How materials effect performance in sports events contrasting: contrasting contributions

The various issues in designing and implementing new sports equipment are discussed, including whether use of new technology will lead to fundamental changes in the sport and cost concerns. The performance of athletes in various sporting events is then reviewed; including, in one case, our equine friends. In an event such as running design/material, has had a minimal effort, while in pole vaulting, javelin throwing and bicycling the effect has been substantial. In events such as gold, tennis and softball/baseball where absolute records are hard to define qualitative improvements have occurred.