Mixed Relays--Good idea?

[gh]

dropped batons/passes at a standstill aren't my idea of fun and entertaining.

We won't even get into the increased injury potential with requirements for rapid changes in acceleration/deceleration.

A great idea when featuring teams who have had time to master the craft. Otherwise, IMHO, a disaster waiting to happen.

Imagine the hew and cry the first time an athlete of note yanked something while performing such a meaningless activity.

[jazzcyclist]

What's wrong with fun and entertaining?

To be clear, I think gh is only criticizing the 4x100 idea.

[mal]

What's wrong with fun and entertaining?

Lets get their offspring out and race them. They seem to be on the track at each meaningful competition.

This is circus stuff. How about chariot racing?

[26mi235]

with W1 x W2 x M1 x M2 there is only one pass from women to men, and since incoming is faster than outgoing, it just gives a bit slower incoming (just do not leave too early as there is less margin). This is NOT harder than men or women alone.

[j-a-m]

A great idea when featuring teams who have had time to master the craft. Otherwise, IMHO, a disaster waiting to happen.

Exactly, 4x1 without adequate preparation is not a good idea; 4x4 is a good idea because the exchanges don't need that much practice and are less likely to cause injuries.

[toyracer]

with W1 x W2 x M1 x M2 there is only one pass from women to men, and since incoming is faster than outgoing, it just gives a bit slower incoming (just do not leave too early as there is less margin). This is NOT harder than men or women alone.

Agreed, 100%. Heck, because of the lower speed differential between incoming woman and outgoing man we might see better exchanges.