When a race starts, should a gun be used or a horn to start it?

Answer 1

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Starting pistols are the preferred choice because the noise has a very sharp start to it. The sound it makes is also loud and near-instant across a wide range of sound frequencies, which is why hitting a cymbal or a drum would be less effective (a drum is also far less portable and bulkier than a pistol, and the drum-skins are often not rain resistant).

Bursting a balloon would do the same thing but the sound isn’t loud enough. Horns start quietly before reaching their peak noise, so contestants closest to the horn or those with superior hearing will have an unfair advantage. Top level events have a loudspeaker behind each starting block so distance from the horn would not matter but the slow attack of the noise would still be a problem.

Answer 2

Use the green flag.

Answer 3

Use the horn or a flashlight.

Answer 4

It has been said that in some less salubrious areas of London that there have been many false starts in races when the local drug dealers settle scores.

Answer 5

depends on personal preference or resources.

Answer 6

Why are you asking in Maintenance & Repairs?

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FAIL. Try again. 

Answer 7

A horn.  Contestants and spectators might think there is a gunman and might run for cover if a gun is used.