World Athletics Day is celebrated every year globally in May to raise awareness about the importance of fitness and encourage them to play sports, especially athletics.

The day was first introduced in 1996 by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF)—now known as World Athletics—the international governing body for athletics.

The IAAF organises various events, tournaments, and competitions in schools and colleges, but it was stopped in 2020 owing to Covid pandemic

When is World Athletics Day celebrated?

In 2022, World Athletics Day will be celebrated on May 6. Last year, it was observed on May 7. The date is subject to change and is announced by World Athletics every year.

&nbsp;History of World Athletics Day

In 1996, World&nbsp;Athletics&nbsp;Day was started by the then IAAF President Primo Nebiolo. The World Athletics federation and an international governing body for the field of athletics, IAAF, organises and sponsors this day every year since then, with a focus on fitness and health.&nbsp;

Significance&nbsp;of World Athletics Day

World Athletics Day allows schools, colleges and various other institutions to promote their students’ interests in several athletic sports, from running to shot put, which require strength and stamina. The IAAF sponsors and organises these events. However, this has been disrupted in recent times owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A key goal of World Athletics is to establish athletics as the top sport in schools globally in terms of participation. The federation believes schools are the best place to promote physical activity and that no other environment can compete with schools in terms of their ability to nurture and coach youngsters.

The federation believes athletics is a core sport that develops children in a well-rounded way and allows them to flourish in other physical activity, and that athletics must be made central to schools' sport programmes.

Objectives of&nbsp;World Athletics Day

<ul>
	<li>Popularising sports among the youth</li>
	<li>Giving a boost to Athletics and making it the primary sport in schools and institutions</li>
	<li>Increasing public awareness about sports and&nbsp;imparting education to youngsters about the importance of sports</li>
	<li>To establish an important link between the youth, sport, and environmental conservation</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

World Athletics Day is celebrated every year globally in May to raise awareness about the importance of fitness and encourage them to play sports, especially athletics.

World Athletics Day is celebrated every year globally in May to raise awareness about the importance of fitness and encourage them to play sports, especially athletics. The day was first introduced in 1996 by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF)—now known as World Athletics—the international governing body for athletics. The IAAF organises various events, tournaments, and competitions in schools and colleges, but it was stopped in 2020 owing to Covid pandemic When is World Athletics Day celebrated? In 2022, World Athletics Day will be celebrated on May 6. Last year, it was observed on May 7. The date is subject to change and is announced by World Athletics every year. History of World Athletics Day In 1996, World Athletics Day was started by the then IAAF President Primo Nebiolo. The World Athletics federation and an international governing body for the field of athletics, IAAF, organises and sponsors this day every year since then, with a focus on fitness and health. Significance of World Athletics Day World Athletics Day allows schools, colleges and various other institutions to promote their students’ interests in several athletic sports, from running to shot put, which require strength and stamina. The IAAF sponsors and organises these events. However, this has been disrupted in recent times owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. A key goal of World Athletics is to establish athletics as the top sport in schools globally in terms of participation. The federation believes schools are the best place to promote physical activity and that no other environment can compete with schools in terms of their ability to nurture and coach youngsters. The federation believes athletics is a core sport that develops children in a well-rounded way and allows them to flourish in other physical activity, and that athletics must be made central to schools' sport programmes. Objectives of World Athletics Day Popularising sports among the youth Giving a boost to Athletics and making it the primary sport in schools and institutions Increasing public awareness about sports and imparting education to youngsters about the importance of sports To establish an important link between the youth, sport, and environmental conservation (With inputs from agencies)

World Athletics Day 2022: History, significance, everything you need to know

Athletes from Ukraine and other nations have called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia and Belarus and ban their athletes from events immediately.

Ukraine's health ministry said on Sunday that 352 civilians, including 14 children, had been killed since Russia's invasion of the country last week.

Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation".

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"Russia's invasion of Ukraine, supported by Belarus, is a clear breach of the Olympic and Paralympic Charters -- a breach that must be met with strong sanctions," the athletes said in an open letter to IOC President Thomas Bach and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) chief Andrew Parsons.

The letter, released by the Global Athlete movement, which aims to empower athletes, said that Ukrainian sportspeople and their families in the country were in "grave danger" and it had been a challenge to speak to them as they were in bomb shelters.

It added that refusing to take swift action and suspend the National Olympic Committees of Russia and Belarus would send the wrong message.

"Your lack of action will send a message to every athlete in the world that you have chosen Russia and Belarus interests over athlete interests. Your legacy will be defined by your actions," the letter said.

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The letter received widespread support, including from British former marathon runner Paula Radcliffe and Canadian former cross-country skier Beckie Scott.

The IOC has said international sports federations should either move or cancel sports events currently planned in Russia or Belarus, while the IOC's executive said Russian and Belarusian national flags should not be displayed at international sports events.

Athletes from Ukraine and other nations have called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia and Belarus and ban their athletes from events immediately.

Athletes from Ukraine and other nations have called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to suspend Russia and Belarus and ban their athletes from events immediately. Ukraine's health ministry said on Sunday that 352 civilians, including 14 children, had been killed since Russia's invasion of the country last week. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation". ALSO READ: FIFA bans matches in Russia following Ukraine crisis, no flag or anthem for team "Russia's invasion of Ukraine, supported by Belarus, is a clear breach of the Olympic and Paralympic Charters -- a breach that must be met with strong sanctions," the athletes said in an open letter to IOC President Thomas Bach and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) chief Andrew Parsons. The letter, released by the Global Athlete movement, which aims to empower athletes, said that Ukrainian sportspeople and their families in the country were in "grave danger" and it had been a challenge to speak to them as they were in bomb shelters. It added that refusing to take swift action and suspend the National Olympic Committees of Russia and Belarus would send the wrong message. "Your lack of action will send a message to every athlete in the world that you have chosen Russia and Belarus interests over athlete interests. Your legacy will be defined by your actions," the letter said. ALSO READ: Premier League: Leeds United part ways with head coach Marcelo Bielsa The letter received widespread support, including from British former marathon runner Paula Radcliffe and Canadian former cross-country skier Beckie Scott. The IOC has said international sports federations should either move or cancel sports events currently planned in Russia or Belarus, while the IOC's executive said Russian and Belarusian national flags should not be displayed at international sports events.

Ukrainian athletes calls on IOC, IPC to suspend Russia, Belarus

Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare has been banned for 10 years for doping and refusing to co-operate with the investigation, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Friday.

Okagbare, who won silver in the long jump at the Beijing 2008 Games, was provisionally suspended last year after testing positive for human growth hormone before the Tokyo Olympics and later hit with three separate anti-doping charges.

The 33-year-old had competed in the 100m heats in Tokyo on July 31 and was due to run in the semi-final before being suspended.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-olympics-braisaz-bouchet-overcomes-rough-shooting-conditions-wins-gold-in-125-km-mass-start-454361">Beijing Olympics: Braisaz-Bouchet overcomes rough shooting conditions, wins gold in 12.5 km mass start</a>

"The Disciplinary Tribunal has banned Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for a total of 10 years, five years for the presence and use of multiple prohibited substances and five years for her refusal to co-operate with the AIU's investigation into her case," AIU said in a statement

Okagbare also won silver in the long jump at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, while also securing a bronze in the 200m at the same event.

"We welcome the decision of the Disciplinary Tribunal; a ban of 10-years is a strong message against intentional and coordinated attempts to cheat at the very highest level of our sport," added Brett Clothier, head of the AIU.

Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare has been banned for 10 years for doping and refusing to co-operate with the investigation, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Friday.

Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare has been banned for 10 years for doping and refusing to co-operate with the investigation, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Friday. Okagbare, who won silver in the long jump at the Beijing 2008 Games, was provisionally suspended last year after testing positive for human growth hormone before the Tokyo Olympics and later hit with three separate anti-doping charges. The 33-year-old had competed in the 100m heats in Tokyo on July 31 and was due to run in the semi-final before being suspended. ALSO READ: Beijing Olympics: Braisaz-Bouchet overcomes rough shooting conditions, wins gold in 12.5 km mass start "The Disciplinary Tribunal has banned Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for a total of 10 years, five years for the presence and use of multiple prohibited substances and five years for her refusal to co-operate with the AIU's investigation into her case," AIU said in a statement Okagbare also won silver in the long jump at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, while also securing a bronze in the 200m at the same event. "We welcome the decision of the Disciplinary Tribunal; a ban of 10-years is a strong message against intentional and coordinated attempts to cheat at the very highest level of our sport," added Brett Clothier, head of the AIU.

Athletics Integrity Unit bans Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for 10 years under doping charges

In Rome Olympics 1960,&nbsp;Milkha Singh hunched in the beginning squares and situated himself for the most crucial race of his vocation. He inclined forward, hands-on knees, got set and flooded into a run. He got off to a touchy beginning yet a blunder in judgment in the end phases of the race cost him a spot on the podium.&nbsp;

Milkha Singh charged his way across the 400m race however could just get done with a period of 45.6s. Outfitted with the ideal creation of speed and ability, Milkha Singh was bound to conquer Indian athletics. He may have missed the mark concerning a platform finish, yet his endeavours brought him near donning interminability among Indian fans.

Milkha Singh's unique accomplishments established him as the country's best Olympic-style sports competitor of his age. Well before his standout endeavours on the Olympic stage, Milkha Singh had effectively set the bar high with four Asian golds and a first-since forever Commonwealth Games gold award in 1958.&nbsp;

<h2>45.8. </h2>

Individuals who know Milkha Singh, know the digits and their importance. Subsequent to neglecting to qualify for the Melbourne Olympics, he went to his mentor and requests that he set up the world account for the 400m. His mentor records it's anything but a tissue paper – 45.8 and this paper stays with Milkha Singh till he realizes he can accomplish that digit.&nbsp;

This is a consolation to that load of athletes who are made to compose their objectives and stick them in their rooms. Continuously keep the objectives noticeable and above all – quantifiable and explicit.

Milkha Singh was a skilled competitor as well as self-spurred and enthusiastic simultaneously. It is difficult to envision an individual who had lost a large portion of his family due to collective uproars to channel all his concentration and enthusiasm towards turning into an extraordinary competitor. Milkha Singh conquered this load of obstacles to get perhaps the most commended competitors of his time.

An early 90's generation was fortunate to see the man, the myth and the legend perform live in front of their eyes, but the late '90s and early 2000 generation were introduced to this legend by the movie 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag'&nbsp;

It may sound abnormal that the prize which allured Milkha Singh to get his first-historically speaking success, was only a glass of milk. Yet, we are discussing an exceptional legend who experienced childhood is not exactly a remarkable time where individuals contended energetically to meet their fundamental requirements.&nbsp;

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a biopic dependent on the existence of Indian legend and previous competitor Milkha Singh. Like the wide range of various great biopics, even this film is brimming with agony, disillusionment, fortitude and win.&nbsp;

This film probably won't be the biopic you expected however it has its own appeal. It requires some investment, causes you to harp on a rousing story, and leaves you with a lot of goosebumps.

To achieve the most noteworthy wonder regardless of a particularly grievous past is a superb accomplishment in itself. The mentality and lucidity not long before the race, where they show him picturing how he covers the whole track in a millisecond, are like the strategies utilized by most Olympic medallists to clear things first in the brain an amazing procedure to persuade your psyche and self. It helps in fostering a never-say-die say die attitude demeanour inside the competitor.

It has been more than fifty years since the Flying Sikh made a taking-off passage into the athletic spotlight. In any case, after such a long time, it is as yet the flying Sikh who stays the most withstanding and authoritative memory of athletic greatness for Indians. An endless supply of athletes has tried to copy the extraordinary man, just to miss the mark in their journey.&nbsp;

Milkha Singh consistently accepted that it is vital to be energetic about what you do. He believed coarseness and assurance to be key boundaries that make you a major sportsperson as opposed to your ability. The devotion and enthusiasm that Milkha Singh showed to accomplish his objectives were one of the primary reasons that athletics got famous in India.

Not exclusively was Milkha Singh an incredible sprinter, he was likewise an exemplary person with a heart to coordinate with his running abilities. He parted with every one of his valued belongings for a show at galleries the nation over. It is his loved dream that an Indian successes an Olympic award in sports before his flight to another heavenly abode.

