Grenada’s Lindon Victor won bronze in the Olympic decathlon, showcasing his skill in throwing the discus with a distance of 46 meters. The speed of flying objects at the Games plays a critical role in determining who wins a medal. From the fast-flying badminton birdie to the slow and heavy shot put, each object presents unique challenges for athletes. The badminton birdie, made of 16 goose feathers and weighing less than two-tenths of an ounce, is one of the fastest projectiles at the Olympics. In contrast, the shot put weighs 16 pounds, requiring athletes to throw it over three quarters of a basketball court to win a medal.
The article highlights the importance of an object’s speed in determining the outcome of events at the Olympics. Different objects require different skill sets and strengths from athletes, with speed playing a crucial role in the success of their performances. The speeds of the objects were tracked using a sports radar gun, providing insights into the varying velocities of each projectile. As fans watch the Games, they are encouraged to consider how speed influences the results and to follow The New York Times’ Olympic coverage for more exciting updates and analysis.
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