Question

In a hurdle race, an athlete stumbles over a hurdle and falls. What decision should the lane judge take?

Answer 1

The lane judge only acts if a rules infringement or interference occurred. If the athlete simply stumbles over a hurdle and falls without impeding or being impeded by another competitor, no penalty is imposed and the race is allowed to continue. If the fall was caused by a breach of the hurdle‑clearance rules or if the athlete obstructed/was obstructed, the umpire/lane judge must mark the place, raise a flag and report the matter to the referee for further action (possible disqualification).