Analysis of 800 m results and pacing strategies for female athletes in the Japan Junior High School championships (2021-2024)

This study aims to analyze the results of the female 800 m race in Japan Junior High School Championships from 2021 to 2024, with a focus on the performance of athletes in the preliminary and final rounds, pacing trends, and key factors influencing race outcomes. The data, sourced from official results and video analysis, explores athletes' pacing strategies and their impact on race results. By comparing the race data over four years, the study reveals performance characteristics, strategy differences, and the effect of energy distribution on results. The findings show that a slowdown in the second lap is common in finals, and many athletes tend to overexert themselves during the preliminaries, which affects their performance in the final. Most athletes adopt a positive pacing strategy, where the second lap speed is highly correlated with their final ranking. Athletes who maintain an even pacing strategy tend to perform better overall. This study provides in-depth insights into pacing strategies for junior high school and offers valuable references for coaches and athletes in training and competition.