DÜSSELDORF, Germany – World Athletics introduced an experimental change to the long jump at the ISTAF indoor meet, with two-time world champion Malaika Mihambo emerging victorious under the new rule. The new take-off zone, which is 40 centimeters long compared to the traditional 20-centimeter take-off board, aims to reduce fouls and improve momentum for athletes. Mihambo’s 6.87-meter jump on her fourth attempt showcased the effectiveness of the new rule, marking her third win of the year in Germany.
The new rule measures jumps from the athlete’s take-off point using cameras, departing from the traditional method of measuring jumps from the end of the board. This eliminates the need for jumpers to hit the sweet spot on the board for a maximum leap, adding a new dynamic to the competition. While some athletes, like Mihambo and her coach Uli Knapp, support the change for its entertainment value and reduced invalid jumps, many long jumpers are skeptical of the proposed alteration.
Despite concerns from some athletes, the introduction of the new take-off zone at the ISTAF indoor meet received positive feedback from winners like Mihambo. The rule aims to modernize the long jump event and create a more engaging experience for spectators by minimizing errors and enhancing athletes’ performance. With Mihambo’s success at the meet, the potential for further implementation of the new rule in future competitions is a topic of discussion among athletes, coaches, and officials in the world of track and field.
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