What is the relay exchange zone?

In 4x100m relay, the baton must be exchanged within a 20m zone (previously 30m before 2017 IAAF rule change). Outgoing runners start up to 10m before the zone. The best teams execute at near-maximum velocity of both runners.

How much can good relay exchanges save?

An ideal relay team can run 4x100m in 1.0-1.5 seconds faster than the sum of individual 100m personal bests, due to runners receiving the baton at close to their maximum velocity before fatigue accumulates.

What is the most common relay exchange error?

Poor timing is the most common issue: the outgoing runner starts too late (baton reaches them at low speed) or too early (incoming runner cannot catch up before the zone ends, causing disqualification).

Sprint Relay Exchange Speed Calculator

Calculate baton exchange zone timing and speed for 4x100m relay, optimizing incoming and outgoing runner speed differential and exchange window position for maximum velocity transfer.

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Sprint Relay Exchange Speed Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the relay exchange zone?

How much can good relay exchanges save?

What is the most common relay exchange error?