Allow us to trust that the all-around recounted story of this committed and energetic athlete rings in the hearts of considerably more youngsters who can lift themselves to accomplish worldwide greatness for the country.&nbsp;Milkha Singh had a dream of India turning into a force to be reckoned with in the realm of sports. He needed to live his fantasy by watching the Indian Olympic unforeseen accomplish more noteworthy statures at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;

But, as destiny would have it, Milkha Singh would not be with us to see his dream acknowledged.

The name Milkha Singh will keep on rousing ages. Find happiness in the hereafter and Rest in Peace, legend!

In Rome Olympics 1960, Milkha Singh hunched in the beginning squares and situated himself for the most crucial race of his vocation. He inclined forward, hands-on knees, got set and flooded into a run.

In Rome Olympics 1960, Milkha Singh hunched in the beginning squares and situated himself for the most crucial race of his vocation. He inclined forward, hands-on knees, got set and flooded into a run. He got off to a touchy beginning yet a blunder in judgment in the end phases of the race cost him a spot on the podium. Milkha Singh charged his way across the 400m race however could just get done with a period of 45.6s. Outfitted with the ideal creation of speed and ability, Milkha Singh was bound to conquer Indian athletics. He may have missed the mark concerning a platform finish, yet his endeavours brought him near donning interminability among Indian fans. Milkha Singh's unique accomplishments established him as the country's best Olympic-style sports competitor of his age. Well before his standout endeavours on the Olympic stage, Milkha Singh had effectively set the bar high with four Asian golds and a first-since forever Commonwealth Games gold award in 1958. 45.8. Individuals who know Milkha Singh, know the digits and their importance. Subsequent to neglecting to qualify for the Melbourne Olympics, he went to his mentor and requests that he set up the world account for the 400m. His mentor records it's anything but a tissue paper – 45.8 and this paper stays with Milkha Singh till he realizes he can accomplish that digit. This is a consolation to that load of athletes who are made to compose their objectives and stick them in their rooms. Continuously keep the objectives noticeable and above all – quantifiable and explicit. Milkha Singh was a skilled competitor as well as self-spurred and enthusiastic simultaneously. It is difficult to envision an individual who had lost a large portion of his family due to collective uproars to channel all his concentration and enthusiasm towards turning into an extraordinary competitor. Milkha Singh conquered this load of obstacles to get perhaps the most commended competitors of his time. An early 90's generation was fortunate to see the man, the myth and the legend perform live in front of their eyes, but the late '90s and early 2000 generation were introduced to this legend by the movie 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' It may sound abnormal that the prize which allured Milkha Singh to get his first-historically speaking success, was only a glass of milk. Yet, we are discussing an exceptional legend who experienced childhood is not exactly a remarkable time where individuals contended energetically to meet their fundamental requirements. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a biopic dependent on the existence of Indian legend and previous competitor Milkha Singh. Like the wide range of various great biopics, even this film is brimming with agony, disillusionment, fortitude and win. This film probably won't be the biopic you expected however it has its own appeal. It requires some investment, causes you to harp on a rousing story, and leaves you with a lot of goosebumps. To achieve the most noteworthy wonder regardless of a particularly grievous past is a superb accomplishment in itself. The mentality and lucidity not long before the race, where they show him picturing how he covers the whole track in a millisecond, are like the strategies utilized by most Olympic medallists to clear things first in the brain an amazing procedure to persuade your psyche and self. It helps in fostering a never-say-die say die attitude demeanour inside the competitor. It has been more than fifty years since the Flying Sikh made a taking-off passage into the athletic spotlight. In any case, after such a long time, it is as yet the flying Sikh who stays the most withstanding and authoritative memory of athletic greatness for Indians. An endless supply of athletes has tried to copy the extraordinary man, just to miss the mark in their journey. Milkha Singh consistently accepted that it is vital to be energetic about what you do. He believed coarseness and assurance to be key boundaries that make you a major sportsperson as opposed to your ability. The devotion and enthusiasm that Milkha Singh showed to accomplish his objectives were one of the primary reasons that athletics got famous in India. Not exclusively was Milkha Singh an incredible sprinter, he was likewise an exemplary person with a heart to coordinate with his running abilities. He parted with every one of his valued belongings for a show at galleries the nation over. It is his loved dream that an Indian successes an Olympic award in sports before his flight to another heavenly abode. Allow us to trust that the all-around recounted story of this committed and energetic athlete rings in the hearts of considerably more youngsters who can lift themselves to accomplish worldwide greatness for the country. Milkha Singh had a dream of India turning into a force to be reckoned with in the realm of sports. He needed to live his fantasy by watching the Indian Olympic unforeseen accomplish more noteworthy statures at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. But, as destiny would have it, Milkha Singh would not be with us to see his dream acknowledged. The name Milkha Singh will keep on rousing ages. Find happiness in the hereafter and Rest in Peace, legend!

Milkha Singh, the Flying Sikh! An absolute legend of Indian sport

Neeraj Chopra made the headlines this year when he became the first-ever Indian to win an Olympic medal for the country in athletics during the Tokyo 2020. The 23-year-old javelin thrower returned with the elusive gold in his first-ever appearance in an Olympic events during Tokyo Games. Since then, he has become a household name in the country.

From time to time, fans try their best to catch a glimpse of Neeraj. The javelin thrower has won hearts not only for his heroics in his field of sport, but he has also found a place in everyone's hearts with his generous and simple nature. While he remains a bit shy, there's a throwback video of the javelin thrower where he went all-out while dancing in his hometown. Check out the video:&nbsp;

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Identify Desi Chora ? <a href="https://t.co/2177idQc2G">pic.twitter.com/2177idQc2G</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-gold-medalist-neeraj-chopra-says-honoured-to-be-presented-khel-ratna-with-grandfather-in-attendance-429149">Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra says honoured to be presented Khel Ratna with grandfather in attendance</a>

For the unversed, Neeraj's throw of 87.58m was enough to win him gold in the men's javelin throw final in Tokyo 2020. However, the youngster isn't content and wants to better his own record. "In javelin, the distances always vary from event to event. Yes the expectations have gone up (for breaching the 90m mark), and I believe the day hopefully isn't too far. Again it all depends on how the body responds on the day of the competition, as I believe in giving my 100 percent in every tournament," he said while responding to a question from TOI recently.

He added, "I have already thrown 88.07m, so it is a matter of a couple of metres, but the entire process depends on your overall fitness and the conditions where you are throwing. In the last couple of years, I was in great rhythm but somehow fell short of the mark. Hope to get to it soon."

Neeraj Chopra made the headlines this year when he became the first-ever Indian to win an Olympic medal for the country in athletics during the Tokyo 2020. The 23-year-old javelin thrower returned with the elusive gold in his first-ever appearance in an Olympic events during Tokyo Games.

Neeraj Chopra made the headlines this year when he became the first-ever Indian to win an Olympic medal for the country in athletics during the Tokyo 2020. The 23-year-old javelin thrower returned with the elusive gold in his first-ever appearance in an Olympic events during Tokyo Games. Since then, he has become a household name in the country. From time to time, fans try their best to catch a glimpse of Neeraj. The javelin thrower has won hearts not only for his heroics in his field of sport, but he has also found a place in everyone's hearts with his generous and simple nature. While he remains a bit shy, there's a throwback video of the javelin thrower where he went all-out while dancing in his hometown. Check out the video: Identify Desi Chora ? pic.twitter.com/2177idQc2G — Tajinder Pal Singh Bagga (@TajinderBagga) August 9, 2021 × ALSO READ | Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra says honoured to be presented Khel Ratna with grandfather in attendance For the unversed, Neeraj's throw of 87.58m was enough to win him gold in the men's javelin throw final in Tokyo 2020. However, the youngster isn't content and wants to better his own record. "In javelin, the distances always vary from event to event. Yes the expectations have gone up (for breaching the 90m mark), and I believe the day hopefully isn't too far. Again it all depends on how the body responds on the day of the competition, as I believe in giving my 100 percent in every tournament," he said while responding to a question from TOI recently. He added, "I have already thrown 88.07m, so it is a matter of a couple of metres, but the entire process depends on your overall fitness and the conditions where you are throwing. In the last couple of years, I was in great rhythm but somehow fell short of the mark. Hope to get to it soon."

THROWBACK: When Neeraj Chopra danced like there was no tomorrow before Tokyo 2020 blitz - Watch

Marathon world record holder and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge hopes that technology will take "centre stage" as athletes strive for improvement and chase faster times in the future. 
 
The Kenyan, who overcame humid conditions in Tokyo earlier this month to claim gold in the marathon, was among a host of runners who ran in specially designed Nike shoes fitted with carbon-fibre plates for more spring and quicker times, once again rekindling a debate around "technological doping". 
 
"If we don`t embrace technology then we are not moving... I know regulations will be there but technology should take centre stage," Kipchoge told Reuters. 
 
"Let all athletes have top technology, have top innovation. That`s the only way to think and actually try to improve your performance." 
 
Other athletes such as Karsten Warholm, who won the Olympic 400 metres hurdles title in world record time, have been critical of rapidly advancing shoe technology. 
 
"When somebody does a great performance now, everybody will question if it`s the shoe, and that is the credibility problem," the Norwegian told Reuters earlier this month. 
 
Kipchoge`s footwear played a big part in him becoming the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in 2019, a remarkable feat that is now the subject of a new documentary, "Kipchoge: The Last Milestone". 
 
The film chronicles how Kipchoge worked with scientists and a group of fellow elite runners to run in an unofficial world record time of one hour, 59 minutes and 40 seconds in Vienna two years ago, an achievement many thought was impossible. 
 
The 36-year-old said that his message of "no human is limited" extends beyond sport as he looks to inspire people from all walks of life. 
 
"(This) is a huge message, not actually facing sportsmen and sportswomen alone. It`s all around, it touches every profession... my lasting legacy will be purely about inspiration because that`s what I want to drive in the mind of every human being in this world." 
 
Kipchoge added that retirement was not on his mind as he was motivated to keep chasing titles by athletes who were still competitive well into their 30s and even 40s. 
 
"I am being inspired by many people, the footballers, (Cristiano) Ronaldo is doing well (at 36), (Lewis) Hamilton is still very sharp as far as Formula One is concerned, Valentino Rossi is driving in the MotoGP at 42," said Kipchoge. 
 
"For now I have to rest, pick up training in September and plan what next... I am enjoying what happened in Tokyo for now. So I`m mixing rest and enjoying the medal. But all in all there are still good things in the future."

Marathon world record holder and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge hopes that technology will take "centre stage" as athletes strive for improvement and chase faster times in the future.

Marathon world record holder and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge hopes that technology will take "centre stage" as athletes strive for improvement and chase faster times in the future. The Kenyan, who overcame humid conditions in Tokyo earlier this month to claim gold in the marathon, was among a host of runners who ran in specially designed Nike shoes fitted with carbon-fibre plates for more spring and quicker times, once again rekindling a debate around "technological doping". "If we don`t embrace technology then we are not moving... I know regulations will be there but technology should take centre stage," Kipchoge told Reuters. "Let all athletes have top technology, have top innovation. That`s the only way to think and actually try to improve your performance." Other athletes such as Karsten Warholm, who won the Olympic 400 metres hurdles title in world record time, have been critical of rapidly advancing shoe technology. "When somebody does a great performance now, everybody will question if it`s the shoe, and that is the credibility problem," the Norwegian told Reuters earlier this month. Kipchoge`s footwear played a big part in him becoming the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in 2019, a remarkable feat that is now the subject of a new documentary, "Kipchoge: The Last Milestone". The film chronicles how Kipchoge worked with scientists and a group of fellow elite runners to run in an unofficial world record time of one hour, 59 minutes and 40 seconds in Vienna two years ago, an achievement many thought was impossible. The 36-year-old said that his message of "no human is limited" extends beyond sport as he looks to inspire people from all walks of life. "(This) is a huge message, not actually facing sportsmen and sportswomen alone. It`s all around, it touches every profession... my lasting legacy will be purely about inspiration because that`s what I want to drive in the mind of every human being in this world." Kipchoge added that retirement was not on his mind as he was motivated to keep chasing titles by athletes who were still competitive well into their 30s and even 40s. "I am being inspired by many people, the footballers, (Cristiano) Ronaldo is doing well (at 36), (Lewis) Hamilton is still very sharp as far as Formula One is concerned, Valentino Rossi is driving in the MotoGP at 42," said Kipchoge. "For now I have to rest, pick up training in September and plan what next... I am enjoying what happened in Tokyo for now. So I`m mixing rest and enjoying the medal. But all in all there are still good things in the future."

