Track Observation Essay

Jump, throw, and run. These are movements shown throughout a track meet, but if you pay attention closely there is much more that goes on. I observed this event because I am a track athlete and wanted to see how others view the sport I like to play. I viewed the track meet with two different perspectives as a spectator and a competitor. As a spectator, I watched the whole arena versus when I was a competitor, I paid attention to individuals more. I also viewed the actions of coaches, fans, and the event staff within the arena and how they may or may not have an affect on the athletes. Once you enter through the doors of the Birmingham Crossplex, you see the lobby. You see the stairs leading to the second floor where the Olympic size pool is located and a line of three concession stands. Once you turn left to enter the track you are amazed at the size of the arena. On both sides there are bleachers starting from the track to almost the top of the building. The whole track arena is filled with a two-hundred-meter track containing a sixty-meter dash area, two pole vault pits, two long jump pits, a shot put area, and a weight

The coaches try to watch all their athletes as best as they can by moving back and forth on both sides of the track. They make notes about their athletes and keep a timer on them to see the individuals time before others find out. When an athlete completes their event, the coach pulls them over and talks about the positives that happened in the race. Once the athlete is rested the coach elaborates on the overall performance and helps the athlete by pointing out what they could have better to improve for the next race. Competitors and coaches have a closer bond than some may not understand. The coaches help their athletes the best was they can because they like to see their athletes achieve and aim for higher