Another newbie question- sheaf

[mike landrich]

Is there a standard size for the sheaf? I want to make a couple and figure I can adjust the weight with a heavier insert, but want the bag size to be what I'd see in a Games.

[piperdbh]

I saw several sheaves up close this past Saturday, and they were all the same size. I don't know exactly what that size is, so I'm not much help. Alan H. can give you the details you're looking for.


Welcome aboard, by the way, from western North Carolina, the greatest place on Earth.

[SteveB]

From the Scottish American Athletic Association Rule Book

6. Sheaf Toss
Standard weights for this event are 16 or 20 pounds for the men, and 12 pounds for the women. Because of the
nature of the implement some variation in the weight is allowed.
a. The sheaf shall be a burlap bag filled with straw, hay, pine needles or rope. It is recommended that two
or three bags be put over each other so that the sheaf will last through the whole competition. The
bag shall not measure more than 36 inches long by 24 inches wide. A bag smaller than this is
recommended. It is recommended that a 16# sheaf be used. If the standards will not reach high enough
for the competition to be completed with a 16# sheaf, then a 20# sheaf should be used.
b. The toss is made using a pitchfork with a 5-foot nominal handle.
c. Any style may be used to toss the sheaf as long as it is deemed safe by the judge.
d. Competitors may bring their own pitchforks but it is understood that any competitor may use any pitchfork
that will be used in the competition.

Slainte

[mike landrich]

Thanks guys. The answer was easy, there is no standard, just a maximum size.