throwingarea

The throwing area is the designated part of a track and field venue used for events in which athletes propel implements, such as shots, discs, hammers, or javelins, toward a target landing zone. It serves both competition and safety purposes, providing a controlled space for the throw and a clear area for officials to observe, measure, and verify results.

A typical throwing area comprises a throwing circle or runway and a landing sector. The throwing circle is the raised or flat surface from which the implement must be released, while the landing sector marks the anticipated path and landing area for the implement. In many venues, especially for hammer and sometimes discus, protective barriers or cages surround the throwing area to shield spectators and officials from stray throws. For javelin, a long runway leads to a throwing arc that defines the release point.

Event-specific configurations vary. Shot put and hammer use a circle as the release zone, with measurement based on where the implement first lands within the sector. Discus and hammer often involve protective enclosure, whereas javelin relies on a runway and a defined landing sector. Across all events, the area is designed to minimize risk, ensure clear sightlines for officials, and facilitate accurate measurement.

Regulations governing the throwing area are set by governing bodies in athletics and may specify dimensions, surface standards, safety barriers, and measurement procedures. Maintenance and clear signage are important, and access to the area is typically restricted when throws are in progress.