Can't move forward without embracing technology, says Kipchoge

Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah won the women's 100 metres in the second-fastest time ever at the Eugene Diamond League, crossing the finishing line in 10.54 seconds on Saturday. 
 
Thompson-Herah, who completed a 100m-200m double for a second successive Olympics in Tokyo, said she surprised even herself at Hayward Field, beating Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce by nearly two-tenths of a second. Shericka Jackson finished third to repeat the Jamaicans' Tokyo podium sweep. 
 
"To come back with a (personal best) after the championships, that is amazing," said Thompson-Herah. "I haven't run that fast in five years." 
 
American Florence Griffith-Joyner is the only woman to have clocked a faster time over the distance, having set the world record of 10.49 seconds in 1988. 
 
Thompson-Herah was confident she could beat that time - and break the 200m record as well. 
 
"I have so much more in me, so yes, it's possible," she said. 
 
Sha'Carri Richardson's highly anticipated return to the track ended in frustration as the American finished last. She missed the Olympics because of a one-month suspension after testing positive for cannabis at the U.S. team trials in June. 
 
"Count me out if you want to," said Richardson, 21, insisting that she had more left to accomplish. "I'm here to stay." 
 
In the men's 100m event, Tokyo bronze medallist Andre de Grasse won in a wind-aided 9.74, with Americans Fred Kerley and Ronnie Baker finishing in 9.78 and 9.82, respectively. 
 
"I didn't feel like I really executed that day in the Olympic finals, I didn't get off the blocks," said de Grasse. "Today I feel like I did a good job of coming off the blocks and my transition was good so I knew it was going to be a good race after that." 
 
The meet saw speedy performances across the board, as American Noah Lyles surged out of the turn to win the men's 200 metres in a world-leading 19.52 seconds after finishing a disappointing third in Tokyo. 
 
"It's a tight little bow on the end of the season," said Lyles. "I feel like (after) five sessions of therapy I was able to let go of what happened in Tokyo." 
 
Olympic champion Athing Mu won the women's 800 metres in 1:55.04, her last race of the season in which she also won gold in the 4x400 relay. 
 
"I feel like I'm just running on a high, and just going back to back to back with things, I haven't really had time to sit down and actually embrace it," said the 19-year-old American. "So hopefully with the next couple of weeks I'll get to do that." 
 
With her key rival and world record holder Sydney McLaughlin absent, Tokyo silver medallist Dalilah Muhammad made light work of the 400 metres hurdles, winning by more than one second in 52.77. 
 
In the women's 3,000-metre steeplechase, Kenya's Norah Jeruto put up a world-leading 8:53.65 to win, as American Courtney Frerichs took second in 8:57.77 after winning silver in Tokyo. 
&nbsp;

Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah won the women's 100 metres in the second-fastest time ever at the Eugene Diamond League, crossing the finishing line in 10.

Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah won the women's 100 metres in the second-fastest time ever at the Eugene Diamond League, crossing the finishing line in 10.54 seconds on Saturday. Thompson-Herah, who completed a 100m-200m double for a second successive Olympics in Tokyo, said she surprised even herself at Hayward Field, beating Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce by nearly two-tenths of a second. Shericka Jackson finished third to repeat the Jamaicans' Tokyo podium sweep. "To come back with a (personal best) after the championships, that is amazing," said Thompson-Herah. "I haven't run that fast in five years." American Florence Griffith-Joyner is the only woman to have clocked a faster time over the distance, having set the world record of 10.49 seconds in 1988. Thompson-Herah was confident she could beat that time - and break the 200m record as well. "I have so much more in me, so yes, it's possible," she said. Sha'Carri Richardson's highly anticipated return to the track ended in frustration as the American finished last. She missed the Olympics because of a one-month suspension after testing positive for cannabis at the U.S. team trials in June. "Count me out if you want to," said Richardson, 21, insisting that she had more left to accomplish. "I'm here to stay." In the men's 100m event, Tokyo bronze medallist Andre de Grasse won in a wind-aided 9.74, with Americans Fred Kerley and Ronnie Baker finishing in 9.78 and 9.82, respectively. "I didn't feel like I really executed that day in the Olympic finals, I didn't get off the blocks," said de Grasse. "Today I feel like I did a good job of coming off the blocks and my transition was good so I knew it was going to be a good race after that." The meet saw speedy performances across the board, as American Noah Lyles surged out of the turn to win the men's 200 metres in a world-leading 19.52 seconds after finishing a disappointing third in Tokyo. "It's a tight little bow on the end of the season," said Lyles. "I feel like (after) five sessions of therapy I was able to let go of what happened in Tokyo." Olympic champion Athing Mu won the women's 800 metres in 1:55.04, her last race of the season in which she also won gold in the 4x400 relay. "I feel like I'm just running on a high, and just going back to back to back with things, I haven't really had time to sit down and actually embrace it," said the 19-year-old American. "So hopefully with the next couple of weeks I'll get to do that." With her key rival and world record holder Sydney McLaughlin absent, Tokyo silver medallist Dalilah Muhammad made light work of the 400 metres hurdles, winning by more than one second in 52.77. In the women's 3,000-metre steeplechase, Kenya's Norah Jeruto put up a world-leading 8:53.65 to win, as American Courtney Frerichs took second in 8:57.77 after winning silver in Tokyo.

Elaine Thompson-Herah posts second-fastest 100m ever in speedy Pre Classic

Indian athlete Amit Khatri on Saturday won the silver medal in 10,000m race walking event at the ongoing World Athletics U20 Championship in Nairobi.

Amit clocked 42 minutes 17.94 seconds to achieve the feat while Heristone Wanyonyi of Kenya clinched the gold after recording a time of 42.10.84.

This was India's second medal in the showpiece event having already won bronze in the 4x400m mixed relay team event on Wednesday.

This is for the first time India has won a medal in race walking and two medals in a single edition of the Championships.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-and-mohammed-sirajs-gesture-when-james-anderson-walked-out-to-bat-goes-viral-407417">Watch: Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj's gesture when James Anderson walked out to bat goes viral</a>

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🇮🇳's Amit wins 🥈in 10000m Race Walk with a time of 42:17.94 at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldAthleticsU20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldAthleticsU20</a> in Nairobi 
 
This is the 1st time India has won a medal in Race Walking and 2 medals in a single edition of the Championships 
 
Many congratulations Champ!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Athletics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Athletics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/YJeXduaE5x">pic.twitter.com/YJeXduaE5x</a>
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"Amit Kumar wins silver in 10000m Race Walk with a time of 42:17.94 at the #WorldAthleticsU20 in Nairobi. This is the 1st time India has won a medal in Race Walking and 2 medals in a single edition of the Championships. Many congratulations Champ!" SAIMedia tweeted.

The Indian quartet which consisted of Bharat Sridhar, Priya Mohan, Summy and Kapil finished third behind Nigeria and Poland with a timing of 3:20.60 seconds. The Indians bettered their heats time in the final. Notably, this was also the mixed event's debut at the U20 Worlds.

Meanwhile, National U20 record holder Shaili Singh was one of three women long jumper who secured automatic qualification, set at 6.35m, for the final when she leapt 6.40m on her third attempt on Friday.

She would have made the grade on the strength of her opening leap of 6.34m but chose to strain every sinew on her final attempt to gain the psychological edge going into Sunday's final.

Indian athlete Amit Khatri on Saturday won the silver medal in 10,000m race walking event at the ongoing World Athletics U20 Championship in Nairobi. Amit clocked 42 minutes 17.

Indian athlete Amit Khatri on Saturday won the silver medal in 10,000m race walking event at the ongoing World Athletics U20 Championship in Nairobi. Amit clocked 42 minutes 17.94 seconds to achieve the feat while Heristone Wanyonyi of Kenya clinched the gold after recording a time of 42.10.84. This was India's second medal in the showpiece event having already won bronze in the 4x400m mixed relay team event on Wednesday. This is for the first time India has won a medal in race walking and two medals in a single edition of the Championships. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj's gesture when James Anderson walked out to bat goes viral 🇮🇳's Amit wins 🥈in 10000m Race Walk with a time of 42:17.94 at the #WorldAthleticsU20 in Nairobi This is the 1st time India has won a medal in Race Walking and 2 medals in a single edition of the Championships Many congratulations Champ!#Athletics #IndianSports pic.twitter.com/YJeXduaE5x — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 21, 2021 × "Amit Kumar wins silver in 10000m Race Walk with a time of 42:17.94 at the #WorldAthleticsU20 in Nairobi. This is the 1st time India has won a medal in Race Walking and 2 medals in a single edition of the Championships. Many congratulations Champ!" SAIMedia tweeted. The Indian quartet which consisted of Bharat Sridhar, Priya Mohan, Summy and Kapil finished third behind Nigeria and Poland with a timing of 3:20.60 seconds. The Indians bettered their heats time in the final. Notably, this was also the mixed event's debut at the U20 Worlds. Meanwhile, National U20 record holder Shaili Singh was one of three women long jumper who secured automatic qualification, set at 6.35m, for the final when she leapt 6.40m on her third attempt on Friday. She would have made the grade on the strength of her opening leap of 6.34m but chose to strain every sinew on her final attempt to gain the psychological edge going into Sunday's final.

World Athletics U20 C'ship: India's Amit Khatri wins silver in 10,000m race walk

An admirable sporting spirit has prevailed at the Tokyo Games, with athletes grateful for the chance to compete amid a global pandemic.

But the ultra-competitive Olympians occasionally let the mask slip in the Games cauldron and here are a few quotes unlikely to appear on inspirational posters:&nbsp;

"It's a huge mental drain on me to go throughout the year (thinking) that I'm swimming in a race that's probably not clean, and that is what it is."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Tokyo Olympics 2020 closing day, LIVE UPDATES: Final events underway followed by ceremony">Tokyo Olympics 2020 closing day, LIVE UPDATES: Final events underway followed by ceremony</a>

American swimmer Ryan Murphy raises doping allegations after losing to Evgeny Rylov of Russia in the 200m backstrokes.&nbsp;

"How unnerving our victories are for some of our colleagues... the broken record is once again playing the song about Russia doping and someone is diligently pressing the button on the English-language propaganda."

The Russian Olympic Committee fires back in spectacular fashion&nbsp;

"America is sitting there rooting for the United States and then they have this clown show. I can't take it anymore. It's just unacceptable."

American track legend Carl Lewis unloads after the US 4x100m relay squad failed to make the final&nbsp;

"I was basically shouting because I was frustrated, not at Charlie but at the situation. I'm not at the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;to run into someone and crash"

Danish cyclist Frederik Madsen after crashing into Briton Charlie Tanfield in the men's team pursuit then yelling obscenities in his rival's face

"I don't see why you should put anything beneath a sprinting shoe. In the middle distance, I can understand it because of the cushioning. If you want to cushion, you can put a mattress there. But if you put a trampoline, I think it's bullshit."

Norway's 400m hurdles gold medallist Karsten Warholm questions the 'super spike' running shoe technology used by his beaten US rival Rai Benjamin

"People are allowed to be sick, that's what sick bags are for... who cares who... threw up, it's not World War III? Why is rugby being dragged through the mud?”

An unnamed Australian rugby sevens player talking to local media about allegations players drank excessively and vomited on their flight home from Tokyo.

An admirable sporting spirit has prevailed at the Tokyo Games, with athletes grateful for the chance to compete amid a global pandemic. But the ultra-competitive Olympians occasionally let the mask slip in the Games cauldron and here are a few quotes unlikely to appear on inspirational posters: "It's a huge mental drain on me to go throughout the year (thinking) that I'm swimming in a race that's probably not clean, and that is what it is.

