This study conducted a comparative kinematic analysis of the best and worst discus performances of the top Men's Discus competitors at the 1996 Olympiad. Video records of the final round of the Men's Discus were filmed from rear and side camera views. The thrower's body data points and 5 circle reference points were digitized, scaled, and smoothed using a control cube consisting of circle and anatomical control points. Kinematic variables of release velocity, projection angle, release height, and movement time were determined for comparison between best and worst attempts. Kinematic comparison found the poor throw by the gold medalist (Riedel) was 2.3% slower at a 38% higher release angle from a 7% lower release height, during a 53% shorter movement time which resulted in a 9% shorter distance. The silver medalist (Dubrovschchik) threw at a 23% higher velocity but at a 25% greater angle from a 6% higher release point during a 30% shorter time period, which traveled a 9% shorter distance. The bronze medalist (Kaptyukh) threw with a 11% slower velocity, at a 11% lower projection angle from a 12% lower height during a 40% shorter movement time producing a 3% shorter distance. A simultaneous side by side analysis was performed reflecting the kinematic alterations between their best and worst throws. Riedel and Kaptyukh developed slower horizontal arm velocities because of high projection angles. The poor throws occurred during shorter movement times which provided less time for elastic energy storage in the arm. Integrated data analysis displaying video, stick figure trajectories and kinematic data were presented to elite throwers at a developmental training camp. (2000 Pre-Olympic Congress, Sports Medicine and Physical Education, International Congress on Sport Science, 7-13 September - Brisbane, Australia 2000)
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