Athletes in Action

THROWING THE JAVELIN-SUMMARY THE javelin is carried with the hand directly above the shoulder and the point directed downwards. The thrower steps off with a high pick-up of the right knee and a brisk cross- body swing of the left arm. Throughout the run the body is inclined forward, the right arm remains still, but the left arm swings as in sprinting. On the last right foot stride before reaching the first check-mark, the right arm draws the javelin back behind the shoulder. As the left foot strikes the check-mark the right arm is extended fully backwards and the thrower springs fonvard from the left foot, so that the right foot lands on the second check-mark. ...\s the right foot lands on the second check-mark the athlete assumes the throwing attitude, by bending the right hand well in behind the head, and the left leg swings fonvard. Just before the left foot touches the ground a violent twist of the shoulders from right to left begins. It is at this stage that the greatest care must be taken not to let the point of the javelin tip up too high, nor the right hand lose its position behind the shoulder. It is necessary to retard the forward movement of the right hand, so that the elbow may lead the throw, which must be made by releasing the javelin when the right hand is vertically above the shoulder. It is fatal to let the throwing hand come out to the right. Both feet should be firmly planted and the left knee locked when the throw is made. The reverse, shown in Figs. 9 and ro, should be made with a full follow through, but must not be hurried. Remember that the reverse is not made until after the javelin has left the hand. !>) 00 ....