Below is just a partial listing of recently published clips, images and dispatches produced by the Track Profile News Service. Check for a listing of upcoming events on Track Profile's coverage schedule or contact Bob Ramsak at bob [at] trackprofile.com to discuss your upcoming coverage needs.
NOTE: Some articles listed here date back to 1999, thus links may no longer be active.
-2005-
31-December
TPR #411 - Dinkesa, Ochichi Cruise to Wins at Bolzano
BOLZANO, Italy – Running in cold conditions, Abebe Dinkesa and Isabella Ochichi cruised to comfortable victories at the 31st Corsa Internazionale di San Silvestro "Boclassic" in this South Tyrolian alpine town. Dinkesa took the lead in the fourth lap of the eight lap 10 km race to win convincingly in 28:38.9, more than 10 seconds ahead of Kenyan John Cheruiyot Korir, who reached the line in 28:49.6. Five-time winner and defending champion Sergiy Lebid, who was visibly struggling early on, was a distant third in 29:07.0. More in TPR #411...
30-December
TPR #410 - Bekele to Make Another Bid at Two-Mile World Best in Birmingham Olympic 10,000m champion Kenenisa Bekele will chase the world best for the two mile distance at the Norwich Union Grand Prix in Birmingham on February 18, organizers announced today. Bekele, who successfully defended his world title in the 10,000m in Helsinki last summer, will again attack compatriot Haile Gebrselassie’s indoor two mile best of 8:04.69, also set in Birmingham in 2003. In a highly-publicized attempt last February at the same meeting, Bekele finished second to another Ethiopian, Markos Geneti, six weeks after the tragic death of his fiancee. More in TPR #410...
29-December
TPR #409 - Dinkessa, Korir, Ochichi Join Bolzano Field Abebe Dinkesa of Ethiopia, Kenyan John Cheruiyot Korir and Olympic 5000m silver medallist Isabella Ochichi have joined the field for the 31st Boclassic races in Bolzano, Italy, on Saturday, December 31. More in TPR #409...
22-December
TPR #408 - Ritzenhein Joins Edinburgh Field
American Dathan Ritzenhein will join the field for next month's VisitScotland Great Edinburgh International Cross Country, organizers announced today. The 22-year-old Ritzenhein's Jan. 14 appearance in the Scottish capital will be his third international race in less than three weeks. On New Year's Eve, he will contest the Boclassic 10 km road race in Bolzano, Italy, and will defend his title at the Belfast International Cross Country race on Jan. 7. More in TPR #408...
20-December
TPR #407 - In Rare Indoor Appearance, Mottram Headlines 2-Mile Field in Boston
Craig Mottram, the bronze medallist in the 5000 meters at this year's IAAF World Championships, will headline a strong 2-Mile field at the Reebok Boston Indoor Games on Jan. 28, organizers announced today. The 25-year-old Australian, who rarely races indoors, will be making his first indoor appearance in the U.S. He heads a strong field in the rarely-contested 2 Miles, which includes Sileshi Sihine of Ethiopia, the 2004 Olympic 10,000m silver medalist and 2005 World Championships runner-up at both 5000 and 10,000m; Ireland’s Alistair Cragg, the 3000m European Indoor Champion; and Gebre Gebremariam of Ethiopia, the four-time World Cross Country Championships medalist. More in TPR #407...
19-December
TPR #406 - Lebid Joins Edinburgh Field
Sergiy Lebid, who cruised to his sixth European cross country title eight days ago, will contest next month's Great Edinburgh International Cross Country, organizers announced today. "I'm looking forward to returning to Edinburgh," said the 30-year-old Ukrainian, who was fifth in the race last January. "Although it was a very tough race the last time and I expect it will be again." More in TPR #406...
13-December
TPR #405 - Montgomery, Gaines Handed Two-Year Bans, Testimony by White Was Critical
Former 100 meter world record holder Tim Montgomery and three-time World Championships sprint relay gold medallist Chryste Gaines were handed two-year bans today after the American pair were found guilty of doping violations by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The findings against both Montgomery and Gaines, who had never failed a drugs test, were based upon evidence gathered in conjunction with the U.S. federal investigation of the Balco Lab and its founder Victor Conte. More in TPR #405...
13-December
Kiplagat and Lebid - Different Winning Perspectives
TILBURG, Netherlands – For the winners of Sunday’s titles at the 12th SPAR European Cross Country Championships, their commanding victories meant two entirely different things: for one it was a look back, and for the other, a springboard for the future. For Dutchwoman Lornah Kiplagat, it marked the end of a largely successful 2005 campaign. For his part, Sergiy Lebid hopes that his unprecedented sixth win in his now traditional winter debut will bring success on the track in 2006. More for the IAAF...
11-December
Lebid kicks to Six - European Cross Country, Men's Races
TILBURG, Netherlands – If there was any doubt that Sergiy Lebid is the continent’s King of cross country, he dispelled them immediately after unleashing his now trademark kick en route to his fifth straight, and sixth overall, European title at the SPAR European Cross Country Championships. More for the IAAF...
11-December
Kiplagat’s Tactical Masterpiece – European Cross Country, Women's Races
TILBURG, Netherlands – Displaying a brilliant tactical performance, Lornah Kiplagat thrilled the enthusiastic crowd with her dominating victory at the 12th SPAR European Cross Country Championships, claiming the first-ever title for the Netherlands. . More for the IAAF...
10-December
TPR #403 - No Expectations for Kiplagat at European Cross Country Championships
TILBURG, Netherlands – Although she arrives in Tilburg armed with the field's finest international resume, Lornah Kiplagat has no expectations as she leads the host nation in Sunday afternoon's contest. "Of course, I plan on doing my best, but I'm not really expecting anything," said the 31-year-old, who arrived in Tilburg from her native Kenya on Thursday. "I've prepared well, even though I'm not a crosser," she said. With a laugh she added: "I don't really like cross country. But I'm looking forward to see what I can do. I just want to do as good as possible." More for the international distance running news service Race Results Weekly, the IAAF and in TPR #402...
10-December
TPR #402 - While Optimistic for Sixth Title, Lebid Already Looking Ahead
TILBURG, Netherlands - On the eve of his chase for a sixth European cross country title, Sergey Lebid is about as confident as one could be without actually making any bold predictions. "It doesn't matter if the weather conditions are cold or warm," said the 30-year-old Ukrainian, who's taken the last four titles. Speaking through an interpreter, he added: "I'm ready. Based on my physical and mental condition, I think I can win." More for the international distance running news service Race Results Weekly, the IAAF and in TPR #402...
09-December
TPR #401 - Lebid goes for No. 6 - European Cross Country Championships Preview
TILBURG, Netherlands - As European athletics attention turns to this weekend’s SPAR European Cross Country Championships (Sun 11 Dec), two intriguing questions immediately come to mind -
The first: can anyone stop the Ukrainian juggernaut Sergey Lebid, the continent’s undisputed cross country King? And the second: with a solid women’s field gathered, can Briton Hayley Yelling become the first woman ever to successfully defend her title? Those questions will be answered Sunday afternoon when the gun sounds for the championships’ 12th edition at the Leijpark in Tilburg, Netherlands. More for the IAAF and in TPR #401...
08-December
TPR #400 - Bekele to Make 2006 Debut at Edinburgh Cross
Kenenisa Bekele will make his first appearance of the year at the Great Edinburgh International Cross Country on Saturday, January 14, organizers announced today. The 23-year-old Ethiopian, who last March claimed an unprecedented fourth consecutive double win at the World Cross Country Championships, was slated to run in this event last January, but was forced to pull out after the tragic death of his fiancée Alem Techale just 11 days before the race. More in TPR #400...
06-December
TPR #399 - Holmes Announces Retirement From Athletics
Kelly Holmes, who raced to double victory at the 2004 Olympic Games, announced today that her athletics career is officially over. "This has been a very tough decision to make," Holmes, the reigning Olympic 800 and 1500 meter champion, said in a statement distributed to media this morning. "Hanging up my spikes forever is a big step." More in TPR #399...
03-December
TPR #398 - Matthew Birir's Life After Olympic Gold
SINGAPORE -- When a successful Western athlete retires nowadays, chances are that the last hop, step or jump will be into the commentary box. At the World Championships in Helsinki last summer, you could barely move on the media benches without bumping into an Olympic gold medallist, world record holder or other athletic high achiever. Michael Johnson, Steve Cram, Marie-Jo Pérec, Saïd Aouita, Sally Gunnell, José-Luis González, Steve Ovett were just some of the former elite hunched behind a microphone, slumming it with the hacks; not to mention Ovett’s old sparring partner Seb (Lord) Coe, taking up the occasional invite to say a few words about pulling off his latest sporting surprise –-winning (almost single-handedly) the 2012 Olympics for London. But what about the winners from less fashionable or lesser-funded nations, like Kenya which, despite its plethora of Olympic and world gold winners cannot yet afford to send a dedicated television crew to major Games? Take Matthew Birir, for example. More in TPR #398...
