South Canterbury Amateur Athletics Club

Starting Blocks

Starting Blocks may only be used by competitors in the 10 and above Grades.

A competitor in Grade 7 to 11 may use a crouch or standing start for races up to 400m inclusive.

Crouch starts with spiked shoes without blocks WILL NOT be allowed.

A competitor in Grades 12 to 14 must use a crouch start and blocks for races up to 400m inclusive. For 800m, 1500m and walks a standing start will be used.

Starting Procedure Guidelines

(from N.Z.C.A.A. Inc Rules)

60m to 400m races inclusive:

• Assembly Line: Athletes are placed on an assembly line by Starters Assistant (2 metres minimum behind start line).
• On Your Marks: All competitors then move forward to the Start Line.
  1. If using a Standing Start the athlete must address the starting line in a running position. (i.e. one foot forward).
  2. If using a Crouch Start the crouch position is taken up.
• Set: This is called when all competitors are Still in the “On Your Marks” position.
  1. If using a Standing Start, the athlete shall assume their full and final start position with both feet in contact with the ground.
  2. If using a Crouch Start the normal set position is adopted.
• Gun: This will be fired when All the field in Still.
• Break: The first false start will be called on the field and the athlete(s) responsible shall be warned. Any athlete(s) making further false starts shall be disqualified.

800m, 1500m and Walks:

• Assembly Line: Athletes are placed on an Assembly Line by Starters Assistant.
• On Your Marks: All competitors then move forward to the Start Line. A Standing Start is mandatory. The feet Must be placed in the position from which they will “Push Off” when the gun goes.
• Gun: This will be fired when All the field is Still.
• Break: The first false start will be called on the field and the athletes(s) responsible shall be warned. Any athlete(s) making further false starts shall be disqualified.