If there are 8 or fewer competitor, each get 6 attempts. If there are more, each athlete throws the javelin 3 times, and the 8 with the largest throws makes 3 more attempts. A throw is valid when the javelin touches the ground with the tip first, whether or not it sticks in the ground. Competitors are disqualified if they take more than 1.5 minutes to complete their attempt or leave the throwing area before the javelin lands.