01-December
TPR #397 - Gebrselassie to Make Half-Marathon Record Attempt at U.S Road Racing Debut in Phoenix
Haile Gebrselassie will make his U.S. road racing debut at the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon in Phoenix, Ariz., in January, organizers confirmed today, and he will be going for the world record. “This is not a preparation race for the London Marathon in April,” said Gebrselassie in a prepared statement. “I will be training specifically for Arizona and plan on running a very fast time there. It will be a serious race and not just a preparation one.” More in TPR #397...
01-December
TPR #396 - Mottram to Headline Inaugural Wanganui Mile in February
Craig Mottram, the bronze medallist in the 5000 meters at this year's World Championships, will headline the inaugural Wanganui Mayoral Mile in Wanganui, New Zealand, on Saturday, Feb. 11. In a race gathering the region's premiere middle distance runners, the 25-year-old Australian is slated to compete against Nick Willis and Adrian Blincoe, New Zealand's top milers. A first place prize of NZD $10,000 (USD $7050) has been donated by the city's Mayor, Michael Laws. More in TPR #396...
29-November
TPR #395 - 2006 Boston Indoor Games Set for January 28
The 11th edition of the Reebok Boston Indoor Games will take place on Saturday, Jan. 28, organizers announced today. More in TPR #395...
29-November
TPR #394 - Gatlin, Felix Named 2005 Owens Award Winners
Sprinters Justin Gatlin and Allyson Felix were named the 2005 winners of the Jesse Owens Award on Monday, the highest accolade presented by USA Track & Field, the sport's national governing body. More in TPR #394...
28-November
TPR #393 - 2006 Golden League Events Announced
The IAAF, track's international governing body, today announced the ten disciplines designated as Golden League events for 2006. Each of the events, five for men and five for women, will be contested at each of the six Golden League competitions. More in TPR #393...
28-November
TPR #392 - Galen Rupp: America's Prospect
The mark of a champion is seeing the cup half full rather than half empty when faced with adversity. And so it is that 19-year-old Oregon sophomore Galen Rupp does not so much lament the fact injury forced him to skip the NCAA cross country race on November 21, a race he would certainly have been in the thick of, as much as see it as an opportunity to prepare for his next track season. More in TPR #392...
21-November
TPR #391 - Alan Webb on Track to Greatness
After beating Jim Ryun's age old American high school mile record, four years ago, Alan Webb was feted, celebrated and touted as the next great American athlete. Appearances on 'Late Night With David Letterman' and the 'Today Show' served only to push the then 18-year-old further into the spotlight. But then his progress came to an abrupt halt. More in TPR #391...
21-November
TPR #390 - Increased Mileage Provides Dividends for Boone-Smith
Rachelle Boone-Smith burst onto the national scene with her impressive showing at the U.S. national championships last June, but it wasn’t until her strong come-from-behind World silver medal winning dash in the 200m in Helsinki last summer that she finally exploded onto the international scene. “It was my first outdoor World Championships,” said the 24-year-old Virginia native, who was a semi-finalist in the event at the 2004 World Indoor Championships. “I just wanted to go in and perform well. I was nervous on the last day, but I ended up running good. I was pleased with the results.” More in TPR #390 and for the IAAF...
20-November
TPR #389 - Gebrselassie Cruises to Seven Hills Win
NIJMEGEN, The Netherlands -- Breaking from Zersenay Tadesse in the ninth kilometer, Haile Gebrselassie cruised to a comfortable win at the 22nd Zevenheuvelenloop (Seven Hills) 15-K today in this eastern Dutch city. Competing just five weeks after his 2:06:20 victory at the ING Amsterdam Marathon, the year's fastest performance, the Ethiopian star stopped the clock in 41:57, 20 seconds ahead of Tadesse, the fourth fastest performance ever. Besides Gebrselassie, who won here in 1994, only Kenyan Felix Limo (41:29) and last year's winner Sileshi Sihine (41:38) have run the rarely-contested distance faster. In 2001, Gebrselassie finished second to Limo's world record, also clocking 41:38. More in TPR #389...
19-November
TPR #388 - WADA Launches Web-Based Anti-Doping Management System
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) yesterday announced the launch of ADAMS, the Anti-Doping Administration & Management System, a web-based database management system that helps coordinate anti-doping activities worldwide under the World Anti-Doping Code. More in TPR #388...
16-November
TPR #387 - Khannouchi Preps for Comeback
Three years of incredible frustration may soon come to an end for U.S. marathon record holder Khalid Khannouchi. Largely forgotten as he convalesced from a debilitating injury to his left foot, he has reluctantly watched as Kenya's Paul Tergat eclipsed his world record in 2003 and as others have racked up honors and collected headlines. Now, from his home in Ossining, New York, he is plotting a return to the top echelons of the sport. More in TPR #387...
15-November
TPR #386 - Olsson Hoping For January Return
After sitting out the entire 2005 season with an ankle injury, Olympic triple jump champion Christian Olsson is hoping to return to action at the Norwich Union International match in Glasgow on January 28. More in TPR #386...
10-November
TPR #385 - Radcliffe Withdraws From Nijmegen 15-K
Paula Radcliffe, the world record in the marathon, has withdrawn from the Zevenheuvelenloop (Seven Hills Run) 15-K on Sunday, 20 November, organizers announced today. Gary Lough, Radcliffe's husband and manager, told organizers that after a recent bout of bronchitis she was not prepared for the race that would have been her first serious competition since capturing the world marathon title in Helsinki last August. More in TPR #385...
10-November
TPR #384 - New Generation Help to Consign Win Streaks to History
While 2004 witnessed the end of several of the sport’s significant win streaks, most notably, those of Maria Mutola, Ana Guevara, Felix Sanchez and Hicham El Guerrouj, 2005 was more about the sport’s new generation trying to stake out their territory in the post-Olympic year. And with many of the key emerging players still very young and their events fiercely competitive, streaks such as those that ended last year might prove extremely difficult to duplicate. More for the IAAF...
08-November
TPR #383 - Tergat-Ramaala Rematch Set for London
Less than 24 hours after their dramatic homestretch duel at Sunday's ING New York City Marathon, Paul Tergat and Hendrick Ramaala have already agreed to a rematch at the Flora London Marathon next April. More in TPR #383...
04-November
TPR #381 - Tadesse, Ochichi Headline Spanish Cross Country Season Kick-off on Sunday
Zersenay Tadesse of Eritrea, the reigning Olympic 10,000m bronze medallist and Kenyan Isabella Ochichi, the Olympic 5000m silver medallist, are the headline attractions at the 25th Cross Internacional Castellano-Manchego in Quintanar de la Orden as the high level Spanish cross country season commences on Sunday. More in TPR #381...
02-November
TPR #380 - Slow, but Steady Comeback for Lalova
Nearly five months after breaking her leg in what witnesses described as a "horrendous" accident, Ivet Lalova said she's on a slow but steady road back. "The rehab needs a lot of perseverance and endurance," the 21-year-old Bulgarian sprinter said, "but for a person who is used to spending most of their time training, it becomes like a part of the training process." More in TPR #380 and for the IAAF...
28-October
TPR #379 - IAAF: No Doping Positives at World Half Marathon Championships
No positive drug tests emerged from the recent World Half Marathon Championships, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), the sport's international governing body, announced today. In all, 15 urine and blood samples were collected during the championships held in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada on 1 October, while 101 blood samples were taken prior to the competition. More in TPR #379...
26-October
TPR #378 - Ceplak Undergoes Surgery, Will Skip Indoor Season
LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA -- Reigning Olympic 800m bronze medallist Jolanda Ceplak of Slovenia underwent surgery earlier this week to correct what was finally diagnosed as the underlying cause of an Achilles tendon injury that frustrated her throughout the 2005 season. An examination on Monday by Austrian physician, Dr. Christian Schenk, found that a bone was aggravating her tendon, a condition, he determined, that required immediate attention. "When Jolanda visited Dr. Schenk [Monday] morning," said Ceplak's manager, Robert Wagner, "he diagnosed a protruding bone on the back of her heal which slowly, but constantly was rubbing off the Achilles tendon from the inside. The surgery was so urgent that they operated on her the same evening." More in TPR #378 and for the IAAF...
20-October
TPR #377 - Negussie, Tulu, Wami Join New York Marathon Fields, Gharib Out
Ethiopian Hailu Negussie, winner of this year's Boston Marathon, has been added to the field for the ING New York City Marathon on Sunday, 6 November, organizers announced. Negussie's compatriots, Derartu Tulu and Gete Wami, are the latest additions to the women's field. "Individually they are all stars, but together they make a galaxy of greats," said New York Road Runners president and CEO and race director Mary Wittenberg. "This is as good as it gets." More in TPR #377...
