Grade 6 Physical And Health Education Athletics:track Events – Non-visual Baton Exchange Down Sweep Method In Relays Notes
Non-visual Baton Exchange — Down Sweep Method
Subject: Physical and Health Education — Athletics: Track Events
Subtopic: Non-visual (blind) baton exchange — Down sweep method
Age group: 11 years (Kenyan school level)
What is the non-visual (blind) down-sweep?
It is a way to pass the baton in relays (for example 4×100) without the outgoing runner looking back. The incoming runner brings the baton to the outgoing runner by sweeping it down into the hand held behind the outgoing runner’s back. This is quick and used in school and competition relays.
Why use it?
- Faster: outgoing runner keeps looking forward and running straight.
- Safer for speed: less slowing or turning of head.
- Common in 4×100 metre races at school meets and county games.
Equipment and marks
Use a smooth baton (plastic) and practice on the lane with the exchange zone marked by cones or lines. In schools, teachers mark where the outgoing runner should start their run-up (coach will show the mark on the track).
Roles: quick summary
- Incoming runner: carries baton, controls speed, gives a short verbal cue (one word) when near exchange zone.
- Outgoing runner: times run, reaches mark, extends hand behind and receives baton without looking back.
Step-by-step: Down-sweep method (simple)
- Start position: Outgoing runner faces forward, stands a little inside the lane, finds their mark on the track where they will begin the run-up.
- Hand position: Outgoing puts their receiving hand behind their back, palm up and fingers together (slightly cupped) with thumb outside. Keep the arm relaxed but ready.
- Incoming approach: Incoming runs straight to the exchange zone holding the baton in their preferred hand.
- Verbal cue: Use one short word (e.g., “Stick”, “Pass”, or a coach’s call). This tells the outgoing when to start and when to expect the baton.
- Down-sweep motion: As the incoming passes the outgoing, they sweep the baton down and slightly forward so the baton slides into the outgoing’s cupped hand behind their back.
- Grip secure: Outgoing closes fingers around the baton and continues running forward without looking back.
- Finish: Once baton is secure, outgoing speeds up and passes the baton on at the next change or finishes their leg.
Simple practice drills (use at school practice)
- Stationary: partners stand face-to-face, outgoing rear hand, practice placing baton down into the hand while standing.
- Walking: walk slowly, practice cue and down-sweep until smooth.
- Jogging: slow jog into exchange zone, practice full motion at reduced speed.
- Full speed with marks: outgoing uses mark for run-up; practice on the track with cones marking the exchange area.
Coach tips for Kenyan school teams
- Start training early — practice makes the timing natural.
- Use the same short cue word for every practice and race.
- Practice both left and right hand passes so runners can swap sides if needed.
- Mark run-up points with chalk or cones during school practice.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Outgoing looking back and slowing down — keep facing forward.
- Poor hand position — set the receiving hand the same every time.
- Missed cue — use one clear short cue and time the run-up.
- Passing outside the marked exchange zone — always pass inside the marked area.
Safety checks before race
- Check baton is smooth and not cracked.
- Agree exact cue word and the run-up mark with your team.
- Warm up well — practice a few slow passes before any race.
Small visual: down-sweep motion
Short checklist for kids (remember)
- Find your mark before the race.
- Use the same short cue every time.
- Outgoing: hand behind, palm up, ready to feel the baton.
- Incoming: sweep down and into the hand, do not slow too early.
Practise safely with your coach or P.E. teacher during school training. Kenyan schools often use this method in inter-house and county meets — start slow, get confident, then run fast!