London Olympics: Some track events employ remote-controlled cars

LONDON -- They’re not very big, but they certainly are amusing.

In events such as the hammer throw and discus, track and field staff has taken to ferrying the implements back to their throwers by way of remote-controlled cars.

At the 2012 London Olympics, they are using miniature versions of Mini hatchbacks, built to 1/4 scale. According to BMW, each car can carry about 17 pounds, the equivalent of one hammer, one discus or two javelins.

There are three cars working in four-hour shifts, each traveling about 6,000 meters per day. They zip around the infield in circles and dashes.

“The Mini team was thrilled to be given this challenge to develop a vehicle with such an important and high-profile role,” a BMW executive said.

Well, at 1/4 scale, high-profile might be stretching it.

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