110 Metres Hurdles

The men’s sprint hurdles event is contested over a distance of 110m. Athletes compete in lanes and start in blocks, negotiating 10 hurdles of 3ft 6in (107cm).

A reaction time – measured by sensors in the starting pistol and on the blocks – of less than 0.1 is deemed a false start and runners will be recalled, with the responsible athlete disqualified.

Once the race is under way there is 13.72m to the first hurdle, 9.14m between hurdles thereafter, and 14.02m from the final hurdle to the finish.

The hurdles are knocked down easily if touched, which allows the athlete to continue the race even if he collides with them. But a runner can be disqualified if he steps out of his designated lane.

The finishing order is determined on time. The event requires speed, agility and precision. At major championships, the format of the men’s 110m hurdles typically consists of heats, semifinals and a final.