Javelin
This page contains information about the specification used for each age group and gender.
11&12 | 13&14 | 15&16 | 17-19 | Adult | |
Male | 400g | 600g | 700g | 800g | 800g |
Female | 400g | 600g | 600g | 600g | 600g |
Javelin is different from the other three throws. It is made from a runway between 30m and 36½m long by 4m wide. At the end of the runway there is a white line in the shape of an arc of radius 8m. The line is generally referred to as the scratch line.
It is extended for a distance of 75cms where it intersects the parallel of the runway, at right angles to them. The thrower must not pass in front of the extended line after the throw has been made.
The landing area is made by extending the radii of the circle, of which the scratch line is an arc, through it point of intersection with the runway parallels. This encloses a segment of approximately 29 degrees.
The following strict rules apply:
 | The javelin should be held in only one hand, so that the little finger is nearest the point |
| The javelin should be thrown over the shoulder, or upper part of the throwing arm. It must not be slung or hurled |
| At no time after preparing to throw and until the javelin has been discharged into the air may the thrower turn completely round so that their back is toward the landing area |
Rules continue to state that:
| Non-orthodox styles are not permitted |
| If approach run checkmarks are used they must be placed off the runway (similar to the horizontal jumps) |
| The thrower must remain within the boundaries of the approach run |
| The tip of the javelin must strike the ground before any other part of the javelin for the throw to be valid |
Norms
Young people should never throw the javelin without a qualified coach who is used to young athletes, especially in large groups. They should never throw un-supervised.
Safety is paramount. Every other consideration is secondary. If in doubt, do not throw.
Do not used damaged or even slightly damaged implements.
Only throw with the correct weight, or as directed by a qualified coach.
When stored during coaching they should always be stuck into the ground completely vertically and all together. One javelin is taken from the group just before the throw. Throwers should not be permitted to hold their own, or to have "one each". The temptation to play, practice is too great. Javelins should not be stuck into the ground at slanted angles – people will walk into them and both ends are pointed!
The javelin is always carried with the tip downwards alongside the body.
Javelins are always collected when all have been thrown so that there is no danger of a misunderstanding.
When javelins are being used, everyone in the stadium or practice area should be made aware.
Javelin is not normally taught during Winter unless the floodlighting and safety is deemed sufficient by a Senior Coach of the Club. Athletes are not permitted to vary the Club rules on this count.