Relay Day

Relay Day Proposal

The following proposal resulted from a discussion between Bernie Hogan, Peter Marshall and Judy Cooper, during a recent QMAA meet. The discussion highlighted that running relays were enjoyable events that did not attract the participation they deserved due to being "add ons" to the program. At the end of a three-hour program most potential relay runners are spent, and those that do take up the baton cannot give their best as a result. Relays tend also to be difficult to organise when treated as add-ons due to athletes adopting a wait and see attitude. It must be noted though that scheduling relays in this way is far better than not having them at all.

If relay events were given the respect they deserve, the enjoyment and interest derived from them may increase. The way to achieve this is to run dedicated relay programs. Peter Marshall suggested this to Tom Hishon who indicated support for the idea. Tom also commented that relays appealed to the Gold Coast based runners and that they might like to take on teams from the North (Brisbane area).

Thoughts from Greg Potts
Yep some great feedback on this one. After speaking Jenny Kirby at the Gold Coast Meet on the weekend, both thought a dedicated relay day was a great idea. AS mainly sprinters are involved in relays (i.e. relays are normally 4X100 or 4X400), a dedicated day should also include Field events and a 1500m and 5000m fto cover for your long distance runners and field specialists.

So early run your 5000m, 1500m , Field, Later run your relays.

Of course we could look at mixed relays, medley relay (100, 200, 400 and 800m runner) etc

That way teams can either have fun and participate in relays and the more serious teams can have a descent crack at records. Maybe split relays into 'serious " 4X100 4X400 Men /Women "Fun" mixed 4x100 and medley?

What are Your thoughts

Email webmaster@mastersathletics.com.au to have your say.
Download the Full Proposal