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An Illustrated History of Javelin

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Changing configurations

Miklos Nemeth (left) and Steve Backley

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Javelin specifications were changed in recent decades for safety reasons when top throwers approached the 100-meter mark. Great Britain's Steve Backley (right, above) holds a "rough-tailed" javelin designed by 1976 Olympic gold medalist Miklos Nemeth of Hungary (left). Backley set a world record with Nemeth's javelin in 1990, but the record was rescinded when the rough-tailed model was banned the following year. Backley went on to win two Olympic silver medals and one bronze.

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