The distance between last hurdle and finishing line in 400 metres hurdles race is :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (2):
The distance between the last hurdle and the finishing line is a crucial, standardized component of the 400 metres hurdles race track geometry. According to the official rules set by World Athletics, this final segment of the race, often referred to as the 'interval to finish' or 'home stretch' after the tenth hurdle, must be exactly 40 metres. This specific distance ensures that all athletes, regardless of their gender or the hurdle height, face a consistent challenge in their final drive to the finish line. This run-in is where a runner's anaerobic endurance and final sprint capability are most heavily tested after navigating the nine preceding 35-meter hurdle intervals.

The incorrect option is (1), (3), and (4):
The distance of **35 mts** is incorrect because this measurement represents the uniform *interval distance* between the ten hurdles, starting from the first hurdle up to the last one. It is the repeating segment of the race, not the final stretch. The distance of **45 mts** is also incorrect; this is the length of the initial *run-up* from the starting line to the very first hurdle. This longer starting segment allows athletes sufficient space to accelerate and establish their stride pattern before clearing the first obstacle. The value of **42 mts** is not an official or standard measurement for any of the segments in a regulation 400-metre hurdles race. The precise and non-negotiable nature of the 45m-35m-40m sequence is essential for validating records and maintaining fair competition across all international and domestic athletic events.