04-October
TPR #375 - Rutto Eyes Chicago With Cautious Optimism
When he toes the line at the start of Sunday's LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, Evans Rutto believes he'll be up to the task for his third straight win on the streets of the 'Windy city.' "I'll have to wait to see how the race is, but of course it is my aim to win again this year," said the 27-year-old Kenyan who debuted over the distance in Chicago in 2003 clocking 2:05:50, the fastest ever by a debutante. Last year he followed up with another brisk performance clocking 2:06:16 but is hesitant to predict fast times. More in TPR #375...
25-September
TPR #374 - Noguchi, Manyim Win in Berlin
BERLIN -- Running in sunny and rapidly warming conditions, Mizuki Noguchi won the 32nd real,-Berlin Marathon today in 2:19:12 to become the third fastest woman ever to cover the distance. Running in just his third marathon, Kenyan Philip Manyim won the men's race in 2:07:41, equalling the third fastest performance of the year. Noguchi, the reigning Olympic champion, shattered Sun Yingjie's Asian record of 2:19:39, and easily surpassed Yoko Shibui's 2:19:41 Japanese record set here last year. Only Paula Radcliffe of Great Britain and Catherine Ndereba of Kenya have run the distance faster. More in TPR #374...
24-September
TPR #373 - Wide Open Men's Race on Tap in Berlin on Sunday
BERLIN - While Mizuki Noguchi is clearly the woman to beat in Sunday's real,-Berlin Marathon, the men's race, as has become commonplace here, promises to be a fiercely fought contest. Combined, the last three men's races were decided by just eight seconds. With no strong favorite this year, a similarly close race can be expected once again on Berlin's flat, fast course. More in TPR #373...
22-September
TPR #372 - Noguchi Aiming for Sub-2:20 in Berlin
BERLIN – When Mizuki Noguchi lines up for the start of the 32nd real,-Berlin Marathon on Sunday morning, the reigning Olympic champion’s goals are anything but modest. The 27-year-old Japanese has come to Berlin with the hope of becoming just the sixth woman to dip under the formidable 2:20 barrier. More in TPR #372...
12-September
Isinbayeva and Bekele – the Weight of Tragedy and Expectation
MONACO –- Keeping in tune with the “new generation” theme that emerged from last summer’s Olympic Games, Kenenisa Bekele and Yelena Isinbayeva confirmed that they are indeed that generation’s driving force after earning their second consecutive World Athlete of the Year awards. More for the IAAF...
09-10-September
* Coverage From the World Athletics Final *
The TRACK PROFILE Report went to the south of France to provide exclusive coverage from season's last main event, The World Athletics Final in Monaco.
10-September
TPR #369 - Again, Bekele, Isinbayeva Named Athletes of the Year
MONACO –- For the second consecutive year, world 10,000 meter champion Kenenisa Bekele and World pole vault champion Yelena Isinbayeva were named the World Athletes of the Year for 2005 tonight at the World Athletics Gala at Monte Carlo's Hotel Fairmont. More in TPR #369...
10-September
Pitkämäki, 91.33m - Making up for Helsinki
MONACO –- After a 91.33m meeting record heave to easily capture the title in the men's Javelin throw, Tero Pitkämäki was calm, reflecting on his performance in an almost understated manner. More for the IAAF...
09-September
TPR #367 - Gay - Better, Stronger, Fresher
MONACO –- Of the handful of upsets to emerge on the first day of the 3rd World Athletics Final in Monaco, perhaps the most eye-opening was Tyson Gay’s victory in the 200m. “I feel great,” said Gay, the former University of Arkansas standout who celebrated his 23rd birthday last month. Among his victims was World champion Justin Gatlin, who suffered his first loss of the season over the distance. More in TPR #367 and for the IAAF...
09-September
TPR #366 - Tergat to Run ING New York City Marathon
MONACO –- Paul Tergat, the world record holder in the marathon, will compete in November's ING New York City Marathon, race director Mary Wittenberg announced today in Monte Carlo. "Paul will be the headliner among headliners," Wittenberg said. In a close race, the 36-year-old Tergat set the world record of 2:04:55 at the real Berlin Marathon in 2003, just a second ahead of another Kenyan, Sammy Korir. The previous record, 2:05:38, was set by Khalid Khannouchi in London in 2002. More in TPR #366...
08-September
TPR #365 - Gatlin: Doubling in Monte Carlo 'irrelevant.'
MONACO –- Many pundits found it surprising that Justin Gatlin, the reigning world and Olympic champion in the 100 meters, would choose to contest the 200 meters tomorrow at the World Athletics Final. But for Gatlin, who also claimed the world title over the half lap in Helsinki, the decision was an easy one. "Obviously we know right now that I'm number one in the world in the 100 and it would take more than an average performance to catch me in the 100," Gatlin explained. "But right now in the 200, I'm sitting in number two, maybe 13 points behind. So hopefully I can go out there and run a great race and be number one in both." More in TPR #365...
08-September
TPR #364 - Injury Scare for Bergqvist
MONACO –- By any measure, Kajsa Bergqvist has had a fairy tale 2005 season. Less than a year after undergoing surgery to repair a torn Achilles, the Swede came back to become the world's dominant high jump force. Undefeated in 12 competitions, she jumped two meters or better in half of those, tops the season's list with a 2.03 leap, and captured her first world title. But when she hobbled into the pre-competition press conference this afternoon at the seaside Fairmount Hotel, a fairy tale ending to her fairy tale season seemed to take a turn for the worse, much like the stormy Mediterranean waves, calm last night, but now pounding against the hotel's break walls. More in TPR #364...
08-September
TPR #363 - Nelson: 'Competitions like this make or break my year'
MONACO –- It's very likely that for the first time in his high profile career, Adam Nelson will not be introduced at the World Athletics Final here on Saturday as a reigning silver medallist. The 30-year-old American finally broke that ongoing cycle after capturing the world shot put title in Helsinki last month. "When the competition was over," Nelson said, "five years of frustrations and just being so close, knocking on the door so many times and have it taken away from my by, you know, less than what's measurable.. To finally win that gold medal, it really was an amazing experience and an amazing sensation." More in TPR #363...
08-September
TPR #362 - Isinbayeva on World Records: 'It's another level and it's very difficult.'
MONACO –- Being the world's preeminent force in an event doesn't preclude an element of pressure. For pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva, it's not so much the pressure of not winning, but rather, the pressure of continually outdoing her own mind-boggling string of world records. "It's a little bit of pressure for me," Isinbayeva said as she prepared to defend her World Athletics Final title. More in TPR #362...
04-September
TPR #360 - Lebedeva Takes Million Dollar Golden League Jackpot
BERLIN –- With a second round 14.85 leap, triple jumper Tatyana Lebedeva sealed her win at this afternoon's ISTAF Meeting, and with it, sole possession of the one million dollar TDK Golden League Jackpot. More in TPR #360 and for the IAAF ...
03-September
TPR #359 - After World Title, It's Now 'Sir Blom'
BERLIN –- To some, Rens Blom’s recent gold medal in the Pole Vault at the World Championships was seen as unexpected. For the 28-year-old Dutchman, it was what followed that caught him completely off guard. “After the world championships, my life changed quite a bit,” said Blom, speaking with reporters on the eve the ISTAF Golden League meeting here in the German capital. “I didn’t really expect this kind of impact.” More in TPR #359...
03-September
TPR #358 - Lebedeva's Million Dollar Quest: 'I will have to be a figher.'
BERLIN – Triple jumper Tatyana Lebedeva's quest for the $1 million TDK Golden League jackpot concludes tomorrow in Berlin's Olympic Stadium, and it's a task that was made substantially easier yesterday when Jamaican Trecia Smith, who captured the world title in Helsinki, pulled out with injury. More in TPR #358...
31-August
TPR #356 - Shaheen, Mottram, Kipchoge to Face-Off in BUPA 3000 Road Race
Saif Saaeed Shaheen, the world’s top steeplechase specialist of the past three seasons, tops a high caliber field at the BUPA 3000 meter road race on Saturday, September 17 in Newcastle, England, organizers announced today. More in TPR #356...
30-August
TPR #355 - Excellent Back-to-Back Road Miles Ahead in September
The track season will be over, but fans will be able to see some of the world's best milers compete in excellent road miles on back-to-back weekends in late September. On Saturday, September 17 the BUPA Great North Mile will take place in Newcastle, England. Defending champion Ivan Heshko of Ukraine will have to turn back the challenges of Daniel Kipchirchir Komen, the year's most consistent 1500 meter runner, and Alan Webb, the U.S. 1500m champion who will be making his road mile debut. World Championship and Olympic bronze medalist Rui Silva will also be in the race, along with Britain's top miler, Michael East. More in TPR #355 and for the international distance running news service, Race Results Weekly...
26-August
Bekele Again: 26:17.53 World Record In Brussels
BRUSSELS -- Living up to overwhelming expectations, Kenenisa Bekele shattered his own world record in the 10,000 meters, clocking 26:17.53 tonight at the Van Damme Memorial Golden League meeting in Brussels. With a 57-second closing lap, the 23-year-old Ethiopian knocked nearly three seconds from the 26:20.31 standard he set last year in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Complete distance event report for the international distance running news service, Race Results Weekly...
