What is the weight of the javelin used at the Paris Olympics 2024?

The javelin has been used since prehistoric times in hunting and wars. Human civilization has evolved and now we see it as a sport in the athletics division. During the ancient Olympics, the sport must have been easier but in the modern day, it is one of the most difficult ones. It became part of the Olympics in 1908 in London.

The weight and size of the javelin are decided by the International Association of Athletics Federations. According to the rules, for the men's division in the Paris Olympics 2024, the javelin should weigh a minimum of 800 grams i.e. 1.76 pounds. For women, the javelin must weigh at least 600 grams i.e. 1.32 pounds.

The length also varies for both genders. For men, it should be between 2.6m to 2.7m, and for women, the length should be between 2.2m to 2.3m. The authorities are strict about the specification and no individual is allowed exemptions. The rules are made for a fair judgement on the table and the safety of the athlete is also taken into consideration.

It is pure science when it comes to the specifications. A heavier javelin possesses greater inertia, resisting unwanted wobbling during the athlete's run-up and throw. This allows for more controlled and powerful throws, maximizing the potential distance achieved. The specifications also take care of the safety of the athlete.

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Scoring system and format of javelin throw in Paris Olympics 2024

The scoring system of the sport is basic. It primarily depends on the distance of the throw by the player. As soon as the javelin lands in the landing sector, the judges mark the point of initial contact with a marker or a spike. After that, the distance is measured in a straight line, of the marker to the inside edge of the center point of the throwing arc is measured.

The system of measuring the distance is digitalized now. However, before computers became part of the sport, steel or fiberglass meter tapes were used for the measurements.

The format of the competition depends on the different kinds of sporting events. Generally, there are six rounds and in each round, the players throw the javelin once or get one attempt or trial. If there are fewer than eight athletes in a competition, then everyone will compete in all six rounds. The athlete with the longest throw wins the first prize. If there is a tie, the player with the longest throw in the second chance will win the competition.