
• The Encyclopedia of Sports