26-August
Vroemen – Pacemaker Takes European Record
BRUSSELS -- Somewhat lost behind Saif Saaeed Shaheen’s near miss-assault on his own world record in the 3000m steeplechase was Simon Vroemen’s 8:04.95 runners-up performance, a clocking that removed the “co” from his long-time description as European record holder in the event. More for the IAAF...
25-August
TPR #354 - With Renewed Confidence, Ramzi Returns
BRUSSELS -- After a brief respite following his historic double middle distance win at the world championships, Rachid Ramzi returns to action, topping the bill in tomorrow night’s 1500 meter field at the Memorial Van Damme. And despite the fatigue brought on by six difficult races in an eight day span, the 25-year-old Bahraini is ready. "I feel more confident in myself and in my ability to run and to compete," Ramzi said of his double victory in Helsinki, the first-ever of its kind at a world championship. More in TPR #354 and for the international distance running news service, Race Results Weekly...
25-August
TPR #353 - Still not Healed, Powell Calls it a Season
BRUSSELS -- A nagging groin injury that has sidelined world 100 meter record holder Asafa Powell for more than a month is forcing the Jamaican to end his season, his manager confirmed today. “It’s just too much of a risk,” his manager Paul Doyle said. “We were hoping to be ready for [The World Athletics Final in] Monaco, but it’s too risky.” More in TPR #353...
25-August
#352 - Isinbayeva: 'I can't just win. I need to make a new world record.'
BRUSSELS -- Since embarking on her unassailable domination of the women’s pole vault, Yelena Isinbayeva has repeatedly said that her chief competition is herself, the weather, and the bar. But now the 23-year-old Russian star has added another item to that list: her own growing expectations and those of the fans she lures to stadiums. “I would like to do my best tomorrow, to make the crowd happy, and hopefully have a new World record,” she said, clearly indicating that she has as her target the 5.01m record she set in Helsinki while claiming her first world senior championship. “Because I can’t just win. I need to make a new World record.” More in TPR #352 and for the IAAF...
19-August
Richards Becomes Youngest Ever Under 49 Seconds
ZURICH -- Just nine days after her self-described disappointing runners-up finish in the 400 meters at the World Championships, Sanya Richards made amends with a stunning 48.92 win that jettisoned the 20-year-old American into the event’s all-time top-ten list. More for the IAAF...
18-August
TPR #351 - Again, No Gatlin-Powell Showdown in Zurich
ZURICH -- Yet again, an eagerly-awaited 100 meter showdown between World and Olympic champion Justin Gatlin and World record holder Asafa Powell will not come to pass at tomorrow's Weltklasse TDK Golden League meeting. Still on the mend from a nagging groin injury, Powell was advised by physicians not to compete. More in TPR #351 and for the IAAF...
18-August
TPR #350 - Gatlin on Helsinki U.S. Relay Debacle: ‘We need discipline.'
ZURICH -- The United States needs to run a tighter ship if they expect to compete well in the 400 meter relay in major competitions, said double sprint world champion Justin Gatlin. "One thing we don't have that other countries have is discipline," said Gatlin, whose bid for a third gold medal at the recent world championships was thwarted when a botched exchange kept the U.S. quartet from advancing from the opening round. More in TPR #350...
03-14-August
* Coverage From the 10th IAAF World Athletics Championships *
The Track Profile News Service assisted in Helsinki with daily coverage for the IAAF, the sport's international governing body, as well as for the world's premiere distance running news service, Race Results Weekly, along with several newspapers and website. Below is a sampling or stories available on the world wide web.
14-August
TPR #349 - Ramzi Completes Unprecedented Double
HELSINKI -- In just his second season of elite international racing, Rashid Ramzi of Bahrain completed the first-ever middle distance double at a world athletics championship after his 1:44.24 victory in the 800 meters. More in TPR #349...
14-August
Ramzi Absorbs Athens Lesson
HELSINKI -- In just his second season of elite international racing, Rashid Ramzi of Bahrain completed the first-ever middle distance double at a World Athletics championship after his 1:44.24 victory in the 800 metres. It was date with destiny that few anticipated, except perhaps for the 25-year-old Ramzi himself. More for the IAAF...
14-August
Radcliffe fulfills date with destiny
HELSINKI -- A year after her double 'did not finish' performance at the Olympics, that the athletics world wouldn’t let her forget, Paula Radcliffe finally claimed an elusive World title at the Marathon, and the winner couldn’t have been more pleased. More for the IAAF...
13-August
Williams: "I couldn't have asked for anything more."
HELSINKI -- Capping a week in which she was crowned the world champion in the 100 meters, Lauryn Williams added another gold medal to her growing collection after anchoring the U.S. to victory in the 4 x 100 meter relay at the 10th World Track and Field Championships. Two gold medals is wonderful,” said the University of Miami grad after securing the win along with teammates Angela Daigle, Muna Lee, and Me'Lisa Barber. “I couldn’t have asked for anything more coming here.” More for the Miami Herald
13-August
Pechonkina's Gameplan: 'Start easy and finish strong.'
HELSINKI -- As soon as she arrived in Helsinki, Yuliya Pechonkina had just one thing on her mind. “Gold, only gold,” she said. “Nothing else!” More for the IAAF...
12-August
Kirdyapkin: 'I love to walk. I can just walk and walk for hours around the city.'
HELSINKI -- Sergey Kirdyapkin after his 50km Race Walk win at the 10th IAAF World Championships in Athletics commented, “I love to walk. I can just walk and walk for hours around the city.” More for the IAAF...
11-August
Blom - the luck of the Flying Dutchman: 'I’m the worst jumper over the bar!'
HELSINKI -- Rens Blom readily admits that he owes his World title in the Pole Vault at the 10th IAAF World Championships in Athletics, to a little bit of old-fashioned luck. After all, he said, he hasn’t had much come his way. More for the IAAF...
11-August
TPR #347 - Richards 'Disappointed' With Runner-Up Finish
HELSINKI -- Some athletes are happy to win a silver medal. But to Sanya Richards, after finishing second in the 400 meters at the World Track & Field Championships, it was a matter of losing gold. "I must say that I'm really disappointed," the 2002 Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas grad said after clocking 49.74 seconds, 19 one-hundredths of a second behind Tonique Williams-Darling of the Bahamas, the 2004 Olympic champion. "I knew I could have won that race, but I don't think I executed as well as coach [Clyde Hart] wanted me to." More in TPR #347 and for the Miami Herald
11-August
TPR #346 - Madison's leap into the Limelight
HELSINKI -- Elyria, Ohio’s Tianna Madison may have arrived in the Finnish capital as an unknown, if promising long jumper. After a clutch performance that shocked the track world, she’ll leave as one of the youngest-ever world champions in the event. More in TPR #346 and for the Cleveland Plain Dealer
11-August
USA - 1, 2, 3, 4 at 200m?
HELSINKI -- With three of the year’s four fastest half-lappers ready to step to the start line of the 200m Thursday night, the always-formidable U.S. sprint corps will be trying to make history – the first-ever podium sweep of the event. More for the IAAF...
10-August
Clay: 'I credit fans support for my personal bests in these conditions.'
HELSINKI -- When competition began in the Decathlon on Tuesday, Bryan Clay wasn’t overburdening himself with the quest to capture the elusive title of ‘World’s Greatest Athlete.’ But things, he explained, just took on a life of their own. “I wasn’t very confident coming into this meet,” the 25-year-old Hawaii native admitted. “But things kind of got rolling and kind of got going.” More for the IAAF...
09-August
Calatayud - Quirot’s heir?
HELSINKI -- In the battle to dethrone two-time defending 800 metre champion Maria Mutola, a three-pronged attack by a formidable Russian trio was expected. In the end though, it was Cuban Zulia Calatayud, for much of the decade on the edge of greatness, who reigned supreme. And it wasn’t even particularly close. More for the IAAF...
09-August
TPR #345 - Shaheen Repeats, Calatayud Surprises
HELSINKI -- Adding more fuel to his desire to become the greatest steepler ever, Saif Saaeed Shaheen successfully defended his 3000 meter steeplechase title while Cuban Zulia Calatayud made her return from injury complete with a surprise win in the women's 800 to highlight an extremely wet fourth day of the IAAF World Athletics Championships. More in TPR #345
09-August
TPR #344 - Jackson 'Leaves it all on the track.'
HELSINKI -- Just a year after a near miss kept him from the Olympic team, Bershawn Jackson bounced back in remarkable fashion to win the world championship in the 400 meter intermediate hurdles. "I was fourth at the Olympic Trials, and I came out of there very hungry, very determined," said the 2002 Miami Central High grad after his blazing 47.30 second performance. Considering the chilly conditions, the unrelenting rain that flooded the Finnish capital throughout the day and the soaked puddle-ridden track, his performance was nothing short of astonishing. More in TPR #344 and for the Miami Herald
09-August
The quest to fill El Guerrouj’s vacant throne
HELSINKI -- As the battle to succeed four-time World champion Hicham El Guerrouj commences tomorrow night, the outcome of the men’s 1500 metres is nearly as unpredictable as the Moroccan was dominant. The opening round saw the quick departure of a pair of medal contenders, Kenyans Augustine Choge and Daniel Kipchirchir Komen, this year’s second fastest over the distance. The casualties continued in the first race of the semi-finals, when defending silver medallist Mehdi Baala failed to advance. After the Frenchman’s demise, U.S. champion Alan Webb had a quick decision to make. More for the IAAF...
