COMPUTOMARX STEEPLECHASE COURSES

PROBLEMS WITH STEEPLECHASE COURSES

Computomarx Steeplechase Courses were designed to correct the two chief problems in constructing a steeplechase course. These problems are:

• Accurate measurement of the water jump approach and return so that a true 3000 meters is run. Many steeplechase courses are set out using methods which either:
  • measure the approach and return with a wheel
  • drive pins in the track the required distance out from the curb and measure around them with a tape
  • join the water jump to the track with circular arcs which do not join smoothly to the track as discussed below
  The first two methods cannot be done with proper accuracy, and all errors in measurement are multiplied by seven since the water jump is negotiated seven times in the race.
• The joining of the water jump approach and return to the main track such that no abrupt changes in curvature or "corners" are present. Mathematically speaking, this says that the first derivatives of the track and paths to the water jump must be continuous at their junctures. Improper joining of the approach and return paths to the track requires the athletes to slow down and run wide twice each time the water jump is negotiated, a total of fourteen times. Obviously this condition results in slower times for the race.

  COMPUTOMARX SOLUTIONS

  Computomarx Steeplechase Courses solve both of these problems at once by one of three methods.

  • Using portions of ellipses for the water jump approach and return for either interior or exterior water jumps
  • Circular arcs joined by a straight section primarily for interior jumps
  • Extended straightaways with circular arcs of the same radius as that of the main track joining the jump for exterior water jumps.
  Since all three paths can be described by mathematical formulae it is possible to calculate with a computer the length of the paths very precisely. The parameters describing the various path types are chosen so that the two paths join smoothly with the track and water jump. The different types of steeplechase courses have various advantages and disadvantages which must be weighed by the customer. The Computomarx elliptical paths have the most runner friendly curvature and to our eyes are the most aesthetic in appearance, but can take more time to lay out and explain to a certifier.
  Computomarx
  3604 Grant Ct.
  Columbia MO 65203-5800 USA
  (573) 445-6675 (voice and FAX)
  e-mail Computomarx

  Links to sample calculations and drawings

  • Computomarx elliptical segments
  • Circular arcs joined by straight section
  • Extended straightaway and circular arc

  Back to calculations and drawing page

  Back to Home Page