An admirable sporting spirit has prevailed at the Tokyo Games, with athletes grateful for the chance to compete amid a global pandemic. But the ultra-competitive Olympians occasionally let the mask slip in the Games cauldron and here are a few quotes unlikely to appear on inspirational posters: "It's a huge mental drain on me to go throughout the year (thinking) that I'm swimming in a race that's probably not clean, and that is what it is." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020 closing day, LIVE UPDATES: Final events underway followed by ceremony American swimmer Ryan Murphy raises doping allegations after losing to Evgeny Rylov of Russia in the 200m backstrokes. "How unnerving our victories are for some of our colleagues... the broken record is once again playing the song about Russia doping and someone is diligently pressing the button on the English-language propaganda." The Russian Olympic Committee fires back in spectacular fashion "America is sitting there rooting for the United States and then they have this clown show. I can't take it anymore. It's just unacceptable." American track legend Carl Lewis unloads after the US 4x100m relay squad failed to make the final "I was basically shouting because I was frustrated, not at Charlie but at the situation. I'm not at the Olympics to run into someone and crash" Danish cyclist Frederik Madsen after crashing into Briton Charlie Tanfield in the men's team pursuit then yelling obscenities in his rival's face "I don't see why you should put anything beneath a sprinting shoe. In the middle distance, I can understand it because of the cushioning. If you want to cushion, you can put a mattress there. But if you put a trampoline, I think it's bullshit." Norway's 400m hurdles gold medallist Karsten Warholm questions the 'super spike' running shoe technology used by his beaten US rival Rai Benjamin "People are allowed to be sick, that's what sick bags are for... who cares who... threw up, it's not World War III? Why is rugby being dragged through the mud?” An unnamed Australian rugby sevens player talking to local media about allegations players drank excessively and vomited on their flight home from Tokyo.

Olympics 2020: Clowns and propaganda - best quotes of the Tokyo Games

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir won the Olympic women's marathon in Sapporo on Saturday, outduelling compatriot Brigid Kosgei in the final minutes and claiming her country's second consecutive gold medal in the event. 
 
Kosgei took silver and Molly Seidel of the United States, competing in just her third marathon after moving up from shorter distances, claimed bronze. 
 
Kenyans Kosgei, the world record holder, and world champion Ruth Chepngetich had been favourites to win gold on Saturday.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-when-and-where-to-watch-bajrang-punias-fight-for-bronze-in-65kg-freestyle-wrestling-403597">Tokyo Olympics: When and where to watch Bajrang Punia's fight for bronze in 65kg freestyle wrestling</a> 
 
But it was two-time world half marathon champion Jepchirchir who came out on top after breaking out of a virtual tie with Kosgei at the 40km mark where she decided to make her move. 
 
"When I was there I said, wow, I'm going to make it. So I pushed the pace because I knew I was going to win," Jepchirchir said. 
 
"I'm so, so happy because we win as Kenya, first and second ... I'm happy, for my family, happy for my country Kenya for supporting us."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-goalkeeper-sreejeshs-father-sold-a-family-cow-to-afford-a-hockey-kit-son-returns-with-olympic-bronze-403556">Hockey Goalkeeper Sreejesh’s Father sold a family cow to afford a Hockey Kit; son returns with Olympic bronze</a>

Jepchirchir finished with a time of 2:27:20, 16 seconds ahead of Kosgei and 26 seconds in front of Seidel. 
 
Battling hot and humid conditions, Chepngetich dropped out around the 30km mark, while Israel's Lonah Chemtai Salpeter dropped out at the 38km stage after looking like a strong contender for bronze. 
 
The race was moved to Sapporo from Tokyo ahead of the Games in an effort to beat the sweltering summer heat in the Japanese capital. But a heat wave has been sweeping the area, and even after rescheduling the race to begin an hour earlier at 6 a.m., temperatures had climbed from 26 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit) at the start of the race to 30 degrees (86 Fahrenheit) by 9 a.m. 
 
Sally Kipyego of the United States, who was with the leader's pack at the midway point but finished more than five minutes off the lead, said the heat was "absolutely" a factor. 
 
"I knew that I was really fit coming in, so that performance is nowhere close to my fitness. I know the heat had to play a role and I just thought I was going to cope better and I didn't," she said.

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir won the Olympic women's marathon in Sapporo on Saturday, outduelling compatriot Brigid Kosgei in the final minutes and claiming her country's second consecutive gold medal in the event.

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir won the Olympic women's marathon in Sapporo on Saturday, outduelling compatriot Brigid Kosgei in the final minutes and claiming her country's second consecutive gold medal in the event. Kosgei took silver and Molly Seidel of the United States, competing in just her third marathon after moving up from shorter distances, claimed bronze. Kenyans Kosgei, the world record holder, and world champion Ruth Chepngetich had been favourites to win gold on Saturday. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: When and where to watch Bajrang Punia's fight for bronze in 65kg freestyle wrestling But it was two-time world half marathon champion Jepchirchir who came out on top after breaking out of a virtual tie with Kosgei at the 40km mark where she decided to make her move. "When I was there I said, wow, I'm going to make it. So I pushed the pace because I knew I was going to win," Jepchirchir said. "I'm so, so happy because we win as Kenya, first and second ... I'm happy, for my family, happy for my country Kenya for supporting us." ALSO READ | Hockey Goalkeeper Sreejesh’s Father sold a family cow to afford a Hockey Kit; son returns with Olympic bronze Jepchirchir finished with a time of 2:27:20, 16 seconds ahead of Kosgei and 26 seconds in front of Seidel. Battling hot and humid conditions, Chepngetich dropped out around the 30km mark, while Israel's Lonah Chemtai Salpeter dropped out at the 38km stage after looking like a strong contender for bronze. The race was moved to Sapporo from Tokyo ahead of the Games in an effort to beat the sweltering summer heat in the Japanese capital. But a heat wave has been sweeping the area, and even after rescheduling the race to begin an hour earlier at 6 a.m., temperatures had climbed from 26 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit) at the start of the race to 30 degrees (86 Fahrenheit) by 9 a.m. Sally Kipyego of the United States, who was with the leader's pack at the midway point but finished more than five minutes off the lead, said the heat was "absolutely" a factor. "I knew that I was really fit coming in, so that performance is nowhere close to my fitness. I know the heat had to play a role and I just thought I was going to cope better and I didn't," she said.

Tokyo Olympics athletics: Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir wins women's marathon with late burst

Kenya's Emmanuel Korir won the Olympic men's 800 metres gold medal on Wednesday, extending the East African nation's dominance of an event they have now won four times in a row.

His compatriot Ferguson Rotich took silver and Patryk Dobek of Poland claimed the bronze.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-another-medal-assured-for-india-as-ravi-kumar-storms-into-finals-402799" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Another medal assured for India as Ravi Kumar storms into finals</a>

Kenya's double Olympic gold medallist David Rudisha's persistent injuries denied him the chance to defend his title, opening a path for a new champion to emerge and Korir powered his way to victory with a time of 1:45.06.

He spread his arms wide as he crossed the line as if to announce that he was ready to assume Rudisha's mantle as king of the 800 metres.

Arriving in Japan boasting the second leading time of the year, Korir began the race fast, moving up to second behind Australia's Peter Bol who set the early pace.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-australian-olympic-officials-criticise-athletes-after-unacceptable-plane-party-402759" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Australian Olympic officials criticise athletes after 'unacceptable' plane party</a>

Korir accelerated with 200 metres left and surged to the line ahead of Rotich, who pushed hard in the last 50m to make it a Kenyan one-two as he clocked 1:45.23.

Dobek's bronze was Poland's first Olympic medal in the 800m and first medal in an individual running event since 1980.

Kenya's Emmanuel Korir won the Olympic men's 800 metres gold medal on Wednesday, extending the East African nation's dominance of an event they have now won four times in a row.

Kenya's Emmanuel Korir won the Olympic men's 800 metres gold medal on Wednesday, extending the East African nation's dominance of an event they have now won four times in a row. His compatriot Ferguson Rotich took silver and Patryk Dobek of Poland claimed the bronze. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Another medal assured for India as Ravi Kumar storms into finals Kenya's double Olympic gold medallist David Rudisha's persistent injuries denied him the chance to defend his title, opening a path for a new champion to emerge and Korir powered his way to victory with a time of 1:45.06. He spread his arms wide as he crossed the line as if to announce that he was ready to assume Rudisha's mantle as king of the 800 metres. Arriving in Japan boasting the second leading time of the year, Korir began the race fast, moving up to second behind Australia's Peter Bol who set the early pace. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Australian Olympic officials criticise athletes after 'unacceptable' plane party Korir accelerated with 200 metres left and surged to the line ahead of Rotich, who pushed hard in the last 50m to make it a Kenyan one-two as he clocked 1:45.23. Dobek's bronze was Poland's first Olympic medal in the 800m and first medal in an individual running event since 1980.

Tokyo Olympics: Athletics - Emmanuel Korir extends Kenya's 800m dominance

India missed out on another Olympic medal in athletics after Kamalpreet Kaur missed the mark in the last of the Women's Discus Throw event.

Today, another Indian competitor attempted to add to India's medal count but failed to do so. Tajinderpal Singh Toor took the field for the men's shot put qualification round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-we-will-give-everything-again-says-real-coach-of-indian-womens-hockey-team-ahead-of-semis-402569" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: 'We will give everything again,' says 'Real Coach' of Indian women's hockey team ahead of semis</a>

Tajinderpal Singh Toor previously won a gold medal in men's shot put at the 2018 Asian Games. Although, he had a disillusioning excursion in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where he completed eighth.

The Tokyo Olympics Men's Shot Put Qualification round will highlight 32 participants, divided into groups of two of 16 members each. India's Tajinderpal Singh Toor was in Group A.

Tajinderpal Singh started&nbsp;with a 19.99m throw.

He was&nbsp;the number 1 in his group after five throws.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-argentina-womens-hockey-semifinal-match-402561" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: When and where to watch India vs Argentina women's hockey semifinal match</a>

Tajinderpal Singh Toor's second attempt was an invalid throw. Tajinderpal Singh contacted the whiteboard while throwing during his second attempt. Therefore, it was known as a foul.

Tajinderpal Singh Toor had to throw past the 21.20m mark to get a spot in the next round.

The Indian shot putter&nbsp;slipped to the 12th position after&nbsp;the first two attempts.&nbsp;

Tajinderpal Singh Toor committed another foul in the third attempt. Thus, a 19.99m throw in the first attempt and afterward two fouls from the Indian.

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Shot Putter Tajinder Pal Singh Toor is eliminated from the Men's Shot Put event after he finished 13th with a best effort of 19.99m in the Group A qualification round.
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It was highly improbable that Tajinderpal Singh Toor would make it to the medal round after completing the qualification round with a best throw of 19.99m

India missed out on another Olympic medal in athletics after Kamalpreet Kaur missed the mark in the last of the Women's Discus Throw event. Today, another Indian competitor attempted to add to India's medal count but failed to do so.

India missed out on another Olympic medal in athletics after Kamalpreet Kaur missed the mark in the last of the Women's Discus Throw event. Today, another Indian competitor attempted to add to India's medal count but failed to do so. Tajinderpal Singh Toor took the field for the men's shot put qualification round. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: 'We will give everything again,' says 'Real Coach' of Indian women's hockey team ahead of semis Tajinderpal Singh Toor previously won a gold medal in men's shot put at the 2018 Asian Games. Although, he had a disillusioning excursion in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where he completed eighth. The Tokyo Olympics Men's Shot Put Qualification round will highlight 32 participants, divided into groups of two of 16 members each. India's Tajinderpal Singh Toor was in Group A. Tajinderpal Singh started with a 19.99m throw. He was the number 1 in his group after five throws. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: When and where to watch India vs Argentina women's hockey semifinal match Tajinderpal Singh Toor's second attempt was an invalid throw. Tajinderpal Singh contacted the whiteboard while throwing during his second attempt. Therefore, it was known as a foul. Tajinderpal Singh Toor had to throw past the 21.20m mark to get a spot in the next round. The Indian shot putter slipped to the 12th position after the first two attempts. Tajinderpal Singh Toor committed another foul in the third attempt. Thus, a 19.99m throw in the first attempt and afterward two fouls from the Indian. Shot Putter Tajinder Pal Singh Toor is eliminated from the Men's Shot Put event after he finished 13th with a best effort of 19.99m in the Group A qualification round. — Athletics Federation of India (@afiindia) August 3, 2021 × It was highly improbable that Tajinderpal Singh Toor would make it to the medal round after completing the qualification round with a best throw of 19.99m

Tokyo Olympics: Tajinderpal Singh Toor fails to qualify for the men's shot put final

Nearly five years since he was carted off the track at the Rio Games with a torn Achilles, Trayvon Bromell attributes his remarkable comeback to one thing: An act of God.

