Rules and Regulations
In 400 meter hurdle race for women event in the Olympics, rules and regulations of the International Association of Athletics Federations or IAAF are imposed.
- IAAF approved devices should be used for measuring the time taken by the athletes to reach the finishing the line.
- Length, breadth and weight of each hurdle are in accordance with the specifications of the IAAF.
- All hurdles used in Olympics have to be made of metal.
- Top bar of the hurdle has to be made of wood.
- White and black color is painted on top bar of each hurdle.
- The hurdles must have the capability to be adjusted in different heights for various events.
- If an athlete unintentionally knocks down the hurdles during the race, it is not considered an offence. It is an offence only when the act is intentional.
- An athlete is not allowed to obstruct the way of her competitor in any circumstances. If she does so, she is instantly disqualified.
- If an athlete steps out of the track, she is out of the competition.
- If a sprinter fails to reach the finishing line, she receives no credit.
Top performers in 400 meter hurdle for women are Nawal El Moutawakel, Ionela Tirlea-Manolache, Kim Batten, Sandra Farmer-Patrick, Fani Halkia, Irina Privalova, Deon Hemmings, Sally Gunnell, Debbie Flintoff-King, Tatyana Ledovskaya, Judi Brown, Tetiana Tereschuk-Antipova, Nezha Bidouane, Tonja Buford-Bailey and Janeene Vickers.
