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The longest track event, the 10000 meter sprint
for men is the litmus test for physical fitness, flexibility, speed
and tenacity. If an athlete lacks in stamina, he will be unable to
perform even if he is a fast runner and agile person.
Debut
The 10000 meter sprint in Olympics has been the part of Olympics
since the 1912 Stockholm Summer Games. After Stockholm Olympics, the
event has appeared in every summer game.
Dominating Country
The sprinters from Finland and the African countries have been the
limelight in the 10000 meter race. Till the 1960s the athletes from
Finland won most medals. However, after that, athletes from African
countries caught them up.
Rules and Regulations
- All the events must be held on track and lane as the rules
set by the International Association of Athletes Federation
(IAAF).
- An IAAF approved automatic watch has to be used for measuring
the time.
- If a runner does not reach the finishing line, he will not be
given any credit. Even if he has performed better than other
athletes out in the middle, he will lose.
- The participants are allowed to use spiked shoes. The tracks
are made of such substance which can deal with spiked shoes.
- The IAAF has specified the radius of the outside lane of the
track. It should not be more than 50 meter.
- A sprinter will be disqualified if he commits two consecutive
mistakes.
- If an athlete is found guilty of obstructing other athletes,
he will attract punishment in the form of disqualification.
- Preliminary heat events will be organized if the number of
athletes exceeds twelve.
Top Performers
Athletes who have done well in this format of athletics are Ilmari
Salminen, Emil Zatopek, Vladimir Kuts, Pyotr Bolotnikov, Paavo
Nurmi, Ville Ritola, Janusz Kusocinski, Brahim Boutayeb, Billy
Mills, Naftali Temu, Lasse Viren, Miruts Yifter, Alberto Cova,
Hannes Kolehmainen, and Khalid Skah. |
