Passing the Baton--by Request

“Passing 'the Baton' ” in a track meet – Mr. Hill, Gridley, IL

Description by Lynn Klopfenstein – GCHS '48!

Mr. Hill was a stickler in passing the baton in a relay race. And, his stickiness certainly paid great dividends in winning the relay races. The task of describing “the pass” is daunting to say the least.

In an 880 yard relay:

“The pass” must be completed within about a 20 yard distance;

Runner #1 starts the race with the baton in the left hand and runs 220 yards;

Runner #2 positions with back to the pole (inside lane marker of the track).

Right arm and hand extended with palm of hand up;

As #1 approaches--#2 turns and runs forward—at the same time looks straight ahead and turns or twists extended arm and hand so that #1 runner can simply lay the baton into the hand of #2. #2, upon receiving the baton in right hand transfers the baton to the left hand, proceeds to run the 2^nd segment—220 yards. This “pass” must be completed within the 20 yards or the team is disqualified.

This method of passing would usually gain a couple of strides on the other runners. Many races were won simply because of gains in passing the baton.

Runner #3 follows the same procedure.

Runner #4 (the Anchor) does likewise but finishes the race. All of the runners are very important; however, The Anchor was ultra significant to catch up if behind and win the race. A runner is very fast if designated to run the Anchor position!

Mr. Hill classified a perfect pass as “Daylight Passing”.   A spectator could see daylight between the hands of the passers.  He would stand, sometimes a great distance away to check on the passing and he would place his hands over his mouth to create--like a horn and yell “DAYLIGHT”. His strong voice could be readily heard a long way off.    (My emotions are about to get away with me thinking about this, 65-70 years later!!!)

A few years ago, the USA Olympic Relay team, described as probably the best ever, botched a baton pass and dropped it. The team procedure of passing the baton was different and the runners did a clumsy pass and dropped it. 'Twas sad to say the least.

A relay race is one of the most exciting event in a track & field meet.  It's fast action; generally, rapid exchanges; multiple participants; baton implications; overall lively nature are an intrigue to behold!!!  Mr. Hill was a very successful coach and teacher.  (It is said:  One year his football team beat Chenoa 169-0 !)

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My Brother Perry submits the following:

 Brother Lynn,

I did a part on this in the Gridley history, "Foundations Strong." You are on target. I would make reference to the "Leadoff man," who was fast and could go out and "get the lead." I forgot the daylight passing phrase, but now well remember it. And the cardinal rule for the runner receiving the pass, don't look back once you turn forward to receive the baton. And quickly put the baton in your left hand. I send baton exchange pictures (in newspapers) each spring to Dave Hill, where the exchange violates the Hill method. One could gain on the opponent(s) during the exchange, and the Hill methods was flawless, if executed correctly, which he insisted on.

Yes, the anchor man was the power runner, to seal the victory.