Why are track events not run clockwise when timing is so important?

Answer 1

A track is perfectly symmetrical, so it does not matter whether you are running clockwise or counter-clockwise. A standard was needed, so counter-clockwise was chosen arbitrarily, and it more or less stuck.

There are lots of myths out there about the origin of why the counter-clockwise direction chosen, all of which are probably false but still fun to hear.

The ancient Greeks originally ran clockwise, as is supported by coins and pottery depicting chariot racers running from right to left. We know that the Romans also originally raced clockwise like the Greeks but that changed at some point. A popular legend has it that the Romans followed the ancient Greek traditions of running clockwise until an unlucky chariot racer accidentally hit Emperor Nero in the cheek with a whip. The charioteer was immediately executed by Nero and the next day all races where run the opposite way. While Nero was clearly a nut, there is no archeological evidence to support this story.

Others claim that some Roman emperor changed it so that they would race against time (the opposite direction of a clock).

We may never know the true origin, but we can always speculate..

Answer 2

Because that's how the rule book says they will be run.

If you are going to standardize the rules for running, you have to pick a direction and stick to it.

They could have standardized on running clockwise, but then people would be continually asking "Why are races run clockwise, instead of counter clockwise?"

Answer 3

That's a great question a philosopher would think of asking. I think it is because that's the way it was done in the old Olympia days back in Greece. I guess it's a tradition that stuck.

Answer 4

Its the same distance either way soooo...I don't think it matters. I don't think the horses would be slower or faster either way but it seems to me most track events are run that way.I mean thats how people race...

Answer 5

because most people are stronger with their right foot. Running counter clockwise gives right footed people a slight and I meen slight advantage

Answer 6

I think this is one of the cleverest questions I have come across on Yahoo answers

Answer 7

I did not realise this but now you've mentioned it I think its quite an interseting question. I'm intruiged now to know the proper answer too.
Good luck. Hope someone knows.

Answer 8

Simple really.....they're running AGAINST the clock.

Answer 9

um, they're dum or the timekeepers can't tell which ways clockwise!!!!!!!!

Answer 10

there really is no difference since its going to be the same distance