09-August
TPR #343 - Williams: Helsinki was 'Better than Athens.'
HELSINKI -- Lauryn Williams may have arrived in the Finnish capital as the reigning Olympic silver medallist in the 100 meters, but after dashing to the world title last night, there was no doubt in her mind about which medal was more important to the University of Miami grad. More in TPR #343 and for the Miami Herald
08-August
Williams 'puts the whole thing together' better than in Athens
HELSINKI -- After her runner-up finish in Oslo’s Bislett Games, at the TDK Golden League meeting less than two weeks ago, 100m Olympic silver medallist Lauryn Williams spoke frankly about her post-Olympic campaign. “It’s not as great as I thought it would be,” she said. Here, she rebounded in fine fashion to grab the world title. More for the IAAF...
07-August
Gatlin: 'So I did get some kind of record.'
HELSINKI -- It didn’t take long for Justin Gatlin to realize that he would add the World championship in the 100 metres to his Olympic title. Less than 60 metres to be precise. "Actually I yelled half way through the race," the 23-year-old Gatlin said, sporting a wide grin after his dominating 9.88 victory. "I knew that it was over. I knew that I had it." More for the IAAF...
07-August
TPR #339 - After Day's Fastest Run, Clement 'Can't Complain.'
HELSINKI -- Maria Mutola, who has raced to three outdoor and six indoor world titles, barely survived a scare in the semi-finals to move on to Tuesday evening's final of the 800 meters. More in TPR #339...
07-August
Shaheen versus Kemboi duel to be expected
HELSINKI -- Predicting a rerun of his thrilling duel at the last World championships with Ezekiel Kemboi, reigning World Steeplechase champion Saif Saaeed Shaheen admitted that he’s facing a daunting task. More for the IAAF...
06-August
TPR #338 - After Day's Fastest Run, Clement 'Can't Complain.'
HELSINKI -- After producing the only sub-49 second performance during today's opening round of the 400 meter hurdles, U.S. teenager Kerron Clement was both content and relieved. "It went well, I can’t complain," said Clement after his 48.98 win. "I got a 48.9 in the first round, so I’m pretty excited about that. I’ll run faster in the semis." ... More in TPR #338...
06-August
Quarrie on the 100 metres candidates in Helsinki
HELSINKI -- When 16 of the world’s fastest men line up for the start of the 100 metre semi-finals on Sunday, Olympic champion Justin Gatlin will be in many minds the prohibitive favourite. But as Jamaican sprint legend Don Quarrie reminds us, anything can happen at a major competition. More for the IAAF...
05-August
TPR #337 - Sanchez: 'I'm going to run with the pain.'
HELSINKI -- Minutes after his runner-up finish to American Bershawn Jackson in the opening round of the 400 meter hurdles, two-time defending world champion and reigning Olympic champion Felix Sanchez gave a frank assessment of what it will take to become the event’s first three-time champion. It’s really painful,” Sanchez said, pointing to a protruding bone on the side of his right foot. “Everything around the bone is really painful. I’ve had an MRI and I’m going to have to have surgery to shave the bone down. But until then, I’m just going to run with the pain.” ... More in TPR #337...
06-August
Barber: 'I haven’t had a favorable chance to express myself.'
HELSINKI -- During their dramatic Heptathlon duel two years ago in Paris, Swede Carolina Klüft ended the first day with a 194 point lead over home crowd favourite Eunice Barber. When competition resumes tomorrow morning, Barber will begin the day with a narrow two-point lead over the reigning World and Olympic champion. More for the IAAF...
05-August
TPR #336 - Campbell: 'The 100 is up for Grabs'
HELSINKI -- After dashing to a pair of golds and a bronze last summer, Veronica Campbell left Athens as the most heavily decorated female athlete. Here in Helsinki, the 23-year-old Jamaican is hoping to duplicate, or even better her Olympic feat. ... More for the IAAF and in TPR #336...
04-August
Athletics' World Plan Progress report
HELSINKI -- Just two years after the introduction of the IAAF’s Athletics’ World Plan, a broad-ranging nine-year development plan for the sport, significant progress has already been achieved, the IAAF Council reported today during the closing session of the 45th IAAF Congress. ... More for the IAAF...
03-August
TPR #335 - No False Start Rule Proposal Withdrawn
HELSINKI -- Following considerable opposition and concern voiced by delegates, the IAAF Council withdrew its proposal of adopting a strict no-false start rule in the sprint events.
The proposal, set forth by Council at its meeting in Doha in April, would have called for immediate disqualification after a single false start. Pending further discussion and research, the rule currently in place, in which a first false start is charged to the field and the second results in disqualification, will remain in use. ... More for the IAAF and in TPR #335...
03-August
TPR #334 - IAAF Congress Approves Change of Citizenship Rule
HELSINKI, Finland -- As expected, an interim rule in effect since April regarding athletes’ change of citizenship was approved during the first session of 45th IAAF Congress in Helsinki. ... More in TPR #334...
03-August
Szewinska is elected as third woman on IAAF Council
HELSINKI -- Continuing a career that seemed unlikely after her retirement from the sport in 1980, Polish athletics legend Irena Szewinska was elected as the third woman to the IAAF Council during the first session of the 45th IAAF Congress in Helsinki this morning. ... More for the IAAF...
01-August
TPR #333 - Williams on 2005 Season: 'Not as Great as I Thought it Would be.'
Oslo, NORWAY -- After her runner-up finish at last Friday’s Bislett Games in Oslo, Lauryn Williams, the 2004 Olympic silver medallist in the 100m, readily shared a frank assessment on her season to date. “Not as great as I thought it would be,” she said plainly and succinctly. Call it the post-Olympic blues, or, well, something. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #333...
29-July
Jamal sets surprising 3000m World lead in Oslo
Oslo, NORWAY -- Maryam Jamal’s is a name that the athletics world has seen a lot of this year. And after she breezed to a world-leading 8:28.87 win in the 3000m here tonight, it’s a name that we might have to begin getting used to. ... More for the IAAF...
29-July
#332 - Johnson: Demus Has a 'Decent Shot' at Golden League jackpot
Oslo, NORWAY -- Of the three athletes remaining in the hunt for the one million dollar TDK Golden League jackpot, four-time 110m hurdles world champion Allen Johnson says that American 400m hurdler Lashinda Demus has a “decent shot” to capture the sport’s biggest prize. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #332...
29-July
The Dream Mile, Bislett's centre piece - TDK Golden League
Oslo, NORWAY -- Perhaps it occurred to him while leafing through all-time performance lists in the Mile. Or, more likely, it came to him while sharing a drive to the traditional pre-meet Strawberry Party at Oslo’s elegant City Hall with former World record holder Steve Cram. In either case, when he takes to the start line tomorrow night in Oslo’s newly-rebuilt Bislett Stadium, Daniel Kipchirchir Komen now knows that the evening’s centerpiece event, the legendary Dream Mile, is far from just an ordinary race.. ... More for the IAAF...
29-July
#331 - Bislett Games: ‘Dream Mile’s’ New Stadium Beckons New Generation
Oslo, NORWAY -- When the ExxonMobil Bislett Games Golden League meeting returns to the newly-rebuilt Bislett Stadium Friday night, it will be more than just a homecoming for one of the sport’s most respected competitions: it also signals the return of the ‘Dream Mile,’ an event that has defined this competition for nearly three decades, and with it, perhaps the dawning of a new generation in middle distance running. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #331...
26-July
#330 - Guevara's Last Pre-World Champs Test Tonight
LJUBLJANA, Slovenia -- Ana Guevara, the reigning world 400m champion, will make her last test run prior to next month's world championships at tonight's Ljubljana 2005 Meeting in the Slovenian capital. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #330...
25-July
#329 - Bev Kearney: 'You learn that the impossible is possible'
A profile on University of Texas head coach Bev Kearney ... More in The IAAF Magazine...
24-July
#328 - Crawford Out of Helsinki 200, World Leader Spearmon In - FREE SAMPLE ISSUE
A foot injury will force Shawn Crawford, the Olympic 200 meter champion, to bypass the event at next month’s world championships, his agent confirmed today, paving the way for Wallace Spearmon Jr., the year’s fastest man in the event, to compete in Helsinki. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #328...
20-July
TPR #326 - No World Championships For Kelly Holmes
Injury will force Kelly Holmes, last year's double Olympic champion, to miss next month's World Championships in Helsinki, the runner said today. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #326...
