The in-field is out of bounds unless you are a competitor or an official in the event in session. This means that, if you are late for your event, you have to walk around the outside. Tedious, but potentially life saving. Remember that most of the implements in the throwing events used to be weapons of war!
Think of others who are competing - don't make a noise near the start or the areas where the field events are taking place.
If you are being lapped, move out into the second or third lane to let the leaders through. If you don't, chances are they won't be saying "Hi" when they pass you. It will be a bit stronger.
Don't ever cross the finishing line unless you are participating in a race. It actually does disrupt the timekeepers and plays havoc on the electronic timing. Be polite to the officials - you need them more than they need you.
Responsibility is the order of the day. If the programme is running behind, don't assume that your event will be late. Organisers usually do their best to keep programmes on time and catch up where they fall behind. If in doubt, ask the meeting organiser.
The steeplechase water jump is not a swimming pool. Similarly, the high jump mats are for landing on, not partying on.
You would look both ways before crossing a road. Do the same on the track - a sprinter might not hit you as hard as a car, but it will still hurt. Remember that tracks are for racing on. If you are warming up, keep in mind that there are races going on and they may be using all the lanes. If you are not racing or waming up, don't stand on the track.
Run The Planet thanks the Western Province Athletics website (www.sportsclubs.uct.ac.za/wpa) for the permission to reprint the article "Track etiquette". The text has been slightly adapted to fit Run The Planet standards. Image © 2005 by Run The Planet.
