IAAF agree changes to sprint starts
Thursday, 2 August 2001 11:14The International Association of Athletics Federations has agreed to implement controversial changes to the starting procedures for sprint events up to and including 400 metres. At its Congress meeting yesterday, the proposal was passed by 81 votes to 74 to introduce the policy of allowing only one false start per race with any athlete subsequently false starting being immediately disqualified. Four members abstained from voting.
The new rule will not be introduced until January 1, 2003, which will give athletes time to adapt. However, the majority of sprint athletes have opposed the proposal. Former world 5,000m record holder David Moorcroft, now chief executive of UK Athletics commented: "The implications are vast. But it is a rule change approved by Council and sacrosanct. Now we need to educate our athletes and help them get used to it. We are also going to have to train our starters so they are uniformal."
Craig Masback, chief executive officer of US Track and Field, also voted against the motion. "As a former television commentator, I personally think false starts add excitement, drama and tension to sprint races. It makes the event more compelling. But what I think is bad about this decision is that the World Athletics body has given no chance to the athletes to comment as to what they think. This is unfortunate."
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
