How far can an athlete, unrestrained by traditional rules of method,
actually throw the shot, as opposed to putting it with one hand? In order
to answer this question, and no doubt find some interesting throwing
techniques along the way, the Fringe Games will hold what is believed to be
the world's first freestyle shot throw competition. In this challenging new
event, the thrower must stay within the limits of the 7ft diameter circle,
but he or she may use any unassisted method of throwing the shot.
While it is expected that most throwers will opt for some type of
two-handed throw, it is possible that techniques which use the superior
strength of the leg muscles to do the actual throwing may be tried. Apart
from a front of body release, two-handed throwers may use the longer
acceleration afforded by the step back, overhead throw, or the more
difficult over shoulder release with full rotation of the trunk. Qualifying
distances for the Fringe Games in New Zealand will be posted shortly.
An athlete recently described the overhead throw like this; "With the shot
cupped in both hands I hold it up high and then lower it slowly right
down to the ground, curling myself up over it, holding my power coiled up
like a spring. And then I smash out of there - uncurl, unleash
and let it go, just as it lifts me off the ground. I explode out, arms out,
legs out, into a star. It's like slow motion and coming back down I'm
waiting to hear the thunk of the shot as it hits the ground, and it takes a
lot longer than normal."
How far can an athlete, unrestrained by traditional rules of method,
actually throw the shot, as opposed to putting it with one hand? In order
to answer this question, and no doubt find some interesting throwing
techniques along the way, the Fringe Games will hold what is believed to be
the world's first freestyle shot throw competition. In this challenging new
event, the thrower must stay within the limits of the 7ft diameter circle,
but he or she may use any unassisted method of throwing the shot.
While it is expected that most throwers will opt for some type of
two-handed throw, it is possible that techniques which use the superior
strength of the leg muscles to do the actual throwing may be tried. Apart
from a front of body release, two-handed throwers may use the longer
acceleration afforded by the step back, overhead throw, or the more
difficult over shoulder release with full rotation of the trunk. Qualifying
distances for the Fringe Games in New Zealand will be posted shortly.