Electronic Measurement in the Horizontal Jumps – Mark Heckel – 2010 - Page 3
When you are setting up the beam, ideally, it should allow for the spotting
laser to be able to travel as far back as the leading edge of the pit nearest
to the take-off board. Since any attempt in which the athlete makes the
land area, without otherwise committing a foul, is considered a legal
attempt, it must be measured. If the spotting laser cannot be pulled back
far enough (close enough) to the edge of the pit, an alternative method of
measurement will be required for those jumps.
In general, the beam should be level both in the direction of the landing
area, and perpendicular to the landing area. It should be placed a minimum
of 24” to 30” from the nearest edge of the landing area. You may need to
use shims to level the beam, or the built in leveling mechanism on the
beam. In addition, you may need sandbags or other stable weight to keep
the bases from shifting.
Once the beam has been placed and leveled, you should take at least two
(2) sample measurements to calibrate the measuring device. It is
recommended that these two measurements be around the minimum and
maximum distances that are anticipated during the competition.
Using the already in place steel tape, align the marking stake at one of the
marks. Note the distance on the steel tape (for example, 4.50m). Using the
spotting laser, align it with the edge of the white stripe on the marking
stake that is closest to the take-off board.
