Relay race
A relay race is a track and field sprinting event in which teams of 4 sprinters run a pre-set distance carrying a baton before passing it onto the next runner. In athletics, the two standard relays are the 4 x 100 m relay (each athlete runs for 100 m) and the 4 x 400 m relay (each sprinter runs a track lap). The most delicate moment of the race is the passing of the baton, which occurs in the changeover zone. It is 30 m long and is preceded by a 10 m long acceleration (or pre-change-over) zone. The baton can be exchanged within the remaining 20 m. A part from the timing coordination between the two sprinters, the grip is very important in baton passing: if the baton falls the team is disqualified.
