PaceSetter Book

Speed Activities 6

6.7.1 The ‘Outgoing’ Runner The ‘outgoing’ runner holds the hand in which the baton will be received downwards with the arm sloping slightly backwards. An inverted ‘V’ made between the thumb and the fingers will be presented into which the ‘incoming’ runner will place the baton with an upwards motion. It is most important that the ‘V’ is in line with the baton and clearly visible to the ‘incoming’ runner. The ‘outgoing’ runner must focus forward at all times when receiving the baton. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE 6.7.2 The ‘Incoming’ Runner 6.7 Relay Practices Using the Upsweep Pass

It is the responsibility of the ‘incoming’ runner to ensure exchange of the baton takes place as only he or she can see what is actually happening. The ‘incoming’ runner passes the baton firmly into the ‘V’ of the ‘outgoing’ runner’s hand. The hands of both runners should touch, so that as much of the baton as possible is available for the next take-over. 6.7.3 Changing the Baton Hand whilst Running If the method of changing the baton hand whilst running is to be taught, the outgoing runner should change the baton as soon as possible after receiving it. If it is carried out at this point, the young athlete can get into full sprinting action without still having to think about changing the baton hand. There is a hidden value in using this method with young athletes as observation shows that relaxation occurs when changing the baton from one hand to the other hand which is not always an easy skill for sprinters. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE

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