t. A javelin with the pointed head was necessary for target practice while one with a rounded blunt head was used for a smooth, steady flight. In ancient javelin throwing a leather strap that formed a loop, called a thong, was used to increase the power of the throw because it made the grip more secure. With a rotating motion in its axis that stabilized the javelin in flight, it helped to achieve greater distance.There were two forms to the javelin event which were: throwing the javelin for distance, and throwing it at a predetermined target. When throwing the javelin for distance, the athlete stood at the starting line of the stadium, which enabled room for a couple of steps before throwing. There was an area marked off where the javelin had to land or it was considered invalid. Throwing for distance was a highly skilled sequence of events that started with the athlete first tying the thong tight, and putting his middle index fingers into the loop of the thong. He then pushed the javelin back with his left hand to tighten the thong and to grip the fingers of his right hand. Then, while holding the javelin close to his head, the body turns in the direction of the throw and the run-up starts. He took a few steps before the starting line, pulled his right arm back and turned his body and head to the right. He crossed his right foot in front of the left and drew his left arm back to help the turn. Then bending at the knees slightly, the left leg is stretched out in front of him to stop his movement so he could remain behind the line. The javelin is then thrown over the head in the final position, similar to that of todays athlete.When throwing at a target, the athlete is usually on horseback. While the horse is galloping the rider had to throw the javelin when it was a certain distance from the target. Being on horseback made for an unsteady hand, making this event difficult. A steady eye, a strong hand , and experience o...
