Long Jump – Bracken Ridge Little Athletics

How do the athletes work out their run-up?

An athlete can start from anywhere on the runway but try to make sure their run-up is not too long.
A good guide is that the length of an athlete’s run-up should be their age in strides, + or – 2 strides. e.g. U13 may take anywhere between 11 and 15 strides.
If you notice that a child is reaching their maximum speed well before the take-off area, you might suggest that they move their run-up in.

U6 – U7: a rectangle of sand or a mat (1m x ½m).
U8 – U10: a rectangle of sand or a mat (1m x ½m).
U11 – U17: a board or mat (1.22m x 20cm)
The take-off area should be setup (not less than) 1m back from the edge of the pit. Allowances may be made for U6 athletes to be closer to the pit, but no less than 50 cm.

If an athlete’s foot goes over the front edge of the take-off area.
If the athlete takes off from the board or mat with two feet.
If the athlete after landing, walks back through the sand towards the take-off area.
If any sort of somersault is used.

U6 – U10 (with foot mark): Measurement is taken from the front of the foot imprint made in the take-off area, to the closest landing mark in the pit.
U6 – U10 (with no foot mark): If the athlete takes off from behind the nominated take-off area, measurement is taken from the back of the nominated take-off area, to the closest landing mark in the pit. The measurement must be taken perpendicular to the take-off line or its extension.
U11 – U17: Whether the athlete takes off on or before the take-off board, measurement is from the front of board area to the closest landing mark in the pit. The measurement must be taken perpendicular to the take-off line or its extension.
The zero end of the tape is placed where the athlete lands.

The pit must be dug out and be clear and free of debris and should be raked through, prior to competition.
The take-off area should be dry and flat.
Rake the pit after every jump.

Have younger athletes (U6-U10) run in from a set marker.
For younger athletes, have the athletes lined up on (or beside) the runway ready to go.
For large groups, allow athletes to have 2 jumps rather than 3.
Have different coloured tape pieces cut up before the competition starts (for older athletes to mark their run-ups).