16-July
TPR #325 - Dwight Phillips: 'I have a lot of issues to deal with'
After several lackluster --by his standards-- spring and early-summer outings, reigning world and Olympic long jump champion Dwight Phillips readily admits he has some work to do before he begins his defense of his global title on August 12 in Helsinki. “I have a lot of issues I need to deal with,” Phillips said after his win at the Zagreb, Croatia Grand Prix last Monday with a leap of 8.14 (26-8 ½). “I have a fouling problem right now.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #325...
15-July
TPR #324 - Toomey Looking at “The Big Picture”
In the last 10 days, Jen Toomey, the runner-up in the 1500 meters at last month’s U.S. national championships, missed twice in her attempt to collect the 4:05.80 “A” qualifying standard for next month’s world championships. But for the 33-year-old Tufts grad, chasing standards is no longer the ultimate goal. “I still have to get the standard in the 1500, but I’ve kind of decided that I really just have to embrace racing and enjoy it and bring the love back to racing,” the personable New Englander said after her personal best 2:36.46 third place finish in a 1000 meter race in Zagreb, Croatia on Monday. “And hopefully the times will come.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #324...
15-July
TPR #323 - Bergqvist Pleased With Consistent Comeback
After her win at the Zagreb Grand Prix on Monday night, her fifth in as many competitions this season, high jumper Kajsa Bergqvist was pleased. “I think I did a good competition,” the 28-year-old Swede said after her fourth two-meter effort of the year. “Two meters with no misses is good. I got a bit angry when I missed 2.02 though. I felt that I should have made that today.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #323...
15-July
TPR #322 - Shaheen on Helsinki: ‘I’m Going There to Win Gold’
Saif Saaeed Shaheen doesn’t mince words when looking towards his upcoming title defense in the 3000 meter steeplechase at next month’s IAAF World Championships in Helsinki. “I am going there to win gold, to win another title,” the 22-year-old Kenyan-born Qatari said. “I’m not going to win anything other than gold. That’s what I have to have in mind.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #322...
12-July
TPR #321 - Zagreb's Infield Takes Center Stage - Zagreb Grand Prix Report
ZAGREB, Croatia - A near world leading Hammer Throw performance by Manuela Montebrun and another two-metre High Jump effort for Kajsa Bergqvist ensured that the field events would take center stage at the 55th edition of the Hanzekovic Memorial IAAF Grand Prix in the Croatian capital. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #321 and for the IAAF ...
08-July
TPR #320 - For Richards, Coming-Out Party Continues
ROME -– Barely a week into July, U.S. 400 meter champion Sanya Richards has to be feeling pretty good. Last Tuesday in Lausanne, Richards handily defeated Olympic champion Tonique Williams-Darling with a respectable 49.95 performance, despite stiff winds down the backstretch. Tonight in Rome, the former University of Texas standout took down another big name --reigning World champion Ana Guevara-- by a whooping 8/10s of a second in 49.82. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #320 and for the IAAF ...
08-July
TPR UPDATE - Powell, Johnson Out of Rome's Golden Gala
ROME – Asafa Powell, the world record holder in the 100 meters, pulled out of tonight's Golden Gala Golden League race, citing a nagging groin injury. At yesterday's pre-race press conference, the Jamaican said he was 70% sure that he would compete. Tonight's men's 100 dash was to feature an eagerly awaited showdown between Powell and Olympic champion Justin Gatlin. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report UPDATE...
07-July
TPR #319 - Powell-Gatlin Match-Up in Rome Only the Beginning in 'Epic' Rivalry
ROME – As the nascent 100 meter rivalry between Olympic champion Justin Gatlin and recently-minted world record holder Asafa Powell resumes tomorrow night at the Golden Gala meet in the Italian capital, it’s not just the sporting world that’s looking forward to the latest clash of the two young giants of sprinting: the key players are also eagerly anticipating their showdown, as well as the many that are sure to follow. “Both of us are fighting for each other’s titles,” Gatlin said. “It’s an epic battle.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #319...
07-July
TPR #318 - Johnson: "This is the Toughest Year I've Seen
ROME -- On the eve of the Borotalco Golden Gala in the Italian capital, the second of the year's TDK Golden League meetings, Allen Johnson offered a succinct appraisal of his narrow defeat to Ladji Doucouré at the ‘Meeting Gaz de France’ TDK Golden League in Paris, last week. “He ran faster than the rest of us,” the quadruple World outdoor 110m Hurdles champion said, sporting a wide grin. “What else can I say?” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #318 and for the IAAF ...
06-July
TPR #317 - For Willis, 1500 NR is 'Perfect' Prep for World Championships
After last Friday's 1500 meter race at the Gaz de France Golden League meeting in Paris, Nick Willis walked deliberately through the media mixed, with little fanfare, little notice. Still trying to catch his breath, the 22-year-old New Zealander leaned onto a gate, looked around for a friendly face, and asked, "Do they have the 1500 times yet?" 3:32, he was told. "Point what?" "32.38." Raising his fists to the sky, the former University of Michigan star let out a series of howls before a climactic yelp. With his sixth place finish, Willis had eclipsed mile legend John Walker's national record of 3:32.40 set nearly 30 years earlier. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #317...
06-July
TPR #316 - London over Paris for 2012 Olympic Games
ROME -- London will the host the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee announced today in Singapore. The British capital, which last hosted the Games in 1948, was given the edge over Paris, the widely-perceived favorite, in a narrow 54-50 vote. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #316...
01-July
First TDK Golden League success for former World Junior champion Lashinda Demus
PARIS -- Just a week after her personal best 53.35 performance to win her first national title, American Lashinda Demus rode that momentum to her first major international invitational win with a 53.85 victory over a solid field at the Stade de France. ‘It felt fine. I actually thought we ran faster than 53.8,” the 22-year-old said after her fifth win in as many races over the full-lap barriers. ... More for the IAAF...
30-June
TPR #315 - Johnson: 110m World Record 'Could Possible Go' in Paris
PARIS -- With the four fastest hurdlers of the year set to compete tomorrow night at the Gaz de France meeting in the French capital, the men’s 110 meter hurdles is among the most anticipated events in the Golden League series kick-off. And Allen Johnson, the four-time world champion, thinks his chances for claiming another win at the Stade de France are quite good. “I’ve won the last three out of four here, so I think my chances are pretty good. But I’m sure the rest of the guys are pretty confident, everybody’s running fast. It’s going to be very interesting.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #315...
30-June
TPR #314 - For Lagat, 2005 is About 'Running Fast'
PARIS -- With his recent change of nationality to the United States leaving him ineligible to compete at this year’s world championships, Bernard Lagat said that he focusing primarily on one goal this year as he prepares to defend his Gaz de France Golden League 1500 title. “My motivation really is to run fast, and one of the races where I’m going to start running fast is tomorrow,” said the Kenyan-born American who claimed the silver medal at last year’s Olympic Games. “It’s one of the races that I’ve chosen where I’ve really put my mind into it, into running fast.” ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #314, and Race Results Weekly...
30-June
TPR #313 - “Maybe 12:35 or 12:36 would be good” - Bekele eyes 5000 World record in Paris
As he prepares a return to the track where he captured the 10,000m World title in 2003, Kenenisa Bekele has high hopes in his second outdoor track race of the year, including a possible attempt on his own 5000m World record of 12:37.35 set last year. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #313, the IAAF, and Race Results Weekly...
30-June
TPR #312 - Golden League to Begin Without Powell, Gatlin
PARIS -- When the six-meet Golden League series kicks off Friday night at the Stade de France just outside of Paris, two athletes will be conspicuously missing from the start line from one of the series' featured events: Olympic 100 meter champion Justin Gatlin and recently-minted world record holder Asafa Powell. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #312...
25-June
#311 - Ottey out for Season
LJUBLJANA, Slovenia -- Seven-time Olympian Merlene Ottey will miss the entire 2005 season with injury, ending her bid for a record eighth world championships appearance. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #311...
24-June
#310 - Ceplak Cautiously Optimistic About World Championship Chances
VELENJE, Slovenia – After a largely solo 1:59.98 win here at the MinersFest EAA meeting Thursday night, Olympic 800 meter bronze medallist Jolanda Ceplak remained cautiously optimistic six weeks before the World Championships commence in Helsinki. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #310...
24-June
#309 - El Guerrouj Postpones 2005 Debut Yet Again
Double Olympic champion Hicham El Guerrouj has withdrawn from Thursday's athletics meeting in Zaragoza, Spain, postponing yet again his highly anticipated 2005 debut. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #309...
16-19 June
Coverage from the SPAR European Cup
FLORENCE -- The TRACK PROFILE Report provided exclusive coverage from the three-day SPAR European Cup in the Tuscan capital for the IAAF, track & field's international governing body, and for Great Britain's Press Association.
Coverage for the IAAF: Day 3, Day 2, Day 1, and a pair of previews: men and women...
