This event is one that is very similar to the Olympic style Hammer throwing. The hammer has a lead or steel head with a bamboo or rattan handle affixed through a hole in the head. The shape of the hammer varies from round (like a mini cannonball) to square or bullet shaped. All are legal provided the length does not exceed 50"
There are 2 hammer events. The heavy and light hammers. Women’s heavy hammer is 16lbs. The light hammer is 12lbs. The only difference between the two events is the weight. The style and technique are the same; of course, your light hammer should go a little farther!
Photo credit: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/6897365.stmThe athlete stands behind the trig with her back to the throwing area.
The hammer is placed off to the right side with the hands gripping the handle in a “golf” type grip. The athlete then winds the hammer up from the ground, around the head and releases over the left shoulder. The hips and the body rotate to counterbalance to the hammer, moving in opposition to the hammer head.
The athlete's feet must remain in a fixed position until the hammer is released. You are allowed to rock from heel to toe, but the position of the toe or heal is not allowed to change. Once the hammer is released, your feet can leave their original position.
Special boots with metal toe blades can be worn to keep the feet on the ground and in a fixed position. The blade is dug into the dirt to provide a more stable fixed foot position. However, they are not a necessity.
photo creditHere is one of the sports most famous women - with a fabulous article from Ironminds.
Photo credit:http://www.ironmind.com/ironmind/opencms/archives.html?uri=/Articles/2005/Sep/
No comments:
Post a Comment