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The 400 meter hurdle for men was introduced in
the Olympics at the 1900 Paris Summer Games. Thereafter the event
has constantly been the part of the Olympics schedule save the 1906
and 1912 Games. Requiring high level fitness and tenacity, the event
is also called 'man-killer event'.
Rules and Regulations
- The runners cannot leave or alter their lanes. Their act of
changing lanes could bring disqualification for them.
- If a sprinter unintentionally knocks down the hurdles on his
way to the finishing line, it is not an offence. However, if his
act is deliberate, he will attract disqualification.
- Width and height of each hurdle is specified by the
International Association of Athletics Federations or the IAAF.
The organization also specified metal and wood that should be
used to make the hurdles.
- The hurdles should be easily adjustable. In different events,
hurdles of various heights have to be used. Therefore, their
height needs to be adjusted for various events.
- Obstructing a competitor's path is strictly prohibited. Any
athlete indulging in such an act will attract instant
disqualification. In such a scenario, a re-run can be ordered by
the referee.
- If an athlete steps out of the track, he stands disqualified.
- If an athlete fails to reach the finishing line, he gets no
credit.
- Only IAAF approved time measurement devices should be used
for measuring the time.
Dominating Country
Athletes from the United States of America or the USA have always
been dominating among the 400 meter hurdle among men.
Top Performers
Some top performers among the athletes in 400 meter hurdle for men
have been John Akii-Bua, David Hemery, Rex Cawley, Charles Moore,
Andre Phillips, Edwin Moses, Glenn Ashby Davis, Volker Beck, Charles
Bacon, Harry Hillman, John Tewksbury, Samuel Matete, Stephane
Diagana, Fabrizio Mori, Roy Cochran, Glenn Hardin, Bob Tisdall,
David Burghlay, Morgan Taylor, Frank Loomis, Felix Sanchez, Angelo
Taylor, Derrick Adkins, Kevin Young, Bershawn Jackson and John
Norton. |