16-June
#308 - After Ostrava Win, Adere Upbeat
Despite a modest 15:01.78 win in the 5000 meters last week at the Golden Spike Super Grand Prix, Berhane Adere insists that she is precisely on course to successfully defend her world 10,000 meter title at August's IAAF World Championships. "I think I was ready to run 14:28 or 14:29 when I came from Ethiopia," Adere said after her race in Ostrava, Czech Republic. "But the track was just too wet --too much water! So I said I didn't want to risk an injury, so I just ran for the victory." ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #308...
14-June
TPR #306 - Powell: World Record 9.77 in Athens
Asafa Powell of Jamaica set a new world record in the 100 meters, clocking 9.77 seconds at the Tsiklitiria Super Grand Prix tonight in Athens, Greece. The 22-year-old eclipsed the previous record of 9.78 seconds, set by American Tim Montgomery in 2002. ... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #306...
13-June
Powell Plans Assault on Montgomery's World Record
LJUBLJANA (Reuters) - Jamaican Asafa Powell, the fastest man in the world over 100 meters this year, plans an assault on Tim Montgomery's world record some time soon. "I'm strong enough and I'm confident about it," Powell said in an interview. "Yeah, it's coming." ... More for The Reuters News Service...
09-June
Powell Powers to Stunning 9.85 in a Cold and Wet Ostrava
OSTRAVA, Czech Republic -- Running in cold and rainy conditions, Jamaican Asafa Powell powered to a stunning 9.85 victory in the 100 metres to highlight the Golden Spike Super Grand Prix. "I didn’t expect that, that it was going to be so fast," the 22-year-old Jamaican said after a jaw-dropping performance that was just 1/100 of a second shy of his national record and world leading 9.84 set last month at the Jamaica International. Complete meet report for the IAAF...
09-June
TPR #305 - Wariner Optimistic as Euro Circuit Debut Approaches
OSTRAVA, Czech Republic -- Despite a gloomy weather forecast, Olympic 400 meter champion Jeremy Wariner remains optimistic for the possibilities of a strong performance at his European circuit debut tonight at the Golden Spike Super Grand Prix in Ostrava, Czech Republic... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #305...
09-June
TPR #304 - Kemboi's Chase For Shaheen Begins in Ostrava
OSTRAVA, Czech Republic -- For 2004 Olympic steeplechase champion Ezekiel Kemboi, one thing is certain as he toes the line here tonight Vitkovice Stadium: he won’t finish runner-up to world record holder Saif Saeed Shaheen. With Shaheen, the former Kenyan Stephen Cherono, not in this eastern Czech city to defend his title, the personable 23-year-old Kemboi will be able to polish his race against a formidable field, one that includes 2004 Olympic champion Ruben Kosgei, meet record holder Wilson Boit Kipketer (8:06.14, 2002) and Richard Matelong (8:05.96), before he once again faces the world’s premiere steepler... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #304...
08-June
TPR #303 - After Cautious Prefontaine Outing, Powell is "100 Percent" Ready
OSTRAVA, Czech Republic -- Despite a narrow defeat to Olympic champion Justin Gatlin four days ago, Asafa Powell, this year’s fastest man, doesn’t seem too concerned about how his season is progressing. After all, his outing at last Saturday’s Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Ore., the Jamaican said, was a cautious one after sustaining a minor injury a few weeks earlier. "No, I wasn’t disappointed to lose," Powell, with his now trademark chuckle, said of the Eugene race, where bothhe and Gatlin were credited with wind-aided 9.84 performances. "I was just relaxing and going through the motions. In Santo Domingo (14-May) I got hurt running the 200, and at the Prefontaine I just wanted to feel how the groin felt."... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #303...
05-June
TPR #299 - Slovenian Olympian, Three Others Killed in Automobile Accident
Slovenian Olympian Matic Šušteršic and two other athletes were killed in an automobile accident early Sunday morning in Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital.... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #299...
05-June
TPR #298 - Gatlin over Powell in Eugene
Despite returning to Eugene's Hayward Field as the reigning Olympic 100 meter champion, Justin Gatlin had a few ghosts lurking in his closet from his appearance at the Prefontaine Classic just one year ago. Displaying his growing maturity, Gatlin relegated the ghosts of last year's last place showing to a mere footnote of his still-young career as he outleaned world leader Asafa Powell for his second, but clearly most important win of his post-Olympic season."... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #298...
02-June
TPR #297 - More Tough Times For Marion Jones
MILAN -- Marion Jones has had a rough 12 months off the track. And her life on the track didn’t get any better after yesterday’s sluggish 11.67 runner-up finish at the Grand Prix II meet in Milan. After her slowest performance since her early-teen days as a bright-eyed California high schooler, there was little Jones, now 29 and with a collection of 66 sub-11 second performances to her credit, could do after her race besides provide a blunt assessment of her performance. "Not too good," she said, sharing smiles, shrugs and nods of resignation. "It just wasn’t a good start at all today."... More in TRACK PROFILE Report #297...
25-May
TPR #294 - Mack - Negotiating a Tight-Rope Walk to Palo Alto
Just a few days after a 5.85 (19-2 ¼) clearance in just his second competition of the year, Olympic pole vault champion Tim Mack has to be pleased. "I jumped that with a very limited amount of training, I was a little surprised," Mack said of his clearance last weekend at a small jumpers competition at the Olympic training center near San Diego. "It showed I’m probably more ahead [in training] than I think I am. More for the IAAF and in the TRACK PROFILE Report #294...
24-May
TPR #293 - Greene, Godina, Kidane Added to New York's Reebok Grand Prix Fields
Sprinter Maurice Greene, shot putter John Godina and eight-time World Cross Country Championship medalist Werknesh Kidane of Ethiopia are the latest key entries for the inaugural Reebok Grand Prix on June 11 in New York City, organizers announced today. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #293...
20-May
TPR #292 - Trammell -- Overlooked But Consistently Looking For Perfection
While Olympic champion Liu Xiang has dominated his event’s headlines since equaling the world record in the 110 meter hurdles in Athens last year, there’s another high hurdler who despite his consistent big meet efforts, often seems overlooked: two-time Olympic silver medallist Terrence Trammell. "I know that I am," he said, in agreement with his "overlooked" status. "When you win, everyone knows about you. When you’re always in the mix, people remember you." More for the IAAF and in the TRACK PROFILE Report #291...
19-May
TPR #291 - Collins Accepts Four-Year Suspension
Sprinter Michelle Collins accepted a four-year doping suspension, the The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) announced today. Last December, Collins was handed an eight-year suspension resulting from investigations in the ongoing Balco drugs scandal. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #291...
19-May
TPR #290 - Bekele, Liu Xiang, to Highlight Golden League Kick-Off in Paris
Olympic champions Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia and Liu Xiang are among the first key stars announced for the opening TDK Golden League competition at the Gaz de France meeting in Paris Saint-Denis, on Friday, July 1. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #290...
19-May
TPR #289 - Adam Nelson "Selling" Himself on eBay
Olympic shot put silver medallist Adam Nelson, who has competed all year with "Space for Rent" displayed across his shirt, has expanded his marketing efforts to one of the world's biggest online marketplaces: eBay. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #289...
19-May
TPR #288 - Gebrselassie, Baldini and Lebed Headline BUPA Great Manchester Run
With Haile Gebrselassie, Olympic marathon champion Stefano Baldini and five-time European cross country champion Sergey Lebed topping the field, organizers are expecting an assault on Craig Mottram’s 27:54 course record at Sunday’s BUPA Great Manchester Run 10-K in Manchester, England. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #288...
19-May
TPR #287 - El Guerrouj Joins Prefontaine Classic 2-Mile Field
Hicham El Guerrouj of Morocco, the Olympic gold medallist in both the 1500 and 5000 meters, has been added to the 2-Mile field at the Prefontaine Classic Grand Prix on Saturday, June 4th in Eugene, Ore., organizers announced yesterday. Young American stars Alan Webb and Dathan Ritzenhein were previously announced for the race, marking the event as the meet's highlight for U.S. middle and long distance fans. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #287...
18-May
TPR #286 - Guevara, Williams-Darling to Headline New Meet in Sonora
400 meter stars Tonique Williams-Darling and Ana Guevara will headline the premiere edition of the Galatlética Banamex Sonora on Saturday, May 21 in Hermosillo, Mexico. But Williams-Darling, the Olympic champion who claimed half of last year’s million dollar TDK IAAF Golden League jackpot, and Guevara, the reigning world champion, will not meet on the track. Williams-Darling will contest the 200, while Guevara will make her first 400 appearance of the year. The two are scheduled to meet over the full lap at the Galatlética Banamex in Monterrey on June 11.
More in TRACK PROFILE Report #286...
17-May
TPR #285 - Olympic Hurdles Champion Liu Xiang Set For New York's Reebook Grand Prix
Liu Xiang, the 2004 Olympic 110 meter hurdles champion, will race at the Reebok Grand Prix on June 11 in New York City, organizers announced today. The 21-year-old Chinese star's appearance at the inaugural edition of the meet will be part of his first-ever competitive tour in the United States. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #285...