The devoutly religious sprinter has endured a litany of injuries on and off the track in his 25 years: breaking both his knees and fracturing his arm and hip, before the pivotal injury in 2016 that threatened his career and sent him on a multiyear journey of recovery.

That he is even competing again after a two-year absence is a testament to his odds-defying will to succeed. That he's a favorite to win the 100-meters in Tokyo is enough to make a believer out of anyone.

"People want to make it all, you know, luck - No. Science - No. I'm sorry," he told Reuters ahead of the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials that kick off this week.

"Every doctor that I've seen these past couple of years has told me 'No, you will not be back in top form. You will not be able to run what you ran years prior.' And God said 'No'."

He rolls into Eugene, Oregon, this week with a world-leading time of 9.77 seconds in the men's 100 meters - the only event in which he will contend at the Trials - all but assuring him a spot on Team USA.

It's a tantalizing chance to fill the void left behind by Jamaica's Usain Bolt, who retired in 2017 with eight Olympic golds as the world's most famous and beloved sprinter.

But while the world of athletics eagerly awaits the coronation of a worthy heir to Bolt's legacy, Bromell made clear his focus is elsewhere.

"For me, personally, it's all about purpose. I'm not thinking about no medals. I'm not thinking about no times, I’m not thinking about what people see or none of that," said Bromell, who has adopted a strict "no days off" policy on the road to Tokyo.

It's an approach that has certainly paid off, as he clocked his second sub-10-second performance of the year last month at the Track Meet in Irvine, California.

"People don't understand, you can't stop moving. You can't just stop and get complacent. So for me, every day is a grind," he said.

"For me, every day is another day to be prepared for when God presents you with that opportunity."

The U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials begin Friday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

Nearly five years since he was carted off the track at the Rio Games with a torn Achilles, Trayvon Bromell attributes his remarkable comeback to one thing: An act of God.

Nearly five years since he was carted off the track at the Rio Games with a torn Achilles, Trayvon Bromell attributes his remarkable comeback to one thing: An act of God. The devoutly religious sprinter has endured a litany of injuries on and off the track in his 25 years: breaking both his knees and fracturing his arm and hip, before the pivotal injury in 2016 that threatened his career and sent him on a multiyear journey of recovery. That he is even competing again after a two-year absence is a testament to his odds-defying will to succeed. That he's a favorite to win the 100-meters in Tokyo is enough to make a believer out of anyone. "People want to make it all, you know, luck - No. Science - No. I'm sorry," he told Reuters ahead of the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials that kick off this week. "Every doctor that I've seen these past couple of years has told me 'No, you will not be back in top form. You will not be able to run what you ran years prior.' And God said 'No'." He rolls into Eugene, Oregon, this week with a world-leading time of 9.77 seconds in the men's 100 meters - the only event in which he will contend at the Trials - all but assuring him a spot on Team USA. It's a tantalizing chance to fill the void left behind by Jamaica's Usain Bolt, who retired in 2017 with eight Olympic golds as the world's most famous and beloved sprinter. But while the world of athletics eagerly awaits the coronation of a worthy heir to Bolt's legacy, Bromell made clear his focus is elsewhere. "For me, personally, it's all about purpose. I'm not thinking about no medals. I'm not thinking about no times, I’m not thinking about what people see or none of that," said Bromell, who has adopted a strict "no days off" policy on the road to Tokyo. It's an approach that has certainly paid off, as he clocked his second sub-10-second performance of the year last month at the Track Meet in Irvine, California. "People don't understand, you can't stop moving. You can't just stop and get complacent. So for me, every day is a grind," he said. "For me, every day is another day to be prepared for when God presents you with that opportunity." The U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials begin Friday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

Athletics: After remarkable recovery, Trayvon Bromell keeps the faith at U.S. Olympic trials

American Trayvon Bromell underlined his credentials as the Tokyo Olympics 100 meters gold-medal favourite on Saturday by running the fastest time this year of 9.77 seconds at the New Life Invitational in Miramar, Florida.

Bromell becomes the ninth man to dip under 9.80 seconds, slashing nearly one-10th of a second off his personal best of 9.84.

Marvin Bracey of the United States was second in 9.85 followed by Chris Royster in 10.08.

Reigning Olympic double sprint champion Elaine Thompson-Herah won the 100m and 200m events, clocking 10.87 and 22.54 seconds, respectively.

American Trayvon Bromell underlined his credentials as the Tokyo Olympics 100 meters gold-medal favourite on Saturday by running the fastest time this year of 9.

American Trayvon Bromell underlined his credentials as the Tokyo Olympics 100 meters gold-medal favourite on Saturday by running the fastest time this year of 9.77 seconds at the New Life Invitational in Miramar, Florida. Bromell becomes the ninth man to dip under 9.80 seconds, slashing nearly one-10th of a second off his personal best of 9.84. Marvin Bracey of the United States was second in 9.85 followed by Chris Royster in 10.08. Reigning Olympic double sprint champion Elaine Thompson-Herah won the 100m and 200m events, clocking 10.87 and 22.54 seconds, respectively.

Tokyo Olympics: Bromell runs fastest 100 meters this year

American Kenneth Bednarek edged Canadian André De Grasse in a scintillating 200 meters race at the Doha Diamond League meeting on Friday as Kenyans dominated the middle-distance competitions.

Bednarek won in 19.88, one-hundredth of a second ahead of De Grasse whose compatriot Aaron Brown was third (20.25) on a hot and humid night in the Qatari capital.

Bednarek was delighted with the win even though he said he was "a bit nervous. But I am excited that I got in the first place. I'll try to be even better again the next time."

Justin Gatlin, the 39-year old 2004 100m Olympic gold medallist, finished fifth in a season's best 20.49.

Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the double Olympic champion, won the 100m, putting behind her a disappointing fourth-place finish in Gateshead last Sunday.

Fraser-Pryce, 34, ran 10.84 seconds ahead of Nigeria's Blessing Okagbare (10.90) with America's Javianne Oliver finishing third (11.03).

Fraser-Pryce is hoping to become the first female athlete to win three Olympic 100m titles after taking gold in 2008 and 2012 in Beijing and London respectively after a silver at Rio 2016.

"I am happy that I won because it's far away from the fourth place that I did the last time," she said.

"It's going to be the final Olympic appearance (for me) so I hope it will be good. The last three&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;I went to I was able to stand on the podium and I'm hoping to be able to make it there again God willing."

KENYANS DOMINATE

Kenyans dominated the middle-distance races on a night when athletes competed without a crowd due to COVID-19 restrictions, although music from the loudspeakers provided some atmosphere.

Men's 1,500m world and three-time Diamond League champion Timothy Cheruiyot ran a patient race to win in a world-leading time of 3:30.48 to kick-start his season.

In the women's 800m, Kenya's Faith Kipyegon nudged through on the inside to secure an impressive win in a time of 1:58.26 for the 1,500m Olympic champion and world silver medallist.

"I did my personal best here in Doha, so it's really, really great to be here," Kipyegon said. "I am training so hard and hoping to do my best, so I am putting all my mind on it. The pandemic wasn't easy but we always try to be great."

Another Kenyan, 21-year-old Beatrice Chebet, won the 3,000m with a world-leading time of 8:27.49 sprinting ahead of Hellen Obiri, the twice world 5,000m champion, who faded towards the end of the race and finished a disappointing fourth.

"It's my first time winning in the Diamond League and here in Doha," Chebet said. "I didn't expect to win. I did well today and now I am preparing for the&nbsp;Olympics."

Chebet said she hoped to run the 5,000m in Tokyo.

In the men's 400m, Michael Norman ran a world-leading 44.27 to continue his winning 2021, while in the women's pole vault American Katie Nageotte won on the countback by clearing 4.84m.

She defeated compatriot and Olympic silver medallist Sandi Morris, who finished second, and Greek Olympic champion Katerina Stefanidi (4.74) who was fourth.

Another standout performance came from Venezuela's Olympic triple jump silver medallist Yulimar Rojas who won with 15.15m.

"I am happy to leave a footprint here in Doha," she said. "I enjoy this path, when it will be Tokyo's turn I'll be prepared and I'll try to win the gold medal."

American Kenneth Bednarek edged Canadian André De Grasse in a scintillating 200 meters race at the Doha Diamond League meeting on Friday as Kenyans dominated the middle-distance competitions.

American Kenneth Bednarek edged Canadian André De Grasse in a scintillating 200 meters race at the Doha Diamond League meeting on Friday as Kenyans dominated the middle-distance competitions. Bednarek won in 19.88, one-hundredth of a second ahead of De Grasse whose compatriot Aaron Brown was third (20.25) on a hot and humid night in the Qatari capital. Bednarek was delighted with the win even though he said he was "a bit nervous. But I am excited that I got in the first place. I'll try to be even better again the next time." Justin Gatlin, the 39-year old 2004 100m Olympic gold medallist, finished fifth in a season's best 20.49. Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the double Olympic champion, won the 100m, putting behind her a disappointing fourth-place finish in Gateshead last Sunday. Fraser-Pryce, 34, ran 10.84 seconds ahead of Nigeria's Blessing Okagbare (10.90) with America's Javianne Oliver finishing third (11.03). Fraser-Pryce is hoping to become the first female athlete to win three Olympic 100m titles after taking gold in 2008 and 2012 in Beijing and London respectively after a silver at Rio 2016. "I am happy that I won because it's far away from the fourth place that I did the last time," she said. "It's going to be the final Olympic appearance (for me) so I hope it will be good. The last three Olympics I went to I was able to stand on the podium and I'm hoping to be able to make it there again God willing." KENYANS DOMINATE Kenyans dominated the middle-distance races on a night when athletes competed without a crowd due to COVID-19 restrictions, although music from the loudspeakers provided some atmosphere. Men's 1,500m world and three-time Diamond League champion Timothy Cheruiyot ran a patient race to win in a world-leading time of 3:30.48 to kick-start his season. In the women's 800m, Kenya's Faith Kipyegon nudged through on the inside to secure an impressive win in a time of 1:58.26 for the 1,500m Olympic champion and world silver medallist. "I did my personal best here in Doha, so it's really, really great to be here," Kipyegon said. "I am training so hard and hoping to do my best, so I am putting all my mind on it. The pandemic wasn't easy but we always try to be great." Another Kenyan, 21-year-old Beatrice Chebet, won the 3,000m with a world-leading time of 8:27.49 sprinting ahead of Hellen Obiri, the twice world 5,000m champion, who faded towards the end of the race and finished a disappointing fourth. "It's my first time winning in the Diamond League and here in Doha," Chebet said. "I didn't expect to win. I did well today and now I am preparing for the Olympics." Chebet said she hoped to run the 5,000m in Tokyo. In the men's 400m, Michael Norman ran a world-leading 44.27 to continue his winning 2021, while in the women's pole vault American Katie Nageotte won on the countback by clearing 4.84m. She defeated compatriot and Olympic silver medallist Sandi Morris, who finished second, and Greek Olympic champion Katerina Stefanidi (4.74) who was fourth. Another standout performance came from Venezuela's Olympic triple jump silver medallist Yulimar Rojas who won with 15.15m. "I am happy to leave a footprint here in Doha," she said. "I enjoy this path, when it will be Tokyo's turn I'll be prepared and I'll try to win the gold medal."

Olympics: Kenneth Bednarek wins 200m, Kenyans shine at Doha Diamond League

World leader Trayvon Bromell put up another blistering sub-10-second performance to win the Track Meet 100 metres in Irvine, California, on Saturday, an auspicious sign as he prepares for next month's US&nbsp;Olympic trials.

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The 25-year-old Bromell outclassed the competition with a time of 9.92 to win by three-tenths of a second, just short of his season-best of 9.88.

"This week has been a real hard week for me for training," Bromell said in a televised interview. "I can’t let off, I can’t stop thinking about what (God) wants me to do."

The race marked his latest chapter in a remarkable comeback since he was carried off the track at the 2016 Rio Games with an Achilles injury and missed two years of racing rebuilding his body.

Fellow Olympians fine-tuned their form, with opportunities to compete dwindling ahead of the July 23 start of the COVID-delayed Tokyo Games.

