What may a thrower put down as a marker, and when may they practise?
A · Advanced · The competition · 2 of 5A javelin thrower may use one or two markers, placed beside the runway. Chalk and anything that leaves a lasting mark are not allowed. Practice throws are taken before the event, in the drawn order, under the judges' supervision. Once the competition has begun, the runway, the sector and the javelins may not be used for practice.
How it works
- How many: "An athlete may use one or two markers (supplied or approved by the Organisers) to assist them in their run-up and take-off."
- Where: alongside the runway.
- If none are supplied: the athlete "may use adhesive tape but not chalk or similar substance nor anything which leaves indelible marks".
- Wrong markers: the judges tell the athlete to change or remove them, and remove them if the athlete does not.
- Practice: "At the competition area and before the beginning of the event, each athlete may have practice trials." In the throws they are taken in the drawn order and under the judges' supervision.
- After the start: once the competition has begun, athletes may not practise with implements. They may not use the runway or the ground inside the sector for practice, with or without an implement.
- Wind sock: one or more are placed at the javelin to show the direction and strength of the wind.
- Record marker: a flag or marker may show the existing world record or another record.
Tricky cases
Can a javelin thrower use three markers?
No. One or two.
Can a javelin thrower draw a chalk line where their run-up starts?
No. Chalk, and anything that leaves a mark that cannot be removed, is not allowed. Adhesive tape may be used if markers are not supplied.
Can an athlete take a practice throw into the sector between rounds?
No. Once the competition has begun, implements and the sector may not be used for practice.
How many practice throws does each athlete get?
The rule sets no number. The commentary says it depends on the warm-up time available.
Why the rule exists
A run-up has to be repeated to the stride, so a thrower needs a mark to start from and often one more on the way. Keeping personal markers out of the sector leaves the landing area clear for the judges. Practice stops once the event begins because an implement thrown outside the order of competition is a danger to everyone in the field.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| World Athletics rules | As above | TR 25.1 to 25.4 |
| Shot put, discus and hammer | One marker only, beside the circle | TR 25.3.2 |
| Serious cases | Misuse of markers may be treated as improper conduct | TR 25.3.3 (note) |
| High jump | Markers may be placed on the runway itself | TR 25.3.1 |
From the rule book
World Athletics, Competition and Technical Rules, 2026 Edition, Technical Rules 25.1 to 25.4 with the commentary printed under them. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Athletics Competition and Technical Rules 2026 (PDF).