Why is there water on one side of the hurdles in the Olympics?

Question

Im watching the 3000m race right now, and im seeing the runners jump over a hurdle and behind that hurdle there is water. Why is that water there?

Answer 1

Because that was they way it was... (it was on purpose). Its the event!

Answer 2

I think you mean the steeplechase.

The event derived from equestrian steeplechase where there was normally always a water jump.

Answer 3

It's called the steeplechase.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2065641_compete-...

Answer 4

To cool off their feet?

Answer 5

this event is probably meant to imitate a cross country chase event  but indoors, the water jump is there as a remnant of running across creeks etc.

and according to the rules the competitors must go through the water.

Answer 6

That's the steeplechase race. Its fun running in wet socks !!