Jamaican Omar McLeod, who earned a gold medal at the 2016 Rio&nbsp;Olympics, won the 110 metres hurdles in 13.11, defeating a high-class field that included 2012 London Games gold medalist Aries Merritt.

"Feeling good to be back out there –- thank God for health," said McLeod, 27, who won the event at the 2017 world championships as well. "I have mad respect for everyone out there."

Olympic gold medalist Matt Centrowitz won 1,500 metres by more than a second with a time of 3:35.26.

World leader Trayvon Bromell put up another blistering sub-10-second performance to win the Track Meet 100 metres in Irvine, California, on Saturday, an auspicious sign as he prepares for next month's US Olympic trials.

World leader Trayvon Bromell put up another blistering sub-10-second performance to win the Track Meet 100 metres in Irvine, California, on Saturday, an auspicious sign as he prepares for next month's US Olympic trials. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Olympic Stadium holds track and field test event without fans The 25-year-old Bromell outclassed the competition with a time of 9.92 to win by three-tenths of a second, just short of his season-best of 9.88. "This week has been a real hard week for me for training," Bromell said in a televised interview. "I can’t let off, I can’t stop thinking about what (God) wants me to do." The race marked his latest chapter in a remarkable comeback since he was carried off the track at the 2016 Rio Games with an Achilles injury and missed two years of racing rebuilding his body. Fellow Olympians fine-tuned their form, with opportunities to compete dwindling ahead of the July 23 start of the COVID-delayed Tokyo Games. Jamaican Omar McLeod, who earned a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, won the 110 metres hurdles in 13.11, defeating a high-class field that included 2012 London Games gold medalist Aries Merritt. "Feeling good to be back out there –- thank God for health," said McLeod, 27, who won the event at the 2017 world championships as well. "I have mad respect for everyone out there." Olympic gold medalist Matt Centrowitz won 1,500 metres by more than a second with a time of 3:35.26.

Trayvon Bromell continues comeback to win Track Meet 100 metres

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said on Friday he is confident the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;will go ahead as planned this year with COVID-19 vaccines giving athletes greater access to training and competitions in the build-up.

The&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;were postponed in March last year following the start of the pandemic but Coe said he believes athletes are in a different frame of mind heading into the July 23-Aug. 8 Games.

"Firstly, there's the vaccine and we were a long way away from even thinking about that at this stage last year," the Briton told Reuters.

"I know at this stage (last year) athletes were beginning to find it really difficult to maintain their training regimes and competitions were beginning to slide off the radar screen. Now they're having greater access to training and competitions."

Critics of Japan's plan to hold the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;despite the fourth wave of coronavirus infections submitted a petition on Friday signed by 350,000 people over nine days calling for the Games to be canceled.

"I can understand bystanders looking at this and being fearful - but that just reinforces for us the need to make sure people do understand sport actually is good at this," Coe said.

"I want to reassure the Japanese people that we take this seriously, with a rigorous focus on the COVID protocols. We've staged events with crowds in many places in the world... done it successfully and haven't produced a great spike in numbers.

"We recognize sport does play a really important part in our communities. There are billions of people across the globe that want the Games to take place, the athletes and broadcasters want the Games to take place."

Coe said the Games would have a different feel with fans not allowed in from abroad, while a decision on Japanese-based spectators has yet to be made.

"Everybody wants stadiums full of noisy, passionate people - but if the Games have to take place without crowds, or certainly with fewer people in stadiums, the athletes, the world of sport, accepts that now," Sebastian&nbsp;Coe added.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said on Friday he is confident the Tokyo Olympics will go ahead as planned this year with COVID-19 vaccines giving athletes greater access to training and competitions in the build-up.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said on Friday he is confident the Tokyo Olympics will go ahead as planned this year with COVID-19 vaccines giving athletes greater access to training and competitions in the build-up. The Olympics were postponed in March last year following the start of the pandemic but Coe said he believes athletes are in a different frame of mind heading into the July 23-Aug. 8 Games. "Firstly, there's the vaccine and we were a long way away from even thinking about that at this stage last year," the Briton told Reuters. "I know at this stage (last year) athletes were beginning to find it really difficult to maintain their training regimes and competitions were beginning to slide off the radar screen. Now they're having greater access to training and competitions." Critics of Japan's plan to hold the Olympics despite the fourth wave of coronavirus infections submitted a petition on Friday signed by 350,000 people over nine days calling for the Games to be canceled. "I can understand bystanders looking at this and being fearful - but that just reinforces for us the need to make sure people do understand sport actually is good at this," Coe said. "I want to reassure the Japanese people that we take this seriously, with a rigorous focus on the COVID protocols. We've staged events with crowds in many places in the world... done it successfully and haven't produced a great spike in numbers. "We recognize sport does play a really important part in our communities. There are billions of people across the globe that want the Games to take place, the athletes and broadcasters want the Games to take place." Coe said the Games would have a different feel with fans not allowed in from abroad, while a decision on Japanese-based spectators has yet to be made. "Everybody wants stadiums full of noisy, passionate people - but if the Games have to take place without crowds, or certainly with fewer people in stadiums, the athletes, the world of sport, accepts that now," Sebastian Coe added.

Sebastian Coe says COVID-19 vaccine a big factor in making Tokyo Games happen

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe insisted on Sunday, May 9&nbsp;that this summer's Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;could be held in a safe environment.

Opinion surveys have shown that most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to worries about the pandemic.

Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo on Sunday (May 10), Coe sought to reassure people that the measures taken by the organizing bodies mean that the Games can go ahead safely.

"We are very empathetic to the need to be fully recognizing that communities around the world are inevitably nervous about many things related to COVID," he said.

"Look, we are all family people, we have children, we have grandchildren, we have elderly and sometimes vulnerable relatives, so I understand this, I completely understand this.

"What I would say though, as president of World Athletics as respectfully as I can, is that we take those concerns very, very seriously. The COVID protocols, particularly that World Athletics have developed over the last year and a half by our health and science teams who are extremely good at this, have consistently helped deliver events in a safe and secure environment."

Coe pointed to the last weekend's world relay championships in Poland as an example of how the measures are working, with no positive COVID tests reported from over 700 athletes taking part.

Coe was speaking on a day when hundreds of athletes, including U.S. sprinter Justin Gatlin, participated in a test event at the Olympic Stadium, as organizers fine-tuned operations and practiced COVID-19 countermeasures with under three months to go before the Tokyo Games begin.

No spectators were present in the stadium, where the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;opening and closing ceremonies will be held, as Tokyo remains under a state of emergency to tame a rise in coronavirus infections.

Despite the state of emergency, organizers have operated more than eleven test events since last month with no reported coronavirus cases resulting.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe insisted on Sunday, May 9 that this summer's Tokyo Olympics could be held in a safe environment. Opinion surveys have shown that most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to worries about the pandemic.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe insisted on Sunday, May 9 that this summer's Tokyo Olympics could be held in a safe environment. Opinion surveys have shown that most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to worries about the pandemic. Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo on Sunday (May 10), Coe sought to reassure people that the measures taken by the organizing bodies mean that the Games can go ahead safely. "We are very empathetic to the need to be fully recognizing that communities around the world are inevitably nervous about many things related to COVID," he said. "Look, we are all family people, we have children, we have grandchildren, we have elderly and sometimes vulnerable relatives, so I understand this, I completely understand this. "What I would say though, as president of World Athletics as respectfully as I can, is that we take those concerns very, very seriously. The COVID protocols, particularly that World Athletics have developed over the last year and a half by our health and science teams who are extremely good at this, have consistently helped deliver events in a safe and secure environment." Coe pointed to the last weekend's world relay championships in Poland as an example of how the measures are working, with no positive COVID tests reported from over 700 athletes taking part. Coe was speaking on a day when hundreds of athletes, including U.S. sprinter Justin Gatlin, participated in a test event at the Olympic Stadium, as organizers fine-tuned operations and practiced COVID-19 countermeasures with under three months to go before the Tokyo Games begin. No spectators were present in the stadium, where the Olympics opening and closing ceremonies will be held, as Tokyo remains under a state of emergency to tame a rise in coronavirus infections. Despite the state of emergency, organizers have operated more than eleven test events since last month with no reported coronavirus cases resulting.

Sebastian Coe says, athletics' governing body takes Olympic health concerns 'very, very seriously'

Australia's success in Olympic track and field quite literally slowed to a walk at the Rio Games but hopes are high for a rebound at&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;with a raft of elite women leading the charge.

Australia's athletics championships wrapped up in Sydney this week with a slew of Olympic qualifying marks capping an encouraging domestic season for home-based&nbsp;athletes.

Among the standout performers was high jumper Nicola McDermott, who cleared 2.00 meters to eclipse her teammate Eleanor Patterson's national record (1.99m) in an event won at Rio with a leap of 1.97m.

Middle distance runner Linden Hall became the first&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;woman to break the four-minute mark in the 1,500m in Melbourne earlier this month, grabbing the year-best time of 3 minutes and 59.67 seconds.

Other&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;medal threats include javelin world champion Kelsey-Lee Barber and pole vaulter Nina Kennedy, who claimed the national record of 4.82m in Sydney last month.

The performances have given&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;athletics confidence there will be an improvement on the modest return at Rio, where the team managed only a pair of men's walking medals, the 50km silver for Jared Tallent, and 20km bronze for Dane Bird-Smith.

"We don't put a specific figure on our goals but we do have a number of&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;who are medal-capable," Athletics Australia's high-performance chief Andrew Faichney told Reuters.

"On the women’s side, we’ve just got a really strong group of&nbsp;athletes. We’ve pretty much got every single track event qualified for the women and many of the field events.

"We’ll still have a reasonably strong men’s program but the women have been remarkable."

NEW HEROES

Australia will be looking for new heroes in the wake of the retirements of former Olympic hurdles champion Sally Pearson and Tallent, who helped slow the country's waning athletics returns after the 2008 Beijing Games.

Pearson, who claimed 100m hurdles gold at London and silver at Beijing, hung up her spikes in 2019 after losing her battle to injury, while Tallent last month bowed out as Australia's most successful Olympic male track athlete with four medals across three Games.

Compared to Australia's 59-strong athletics team at Rio, Faichney expects up to 70 qualified for&nbsp;Tokyo, no mean feat given the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Australia's closed borders and travel restrictions meant many&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;eschewed the logistical challenge of competing abroad.

But the country's relative success in containing COVID-19 has been a blessing for domestic-based&nbsp;athletes, who have been able to train and travel freely even as overseas rivals continue to battle lockdowns.

Athletics Australia will put on further meetings in Queensland state in June to give more&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;the chance to post Olympic qualifying marks, including those who will miss running at the world relay championships in Poland next week.

"If you look at the domestic season, the&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;and coaches have used the last 12 months well to prepare themselves and I think that was the basis of such strong national championships," said Faichney.

"I think for us to have comparative freedom here has actually done us really well in performance."

&nbsp;

Australia's success in Olympic track and field quite literally slowed to a walk at the Rio Games but hopes are high for a rebound at Tokyo with a raft of elite women leading the charge.

Australia's success in Olympic track and field quite literally slowed to a walk at the Rio Games but hopes are high for a rebound at Tokyo with a raft of elite women leading the charge. Australia's athletics championships wrapped up in Sydney this week with a slew of Olympic qualifying marks capping an encouraging domestic season for home-based athletes. Among the standout performers was high jumper Nicola McDermott, who cleared 2.00 meters to eclipse her teammate Eleanor Patterson's national record (1.99m) in an event won at Rio with a leap of 1.97m. Middle distance runner Linden Hall became the first Australian woman to break the four-minute mark in the 1,500m in Melbourne earlier this month, grabbing the year-best time of 3 minutes and 59.67 seconds. Other Australian medal threats include javelin world champion Kelsey-Lee Barber and pole vaulter Nina Kennedy, who claimed the national record of 4.82m in Sydney last month. The performances have given Australian athletics confidence there will be an improvement on the modest return at Rio, where the team managed only a pair of men's walking medals, the 50km silver for Jared Tallent, and 20km bronze for Dane Bird-Smith. "We don't put a specific figure on our goals but we do have a number of athletes who are medal-capable," Athletics Australia's high-performance chief Andrew Faichney told Reuters. "On the women’s side, we’ve just got a really strong group of athletes. We’ve pretty much got every single track event qualified for the women and many of the field events. "We’ll still have a reasonably strong men’s program but the women have been remarkable." NEW HEROES Australia will be looking for new heroes in the wake of the retirements of former Olympic hurdles champion Sally Pearson and Tallent, who helped slow the country's waning athletics returns after the 2008 Beijing Games. Pearson, who claimed 100m hurdles gold at London and silver at Beijing, hung up her spikes in 2019 after losing her battle to injury, while Tallent last month bowed out as Australia's most successful Olympic male track athlete with four medals across three Games. Compared to Australia's 59-strong athletics team at Rio, Faichney expects up to 70 qualified for Tokyo, no mean feat given the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Australia's closed borders and travel restrictions meant many athletes eschewed the logistical challenge of competing abroad. But the country's relative success in containing COVID-19 has been a blessing for domestic-based athletes, who have been able to train and travel freely even as overseas rivals continue to battle lockdowns. Athletics Australia will put on further meetings in Queensland state in June to give more athletes the chance to post Olympic qualifying marks, including those who will miss running at the world relay championships in Poland next week. "If you look at the domestic season, the athletes and coaches have used the last 12 months well to prepare themselves and I think that was the basis of such strong national championships," said Faichney. "I think for us to have comparative freedom here has actually done us really well in performance."

