A centimeter can be the difference between joy and disappointment in athletics. If the official sees where the ball, discus, or hammer really hits, it can be decisive for who comes from the EC as champion.
Criticism against the fact that athletics, which is a sport of the margins, still uses manual measurement is nothing new. But for now, the Swedish discus jumpers Simon Pettersson and Daniel Ståhl have to rely on the eyes of the officials.
— There are certainly variants, then it’s always a matter of cost. When it’s a matter of assessment, it’s not 100 percent every time, it’s something you simply have to live with, says Simon Pettersson.
Simon Pettersson.”Can see to the moon”
Pettersson is positively disposed to developing the measurement so that it becomes more accurate.
— Of course, I think it’s always good to be able to develop the branches, a lot has happened on the material side with measurement, so maybe that’s the next step.
He is supported by colleague Daniel Ståhl.
— Yes, but I think so. If you stand 10 to 20 meters away and see an impact if the discus lands flat or that it cuts and lands on the edge, you look away for half a second then (it could be wrong). We can see the moon with binoculars and in tennis you can see exactly where the ball lands. It is clear that the technology can be developed even more, he says.
“Magical to be here”
On Wednesday, they put their trust in the officials in Munich not looking away at the wrong moment. Then the discus qualifying begins. Both are looking forward to meeting the German audience.
— Athletics is big in Germany and it always has been. It’s magical to be here, says Daniel Ståhl.
Unlike many of the competitors, the Swedes have gotten used to always having a compatriot inside the arenas. Although they focus on their own performance, they have support in each other.
“It’s always an advantage, especially when we train together,” says Simon Pettersson.
Daniel Ståhl.”We are close”
Daniel Ståhl sees it as something positive for more than just the two contestants.
— It is special and fun to have two Swedes on the world market. It is incredibly good for Swedish throwing.
TT: How much does Simon mean to you?
— A lot. He is nice, humble and incredibly professional in what he does. He will only get better so it will be fun to follow his path.
Pettersson about Ståhl:
— We are still close, when we are down in Växjö we train together frequently. It’s always nice to have an extra pair of eyes on you.