To begin a football game, a kicker has to kick off. The football follows the path h(x)=−130x(x−61)

To determine how far the ball will have traveled when it hits the ground, we set the height function \( h(x) \) equal to zero:

\[
0 = -130x(x - 61)
\]

This equation can be solved by factoring:

1. Factor out \(-130\):
\[
0 = -130x(x - 61)
\]

This gives us two potential solutions:

1. \( x = 0 \)
2. \( x - 61 = 0 \) which simplifies to \( x = 61 \)

Thus, the ball will hit the ground at two positions:
- when \( x = 0 \) yards (which is the starting point)
- and when \( x = 61 \) yards.

Therefore, the ball will have traveled:
\[
\boxed{61} \text{ yards}
\]
before hitting the ground.