Australian athletes coming on in leaps and bounds before Tokyo Olympics

Unnathi Aiyappa set two national records in the Girls&nbsp;U&nbsp;-16 (80m Hurdles/300m) category as Inspire Institute of Sport’s 10-member team bagged a rich haul of medals (7 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze) at the 36th National Junior Athletics Championships in Guwahati. 
 
Pavana Nagraj (U-16, High Jump) and Yashwanth Kumar (U-20, 110m Hurdles) rewrote the national record books en route to gold medal winning performances.&nbsp;They both were also&nbsp;named the Best Athletes in their respective age groups at the event. 
 
The experienced trio of Jeswin Aldrin (U-20, Long Jump), Praveen Chithravel (U-20, Triple Jump) and Rohit Yadav (U-20, Javelin Throw) also picked up gold medals in their respective events.

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IIS Head Coach for Track &amp; Field Antony Yaich welcomed the opportunity for the athletes to compete after the Covid-19 pandemic had enforced a lengthy break from competition. “This was a very important meet for the group since this was the first time in over a year that they could compete against the best in India,” Yaich said. 
 
“I’m happy because it was a good opening for our athletes and some of the performances were really top level. As they compete more, I’m expecting them all to do better in subsequent meets and improve on their current bests.”

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Completing IIS’s glowing medal tally in Assam was Darshan Shaktivel, who took home a silver in the U-18 Long Jump and Sharvari Parulekar won bronze in the U-20 Triple Jump event.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(32, 32, 32)">RESULTS OF IIS ATHLETES</h2>

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="604">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">NAME</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">CATEGORY</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">EVENT</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">MEDAL</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">TIME/DISTANCE</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Pavana Nagraj</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-16</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">High Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">1.73m&nbsp;(NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap" rowspan="2">Unnathi Aiyappa</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap" rowspan="2">U-16</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">80m Hurdles</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">11.50s (NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">300m</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">40.11s&nbsp;(NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Yashwanth Kumar</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">110m Hurdles</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">13.92s&nbsp;(NR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Jeswin Aldrin</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Long Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">7.47m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Praveen Chithravel</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Triple Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">15.82m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Rohit Yadav</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Javelin Throw</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Gold</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">77.86m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Darshan Shaktivel</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-18</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Long Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Silver</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">7.01m</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Sharvari Parulekar</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">U-20</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Triple Jump</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">Bronze</td>
			<td nowrap="nowrap">12.17m</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Unnathi Aiyappa set two national records in the Girls U -16 (80m Hurdles/300m) category as Inspire Institute of Sport’s 10-member team bagged a rich haul of medals (7 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze) at the 36th National Junior Athletics Championships in Guwahati.

Unnathi Aiyappa set two national records in the Girls U -16 (80m Hurdles/300m) category as Inspire Institute of Sport’s 10-member team bagged a rich haul of medals (7 golds, 1 silver, 1 bronze) at the 36th National Junior Athletics Championships in Guwahati. Pavana Nagraj (U-16, High Jump) and Yashwanth Kumar (U-20, 110m Hurdles) rewrote the national record books en route to gold medal winning performances. They both were also named the Best Athletes in their respective age groups at the event. The experienced trio of Jeswin Aldrin (U-20, Long Jump), Praveen Chithravel (U-20, Triple Jump) and Rohit Yadav (U-20, Javelin Throw) also picked up gold medals in their respective events. ALSO READ: Tsitsipas survives five-set marathon to reach last 32 in Melbourne IIS Head Coach for Track & Field Antony Yaich welcomed the opportunity for the athletes to compete after the Covid-19 pandemic had enforced a lengthy break from competition. “This was a very important meet for the group since this was the first time in over a year that they could compete against the best in India,” Yaich said. “I’m happy because it was a good opening for our athletes and some of the performances were really top level. As they compete more, I’m expecting them all to do better in subsequent meets and improve on their current bests.” ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori to resign? Japanese media reports Completing IIS’s glowing medal tally in Assam was Darshan Shaktivel, who took home a silver in the U-18 Long Jump and Sharvari Parulekar won bronze in the U-20 Triple Jump event. RESULTS OF IIS ATHLETES NAME CATEGORY EVENT MEDAL TIME/DISTANCE Pavana Nagraj U-16 High Jump Gold 1.73m (NR) Unnathi Aiyappa U-16 80m Hurdles Gold 11.50s (NR) 300m Gold 40.11s (NR) Yashwanth Kumar U-20 110m Hurdles Gold 13.92s (NR) Jeswin Aldrin U-20 Long Jump Gold 7.47m Praveen Chithravel U-20 Triple Jump Gold 15.82m Rohit Yadav U-20 Javelin Throw Gold 77.86m Darshan Shaktivel U-18 Long Jump Silver 7.01m Sharvari Parulekar U-20 Triple Jump Bronze 12.17m

Inspire Institute of Sport athletes set 4 national records at Junior Nationals

Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce powered her way to 100 metres gold on Sunday to become the first person to win four gold medals over the distance at the athletics world championships.

Fraser-Pryce, who returned to the track in earnest only last year after giving birth to a son, stormed across the line in a season-best time of 10.71 seconds followed by Britain's Dina Asher-Smith in 10.83.

Ivory Coast's Marie-Josee Ta Lou, world silver medallist at 100m and 200m in London two years ago, completed the podium, grabbing bronze with 10.90.

The victory cemented Fraser-Pryce's status as one of the all-time great sprinters, with her four world titles going alongside Olympic gold won in 2008 and 2012 and perhaps more to come at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Games.

The 32-year-old Jamaican now stands alone in terms of the world championships where her four titles are one better than her compatriot Usain Bolt and Americans Carl Lewis and Maurice Greene.

"Standing here having done it again, holding my baby, is a dream come true," said Fraser-Pryce, who had switched from the yellow dyed hair she sported in the heats to a multi-coloured style for the final.

"I had no sleep last night. Last time I was at a major championship was 2016 and I just could not sleep with nerves, But with mental toughness, you will get what you want."

Empty seats

The only disappointment about the race was that once again there was a shockingly sparse crowd at the 40,000-capacity Khalifa Stadium to watch the world's top sprinters perform.

With the upper sections of the stadium covered in signage and only the lower bowl open for spectators, there were still more empty seats than occupied ones even on a night when five gold medals were on offer.

By the time the women sprinters hit the track for their race, the last of the night,&nbsp;the stadium had almost emptied.

Letting out a mighty scream as she crossed the line Fraser-Pryce wrapped herself in the Jamaican flag then found her son Zyon, who was soon asleep on her shoulder, as she took a victory lap around the vacant stadium.

"I can't believe it, I worked so hard to be back," said Fraser-Pryce.

"Zyon and my husband have been my strength when everybody else doubted me, they never did," she added.

After a lavish pre-race production for the benefit of the small crowd, the sprinters settled in their blocks and when the gun went off there was little doubt that Fraser-Pryce would be adding to her golden haul as she left Asher-Smith in her wake.

The silver was the first medal for a British woman in the 100m since Dorothy Hyman at the 1960 Olympics.

"A PB (personal best) and a national record, that is more than I could have ever asked for in a world championship final," said Asher-Smith.

"I'd have loved to win today but Shelly-Ann ran a superb race, that's why she is the champion she is."

The results confirmed that Jamaican women have taken over the mantle of global sprint superpower from their men whose dominance has been in decline since the retirement of 100 and 200m record holder Bolt, who is not competing at the worlds for the first time since 2003.

Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce powered her way to 100 metres gold on Sunday to become the first person to win four gold medals over the distance at the athletics world championships.

Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce powered her way to 100 metres gold on Sunday to become the first person to win four gold medals over the distance at the athletics world championships. Fraser-Pryce, who returned to the track in earnest only last year after giving birth to a son, stormed across the line in a season-best time of 10.71 seconds followed by Britain's Dina Asher-Smith in 10.83. Ivory Coast's Marie-Josee Ta Lou, world silver medallist at 100m and 200m in London two years ago, completed the podium, grabbing bronze with 10.90. The victory cemented Fraser-Pryce's status as one of the all-time great sprinters, with her four world titles going alongside Olympic gold won in 2008 and 2012 and perhaps more to come at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Games. The 32-year-old Jamaican now stands alone in terms of the world championships where her four titles are one better than her compatriot Usain Bolt and Americans Carl Lewis and Maurice Greene. "Standing here having done it again, holding my baby, is a dream come true," said Fraser-Pryce, who had switched from the yellow dyed hair she sported in the heats to a multi-coloured style for the final. "I had no sleep last night. Last time I was at a major championship was 2016 and I just could not sleep with nerves, But with mental toughness, you will get what you want." Empty seats The only disappointment about the race was that once again there was a shockingly sparse crowd at the 40,000-capacity Khalifa Stadium to watch the world's top sprinters perform. With the upper sections of the stadium covered in signage and only the lower bowl open for spectators, there were still more empty seats than occupied ones even on a night when five gold medals were on offer. By the time the women sprinters hit the track for their race, the last of the night, the stadium had almost emptied. Letting out a mighty scream as she crossed the line Fraser-Pryce wrapped herself in the Jamaican flag then found her son Zyon, who was soon asleep on her shoulder, as she took a victory lap around the vacant stadium. "I can't believe it, I worked so hard to be back," said Fraser-Pryce. "Zyon and my husband have been my strength when everybody else doubted me, they never did," she added. After a lavish pre-race production for the benefit of the small crowd, the sprinters settled in their blocks and when the gun went off there was little doubt that Fraser-Pryce would be adding to her golden haul as she left Asher-Smith in her wake. The silver was the first medal for a British woman in the 100m since Dorothy Hyman at the 1960 Olympics. "A PB (personal best) and a national record, that is more than I could have ever asked for in a world championship final," said Asher-Smith. "I'd have loved to win today but Shelly-Ann ran a superb race, that's why she is the champion she is." The results confirmed that Jamaican women have taken over the mantle of global sprint superpower from their men whose dominance has been in decline since the retirement of 100 and 200m record holder Bolt, who is not competing at the worlds for the first time since 2003.

Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce claims victory at athletics world championships

India's star sprinter Hima Das clinched an illustrious gold medal after finish top in women's 200m at the Kutno Athletics Meet in Poland on Sunday.&nbsp;

Lately, Das was struggling with a back problem but despite that, she clocked 23.97 seconds to go top of the podium. VK Vismaya clocked 24.06 to win the silver medal.&nbsp;

It is her second gold medal inside a week as she has already finished on top in the Poznan Athletics Grand Prix.&nbsp;

Earlier, for her contribution in sports, Das was conferred with the Arjuna Awards from Indian President Ram Nath Kovind this year.&nbsp;

After her historic achievements, she was named as the brand ambassador of Assam.&nbsp;

She had made the nation proud in the 18th Asian Games when she claimed the silver medal in the women's 400 metres race after clocking a time of 50.79 seconds.&nbsp;

Twitter users wished on her terrific feat:

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I would like to congratulate sprinter <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimaDas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimaDas</a> for winning second international gold in women's 200m athletics at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KutnoAthleticsMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KutnoAthleticsMeet</a> in Poland.
— Sandeep Gadhe (@sandeep_gadhe) <a href="https://twitter.com/sandeep_gadhe/status/1148171716704833536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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🇮🇳 🥇 
CONGRATULATIONS! 
PROUD OF YOU GOLDEN GIRL! 
 
