|
With more than 400,000 athletes in US Programs, and athletes representing
over 140 countries throughout the world, Athletics is Special Olympics' most popular sport. Athletics events combine both running and track
and field competitions.
Special Olympics Athletics events range from the 100 meter dash to the marathon, from hurdles and high jump to the shot put, long jump and
relays. For athletes of lower levels of ability there are walking events and throwing events, and for physically impaired athletes, wheelchair events
and motorized events. Athletes also participate in Unified SportsŪ relays and marathon events.
At the 1995 World Summer Games, over 1,300 athletes from countries around the world competed in Athletics. The marathon was contested for the first time
producing a winning time of 2 hours, 59 minutes and 18 seconds.
Coaching Tip
-
The Shot Put - Leg Drive
Sequence 1 -- Emphasize to your athlete the importance of strong leg drive in making a good put.
Sequence 2 - it is important that the athlete bend the power leg, or same side leg as the hand the shot put is in at
least 90 degrees to achieve maximum power from the start.
Sequence 3 - the athlete should maintain the same shoulder level from the initial push back.
Sequence 4 - stress to the athlete to explode up and out by driving the legs.
Note: Sequences are illustrated in the Athletics Sports Skills Program Guide
Athlete Tip
-
Starting Blocks - The First Step
The first step out of the starting blocks should be powerful and explosive.
To achieve a powerful and explosive first step, drive the knee of the leg in the back pedal out, aiming your foot to land past the
starting line.
To help drive the knee out, push your foot on the front pedal - extending your leg, throw your opposite arm straight out in front of
you, while driving your knee out in the back pedal.
Celebrities
Celebrity athletes who have supported the Special Olympics Athletics Program include Olympians
Carl Lewis, Dwight Stones, Rafer Johnson, Jackie Joyner Kersee and Benita Fitzgerald.
Coaches Resources
International Governing Body:
http://www.iaaf.org
US Governing Body:
http://www.usatf.org
Coaches Athletics Guide
|
