4 × 400 metres relay 4 × 400 metres relay The 4 × 400 metres relay or long relay is an athletics track event in which teams consist of four runners who each complete 400 metres or one lap. It is traditionally the final event of a track meet. At top class events, the first 500 metres is run in lanes. Start lines are thus staggered over a greater distance than in an individual 400 metres race; the runners then typically move to the inside of the track. Relay race runners typically carry a relay baton which they must transfer between teammates. Runners have a
1996 United States Olympic Trials (track and field) 17 in Charlotte, [North Carolina]]. The results of the event determined qualification for the American Olympic team at the 1996 Summer Olympics, held in the same stadium. Provided they had achieved the Olympic "A" standard, the top three athletes gained a place on the Olympic team. In the event that a leading athlete did not hold an "A" standard, or an athlete withdrew, the next highest finishing athlete with an "A" standard was selected instead. Key: 1996 United States Olympic Trials (track and field) The 1996 United States Olympic Trials for track and field were held at Centennial Olympic Stadium