relay

• Relay race


  A track-and-field sport consisting of a set number of stages (legs), usually four, each leg run by a different member of a team. The runner finishing one leg is usually required to pass on a baton to the next runner while both are running in a marked exchange zone.

  
• Methods of baton exchange

  • Up-sweep
  • Downsweep
  • Push Pass

  
• Up-sweep


  The incoming runner passes the baton up into the outgoing runner's hand.
• Downsweep


  Receiving arm extended, but hand level is just above hip height.
• Push Pass


  The arm is extended out parallel to the ground and the hand is open with the thumb pointing down.
• Non-visual pass


  The runner who is going to receive the baton will not see the baton placed into his or her hand. Used in 4x100m relays.

  
• Visual pass


  The runner who is going to receive the baton will see the baton being placed in the hand. Used in 4x400m relays.

  
• Exchange Zone


  • An area the width of one lane and 30 meters long where the exchange will occur and the baton must switch hands
  • If the baton is not exchanged from the incoming runner to the outgoing runner within this 30 meter space, the relay will be disqualified
• The baton must be carried by hand. If it is dropped, the runner can freeleave the lane to retrieve the baton as long as the recovery doesn't lessen his or her total running distance. Runners may not wear gloves or place substances on their hands to obtain a better grip on the baton.