The winner of a race in sprint athletics is defined by who crosses the finish line first, usually measured to the hundredth of a second. Timing and technique are crucial in these short-distance events, typically ranging from **60 meters to 400 meters**. Athletes deploy explosive speed and power from the start to finish, emphasizing the importance of sprinting techniques and race strategy. The competitive edge often hinges on reaction time and acceleration, making every moment critical in determining the race outcome.