Track And Field

Post date: Apr 02, 2014 7:47:42 PM

by Callie Green

One of the oldest sports, track and field started in 776 BC in ancient Greece.

As for the United States, track and field started in the 1860’s. The Intercollegiate Assosiation of Amature Athletes of America, the nation's first national athlete group, held the first collegiate races in 1873, and in 1888, the Ameateur Athletic Union, which had sponsored the sport for nearly a century, held its first championship.

Track and field events are divided into three categories: running, jumping and throwing events, which were initially only meant for boys, but over the years, girls started to participate in all of them.

There are thirteen different track and field events. The running events include sprints, middle distance, long distance, relays, and hurdling. Jumping events include long jump, triple jump, high jump, and pole vault. Shot put throw, discus throw, javelin throw, and hammer throw are all part of the throwing events.

Students at SBHS join track for many different reasons.

“I joined track because it’s a fun way to stay in shape and be with friends. Cross country is just a summer away and track is helping me get ready for that! I’m also in for the extra challenge it brings!” Zachary Relf (9) said.

Track and field has changed over the years and has allowed both boys and girls to participate in the sport.