13-May
TPR #284 - In First Major Test, Wariner to Face Merritt, Rock in Carson
Sometime last fall, double world record holder Michael Johnson told Olympic 400 meter champion Jeremy Wariner that staying on top will prove to be a much more difficult task than the climb to the top. At next weekend’s Adidas Track Classic in Carson, California, the 21-year-old Texan will face his first significant test when he’ll face-off against the young season’s two fastest quarter-milers --LaShawn Merritt and Andrew Rock. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #284 and for the IAAF......
13-May
TPR #283 - Webb: Lagat Will Be 'A Great Leader'
While the circumstances surrounding Bernard Lagat's recent gaining of U.S. citizenship have stirred considerable debate, one person welcoming the news is the runner who preceded the Olympic silver medallist as the country’s top miler: Alan Webb. "I was happy to hear that Bernard had officially become a U.S. citizen," said the 22-year-old Webb, last year's U.S. Olympic Trials champion. Echoing many of the sentiments Lagat acknowledged when announcing his decision, Webb added, "But since he has lived in the U.S. so long, gone to an NCAA college, and been a friend to me, he has been an American all along." More in TRACK PROFILE Report #283...
13-May
TPR #282 - One Year Later, Athletes Still Waiting on Paychecks from Santo Domingo
More than 12 months after last year's Gran Prix Cristobal de Leon meeting in Santo Domingo, athletes are still waiting to collect nearly $25,000 in prize money owed to them by organizers in the Dominican Republic, according to the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC). More in TRACK PROFILE Report #282...
13-May
Feature: Time to Deliver For Alan Webb
A look back and ahead for U.S. miler Alan Webb. "Some of the pressure’s gone away," he said, "but the great thing about last year is that now it’s a different kind of pressure. There are new expectations. I finally moved on and it’s closer. It’s happening." A feature for the IAAF Magazine...
13-May
Feature: New Tactics Needed for Bungei’s Quest
Middle distance ace Wilfred Bungei usually spends the autumn and early winter months far removed from the spotlight he’s become accustomed to, choosing instead the solitude required for his rigorous end-of-the-year training regimen. His lead-up to the 2005 season, however, couldn’t have been more different. A feature for the IAAF Magazine...
12-May
TPR #281 - In 05, Robinson Looking at 'The Bigger Picture'
When skimming the modest results from last month’s Azusa Pacific Meet of Champions, one performance in particular jumped out from that traditional early spring west coast competition: Khadevis Robinson’s 1:45.24 season opener, a win by more than five seconds, and the fastest ever outdoor debut for the 28-year-old American 800 meter journeyman. "It’s always good to open a season fast," said Robinson, adding that he was surprised with the performance. "I just executed the race plan. I felt I was in good shape, but I didn’t really rest up for the race.". More in TRACK PROFILE Report #281...
11-May
TPR #280 - Powell, Wariner Set for Ostrava
Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell and Olympic 400 meter champion Jeremy Wariner will begin their European season campaigns at the Golden Spike Super Grand Prix in Ostrava, Czech Republic, on Thursday, June 9, organizers announced this week. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #280...
11-May
TPR #279 - De la Ossa, Prokopcuka Added to BUPA Great Manchester Run Field
Spaniard Juan Carlos de la Ossa and Jelena Prokopcuka of Latvia, the surprise winners at last weekend's BUPA Great Caledonian Run, will aim to keep their U.K. road race momentum going at the BUPA Great Manchester Run on Sunday, May 22. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #279...
11-May
TPR #278 - Kozmus to Miss 2005 Season
Olympic hammer throw finalist Primož Kozmus of Slovenia will miss the 2005 season due to a back injury, STA, the Slovenian Press Agency reported. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #278...
11-May
TPR #277 - Campbell 'Satisfied' With World-Leading 200m Debut
Overshadowed by compatriot Asafa Powell’s blazing 9.84 100 meter victory at the Jamaica International last Saturday, Jamaica’s Olympic 200 meter champion Veronica Campbell nonetheless claimed a bit of the limelight as well with her world-leading 22.53 victory. "I’m satisfied," Campbell said after extending her unbeaten streak in the event to 26. "It’s a good way to start the season." Her win streak, currently the longest in athletics, began on April 1, 2000, also in Kingston. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #277...
11-May
TPR #276 - Men's 1500, Women's Steeplechase to Highlight Minnesota Distance Invitational
Top notch fields in the men's 1500 and women's steeplechase will gather at the inaugural Minnesota Distance Invitational at Macalester College in St. Paul on Saturday, May 21. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #276...
08-May
TPR #275 - Asafa Powell: Easing to his 9.84 'Cost me the World Record'
After his 9.84 win at the Jamaica International last night in Kingston --the fastest 100 meter performance in the world since Tim Montgomery’s 9.78 world record in 2002-- Asafa Powell was certainly pleased. And not only because he tied Canadians Donovan Bailey and Bruny Surin as the third-fastest sprinter ever, while lowering his own national record in the process. The 22-year-old Jamaican was content because he’s quite certain he can go much faster. "In the last 15 meters I eased up," he said. "Yeah," he added with a faint laugh, "for sure that cost me the world record." More in TRACK PROFILE Report #275...
06-May
TPR #274 - Inaugural Reebok Grand Prix Set for New York on June
After months of rumors, it's official: the inaugural edition of the Reebok Grand Prix athletics meeting is set to take place on Saturday, June 11 at the new Icahn Stadium on Randall's Island in New York City, organizers announced today. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #274...
04-May
Reuters: Gatlin (and others) Concerned About New False Start Proposal
Olympic 100 meters champion Justin Gatlin is among several leading athletes concerned about a proposed new false start rule which would result in instant disqualification for any athlete beating the gun. At present athletes are allowed one false start, which is charged to the entire field. Any runners subsequently offending are then disqualified. "I wouldn't say I'm against it but I think the (current) system works more efficiently," Gatlin said. "Just a flinch or a leg cramp could cost you a year's worth of work."
More...
03-May
TPR #273 - Fenn to Miss 2005 Season
Hobbled by a knee problem, British 800 meter runner Jo Fenn will be sidelined for the entire 2005 season. After keyhole surgery to her left knee last weekend, the 30-year-old has been advised not to compete at all this summer, and to focus instead on the 2006 Commonwealth Games. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #273...
03-May
TPR #272 - Kiprop, Top Spaniards Fill Out BUPA Great Caledonian Run Field
Boniface Kiprop, Juan Carlos de la Ossa and Jose Manuel Martinez have been added to the field for Sunday's BUPA Great Caledonian Run in Edinburgh, Scotland, organizers announced today.. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #272...
28-April
TPR #271 - Clay's Quest for Consistency
With just a month to go before his first decathlon of the season, Bryan Clay has to be feeling pretty good. Because he honestly has a difficult time saying which of the ten events he considers to be his strongest. "It’s getting tough to say," the Olympic silver medallist said. "I’m getting pretty good in a lot of them." More in TRACK PROFILE Report #271 and for the IAAF......
27-April
TPR #270 - Track & Field Remains Most Tested Sport by USADA
Track & Field remains the most tested sport by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), according to first quarter figures for 2005 released by the agency yesterday. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #270...
27-April
TPR #269 - As Season Dawns, Gatlin Hungry for More
Leaving Athens last summer with a complete collection of medals –-gold in the 100, silver in the 400 meter relay and bronze in the 200-- was just the tip of the proverbial iceberg for Justin Gatlin. This summer he hopes to do the same, if not better, at the World Championships in Helsinki. The engaging 23-year-old doesn’t hesitate when asked if his summer plans include contesting both dashes in the Finnish capital. "Most definitely," he said. "I'm not a complete athlete unless I can go out there and compete in two races." More in TRACK PROFILE Report #269 and for the IAAF......
26-April
TPR #268 - Lauryn Williams: 'It's going to take a personal best to win the world title
Much has changed for Lauryn Williams since she captured the silver medal in the 100 meters at last summer’s Olympic Games. Off the track, she’s more recognized, she’s since bought a house, got a new car, and a Great Dane, one named, appropriately enough, Atheena. On the track, things are different too. "There’s more pressure now," the 21-year-old said. "There’s a lot to live up to, being the fastest women in the USA." More in TRACK PROFILE Report #268...
22-April
TPR #267 - adidas Returns as Home Depot Meet Sponsor, Wariner to Headline
Just a few days after the formal announcement that adidas had ended its decade-long backing of the Oregon Track Classic, the global footwear and apparel company made a quick return with yesterday's announcement that it has become title sponsor of the May 22 adidas Track Classic in Carson, California, formerly known as The Home Depot Center Invitational. 2004 Olympic 400 meter champion Jeremy Wariner, Olympic 200 meter silver medallist Allyson Felix and 100 meter bronze medallist Maurice Greene, all key adidas-sponsored athletes, were announced as starters. More in TRACK PROFILE Report #267...
20-April
TPR #266 - Olympic Champion Campbell 'Taking a Stronger Approach' to 2005
It didn’t take Veronica Campbell long to pick up where she left off.
Last September, the 22-year-old Jamai
