Athletics (British Sports Library)

THE STEEPLECHASE 133 The hurdles must be taken smoothly in the stride with a step-over action and without loss of the proper body angle applicable to running (see section of Chapter Ill dealing with Low Hurdling). It is bad policy to attempt to clear the water jump in one bound. It is possible to do it, of course, but the effort is so great that the subsequent running will be adversely affected. On the other hand, it is equally a mistake to stride over the bushed hurdle in such a ·way that one drops into the deep water immediately beyond it. The best method is to increase the pace as one comes within 10 or 12 yards of the water jump, and to use just so much effort in the clearance jump as will land one into the water about 2 feet from the far edge of the up gradient, the landing being effected with one foot slightly ahead 'Qf the other, so that the weight of the body falling forward will swing one smoothly on into the next stride on to dry turf. Do not, however, make the mistake of landing upon one foot only. This is a gruelling race, and one for which the , athlete must build up his powers of endurance. If, in addition, he can cultivate a finishing sprint of about 120 yards, he should undoubtedly hold a winning hand. ./