Length of Baton in Relay Race is :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (3):
The standard length of the relay baton used in track and field competitions is strictly regulated by World Athletics (formerly the IAAF) to ensure fair play and consistency. The official rule specifies that the baton must be a smooth, hollow tube with a minimum length of 280 millimeters (28 cm) and a maximum length of 300 millimeters (30 cm). This precise measurement is set to provide an adequate surface for the athletes to perform a safe and effective high-speed handover within the exchange zone. A baton that falls outside this range is considered non-compliant with competition rules.

The incorrect option is (1):
The range of 200-250 mm is significantly shorter than the required minimum length for a regulation baton. At this shorter length, the margin for error during the fast-paced baton exchange would be drastically reduced, which would substantially increase the risk of an illegal exchange (passing outside the zone) or dropping the baton altogether. Therefore, this option does not meet the official technical specifications for competitive relay races.

The incorrect option is (2):
Although this range includes the minimum permitted length of 280 mm, it is still an inaccurate representation of the complete official specification. The official rule allows for batons up to 300 mm in length, which this option excludes. As a result, choosing 240-280 mm as the answer would only acknowledge the low end of the permitted scale, missing the larger batons that are also legally used in competition.

The incorrect option is (4):
The range of 300-320 mm is incorrect because it includes lengths that are beyond the maximum limit. The absolute maximum length for a regulation relay baton is 300 mm. Any baton that measures 301 mm or more would violate the technical rules set by World Athletics. Using a baton that is too long, such as 320 mm, would lead to the immediate disqualification of the team in any sanctioned event.