Javelin throw
Javelin throw
The javelin that is used in modern international men’s competition
is a spear of wood or metal with a sharp metal point.
It is constructed in accordance with a detailed set of specifications published by World Athletics.
Its overall length must be between 260 cm (102.4 inches) and 270 cm (106.3 inches)
and its weight at least 800 grams (1.8 pounds).
The women’s javelin is somewhat shorter and lighter—between 220 cm (86.6 inches)
and 230 cm (90.6 inches) long and at least 600 grams (1.3 pounds) in weight.
After a short run, the javelin is thrown directly forward with an over-the-shoulder motion
into a 29° sector marked on the field.
It must land point first.
The thrower’s body may not rotate a full turn (360°) before the javelin is released,
and the thrower may not step on or beyond a line at the end of the runway.
Source: Britannica
Javelin throw
When did javelin throwing begin?
There is archaeological evidence that javelins and throwing sticks were already in use
by the last phase of the Lower Paleolithic.
Seven spear-like objects were found in a coal mine in the city of Schöningen, Germany.
Stratigraphic dating indicates that the weapons are about 400,000 years old.
