Javelin Throw

The javelin throw is an exciting track and field event. A javelin is a long, thin spear that is light enough to throw far. Athletes run down a track and throw the javelin as hard as they can. The one who throws the farthest is the winner.

How to Throw

The athlete holds the javelin near the middle and runs down a track. At the right moment, they pull back their arm and throw. They must stop before a line or their throw won't count. The javelin must land with its tip first.

An ancient Greek cup painted with an athlete throwing a javelin.
An ancient Greek cup painted with an athlete throwing a javelin. (Mark Landon (user:Choliamb) / Wikimedia Commons)

The Javelin

A men's javelin is about 2.6 meters long. A women's javelin is a little shorter. The javelin has a sharp metal tip on the front. Its shape helps it fly far through the air.

Fun Facts

  • The world record for javelin is over 98 meters.
  • Javelin throwing comes from hunting in ancient times.
  • The javelin is designed to fly like a thin airplane.

Did You Know?

A thrown javelin can fly almost the length of a football field.