Sprinter <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimaDas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimaDas</a> wins her second international GOLD in women's 200m with a top finish at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KutnoAthleticsMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KutnoAthleticsMeet</a> in Poland. <a href="https://t.co/ahH7NAqbT0">pic.twitter.com/ahH7NAqbT0</a>
— Ravindra Fauzdar BJP (@RSFBLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/RSFBLB/status/1148172134058885121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MANY MANY CONGRATULATIONS! 
PROUD OF YOU GOLDEN GIRL!! 
Sprinter <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimaDas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimaDas</a> wins her second international GOLD🥇 in women's 200m with a top finish at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KutnoAthleticsMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KutnoAthleticsMeet</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Poland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Poland</a> .. <a href="https://t.co/uAFycPWLTd">pic.twitter.com/uAFycPWLTd</a>
— vijay pratap singh (@vijaylkopratap) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijaylkopratap/status/1148172372899291136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This was Hima's second competitive 200m race of the year.

India's star sprinter Hima Das clinched an illustrious gold medal after finish top in women's 200m at the Kutno Athletics Meet in Poland on Sunday. Lately, Das was struggling with a back problem but despite that, she clocked 23.

India's star sprinter Hima Das clinched an illustrious gold medal after finish top in women's 200m at the Kutno Athletics Meet in Poland on Sunday. Lately, Das was struggling with a back problem but despite that, she clocked 23.97 seconds to go top of the podium. VK Vismaya clocked 24.06 to win the silver medal. It is her second gold medal inside a week as she has already finished on top in the Poznan Athletics Grand Prix. Earlier, for her contribution in sports, Das was conferred with the Arjuna Awards from Indian President Ram Nath Kovind this year. After her historic achievements, she was named as the brand ambassador of Assam. She had made the nation proud in the 18th Asian Games when she claimed the silver medal in the women's 400 metres race after clocking a time of 50.79 seconds. Twitter users wished on her terrific feat: I would like to congratulate sprinter #HimaDas for winning second international gold in women's 200m athletics at #KutnoAthleticsMeet in Poland. — Sandeep Gadhe (@sandeep_gadhe) July 8, 2019 × 🇮🇳 🥇 CONGRATULATIONS! PROUD OF YOU GOLDEN GIRL! Sprinter #HimaDas wins her second international GOLD in women's 200m with a top finish at #KutnoAthleticsMeet in Poland. pic.twitter.com/ahH7NAqbT0 — Ravindra Fauzdar BJP (@RSFBLB) July 8, 2019 × MANY MANY CONGRATULATIONS! PROUD OF YOU GOLDEN GIRL!! Sprinter #HimaDas wins her second international GOLD🥇 in women's 200m with a top finish at #KutnoAthleticsMeet in #Poland .. pic.twitter.com/uAFycPWLTd — vijay pratap singh (@vijaylkopratap) July 8, 2019 × This was Hima's second competitive 200m race of the year.

India's star sprinter Hima Das wins second international gold inside a week

Father ate cattle's food so she can train well: A touching story of gold medalist Gomathi Marimuthu

India's Tejaswin Shankar won the men's high jump title at the Big12 collegiate athletic meet with a national record-equalling leap in Texas, USA.&nbsp;

Appearing for the Kansas State University, Tejaswin cleared a season-best 2.28m in his final attempt to equal his national record set in the 22nd Federation Cup in Patiala last year.&nbsp;

However, Tejaswin's personal best is 2.29m, cleared in April last year at the Texas tech invite.&nbsp;

Tejaswin, thus, became the sixth Big12 high jump champion from Kansas State University and eight in the history of the collegiate meet.&nbsp;

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🗣 Tejaswin Shankar wins the <a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Big12Conference</a> men’s high jump title! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KStateTF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KStateTF</a> 
 
The sophomore jumped 2.28m/7-05.75 to become the sixth Big 12 high jump champ from K-State in the past 10 years and eighth in Big 12 history <a href="https://t.co/eMPkz8QXgY">pic.twitter.com/eMPkz8QXgY</a>
— K-State Track (@KStateTFXC) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateTFXC/status/1099452597742813185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Another gr8 meet with a clutch final attempt jump to win the @Big12Conference title also equalling my Indian NR on its 1st anniversary! Chasing consistency which seems to be playing tag with me. But I'll get it soon as I am a 400m runner too!" the Indian tweeted.&nbsp;

Tejaswin, 20, is a gold medallist at the 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games besides winning a silver at the 2016 South Asian Games.&nbsp;

He rose to prominence when he broke Hari Shankar Roy's 12-year-old national record of 2.25 metres with a jump of 2.26 metres at the Junior National Championships in Coimbatore in 2016.&nbsp;

India's Tejaswin Shankar won the men's high jump title at the Big12 collegiate athletic meet with a national record-equalling leap in Texas, USA. Appearing for the Kansas State University, Tejaswin cleared a season-best 2.

India's Tejaswin Shankar won the men's high jump title at the Big12 collegiate athletic meet with a national record-equalling leap in Texas, USA. Appearing for the Kansas State University, Tejaswin cleared a season-best 2.28m in his final attempt to equal his national record set in the 22nd Federation Cup in Patiala last year. However, Tejaswin's personal best is 2.29m, cleared in April last year at the Texas tech invite. Tejaswin, thus, became the sixth Big12 high jump champion from Kansas State University and eight in the history of the collegiate meet. 🗣 Tejaswin Shankar wins the @Big12Conference men’s high jump title! #KStateTF The sophomore jumped 2.28m/7-05.75 to become the sixth Big 12 high jump champ from K-State in the past 10 years and eighth in Big 12 history pic.twitter.com/eMPkz8QXgY — K-State Track (@KStateTFXC) February 23, 2019 × "Another gr8 meet with a clutch final attempt jump to win the @Big12Conference title also equalling my Indian NR on its 1st anniversary! Chasing consistency which seems to be playing tag with me. But I'll get it soon as I am a 400m runner too!" the Indian tweeted. Tejaswin, 20, is a gold medallist at the 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games besides winning a silver at the 2016 South Asian Games. He rose to prominence when he broke Hari Shankar Roy's 12-year-old national record of 2.25 metres with a jump of 2.26 metres at the Junior National Championships in Coimbatore in 2016.

India's high jumper Tejaswin Shankar wins Big12 title in USA, equals national record

Double Olympic 800 metres champion <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Caster+Semenya">Caster Semenya</a> said Tuesday that proposed rules that would oblige her to lower her testosterone levels "do not empower anyone".

The South African appeared Monday at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne at the start of a landmark hearing to challenge the rules proposed by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

The controversial measures would force so-called "hyperandrogenic" athletes or those with "differences of sexual development" (DSD) to seek treatment to lower their testosterone levels below a prescribed amount if they wish to continue competing as women.

A statement issued by Semenya's legal team said she believes "she and other women affected by the regulations should be permitted to compete in the female category without discrimination" and that they should be "celebrated for their natural talents as are all other athletes with genetic variations".

The statement continued, "The IAAF's regulations do not empower anyone. Rather, they represent yet another flawed and hurtful attempt to police the sex of female athletes."

The IAAF says it is introducing the rules to create a "level playing field" for other female runners.

The track and field body says, "If a DSD athlete has testes and male levels of testosterone, they get the same increases in bone and muscle size and strength and increases in haemoglobin that a male gets when they go through puberty, which is what gives men such a performance advantage over women."

On Monday, Semenya accused the IAAF of breaching confidentiality rules after it published the names of five expert witnesses who will appear to testify on its behalf.

Semenya published her own list of expert witnesses who will speak in support of her this week, including Professor Veronica Gomez-Lobo, professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Georgetown University in the United States.

The South African government says the rules specifically target Semenya and has called them a "gross violation" of her human rights.

Semenya is not the only athlete potentially affected by the new rules -- the two athletes who finished behind her in the Rio Olympics 800m, Francine Niyonsaba of Burundi and Kenya's Margaret Wambui, have also faced questions about their testosterone levels.

A judgement in the case is expected by the end of March.

Double Olympic 800 metres champion Caster Semenya said Tuesday that proposed rules that would oblige her to lower her testosterone levels "do not empower anyone".

Double Olympic 800 metres champion Caster Semenya said Tuesday that proposed rules that would oblige her to lower her testosterone levels "do not empower anyone". The South African appeared Monday at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne at the start of a landmark hearing to challenge the rules proposed by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). The controversial measures would force so-called "hyperandrogenic" athletes or those with "differences of sexual development" (DSD) to seek treatment to lower their testosterone levels below a prescribed amount if they wish to continue competing as women. A statement issued by Semenya's legal team said she believes "she and other women affected by the regulations should be permitted to compete in the female category without discrimination" and that they should be "celebrated for their natural talents as are all other athletes with genetic variations". The statement continued, "The IAAF's regulations do not empower anyone. Rather, they represent yet another flawed and hurtful attempt to police the sex of female athletes." The IAAF says it is introducing the rules to create a "level playing field" for other female runners. The track and field body says, "If a DSD athlete has testes and male levels of testosterone, they get the same increases in bone and muscle size and strength and increases in haemoglobin that a male gets when they go through puberty, which is what gives men such a performance advantage over women." On Monday, Semenya accused the IAAF of breaching confidentiality rules after it published the names of five expert witnesses who will appear to testify on its behalf. Semenya published her own list of expert witnesses who will speak in support of her this week, including Professor Veronica Gomez-Lobo, professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Georgetown University in the United States. The South African government says the rules specifically target Semenya and has called them a "gross violation" of her human rights. Semenya is not the only athlete potentially affected by the new rules -- the two athletes who finished behind her in the Rio Olympics 800m, Francine Niyonsaba of Burundi and Kenya's Margaret Wambui, have also faced questions about their testosterone levels. A judgement in the case is expected by the end of March.

Caster Semenya says gender rules 'do not empower anyone'

Record-breaking British athlete Roger Bannister, the first man to run a mile in under four minutes, has died aged 88, his family announced on Sunday.

&quot;Sir Roger Bannister, died peacefully in Oxford on 3rd March 2018, aged 88, surrounded by his family who was as loved by him, as he was loved by them,&quot; his family said.

&quot;He banked his treasure in the hearts of his friends,&quot; they added, in a statement published by the Press Association news agency.

Bannister gained global sporting glory on May 6, 1954, when he ran a mile (1.6 kilometres) in three minutes 59.4 seconds at the Iffley Road track in Oxford.

Seb Coe, president of the International Association of Athletics Federations, said Bannister`s death marked &quot;a day of intense sadness both for our nation and for all of us in athletics&quot;.

&quot;There is not a single athlete of my generation who was not inspired by Roger and his achievements both on and off the track,&quot; tweeted Coe, who won two Olympic gold medals in the 1980s.

Half a century later after Bannister`s record, the Royal Mint celebrated the occasion by issuing a 50 pence coin showing an athlete`s running legs against a stopwatch.

British Prime Minister Theresa May described Bannister as &quot;a great British sporting icon whose achievements were an inspiration to us all&quot;.

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Sir Roger Bannister was a great British sporting icon whose achievements were an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed.
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&quot;He will be greatly missed,&quot; she wrote on Twitter.

Despite being famed for breaking the four-minute barrier, Bannister said he felt a greater sense of achievement winning gold at the 1954 Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, beating his great rival Australian John Landy in a race later dubbed the &quot;Miracle Mile&quot;.

&quot;I think that racing in the Olympics and Commonwealths is more important than breaking records,&quot; Bannister said in 2014.

&quot;Vancouver was the pinnacle of my athletics career. It is very difficult to break records during the Olympic competition, but winning races was better than holding world records.&quot;

The current one-mile record has since 1999 been held by Morocco`s Hicham El Guerrouj with a time of 3:43.13 secs.

But Bannister`s achievement has continued to inspire athletics enthusiasts, with the shoes he wore to break the four-minute barrier selling for a record.

The black-leather pair of shoes sold for &pound;266,500 in September 2015 -- about $409,000 at the exchange rate at the time.

By then Bannister was having trouble walking, let alone running, after revealing he was suffering from Parkinson`s disease.

The condition progressively damages part of the brain over time and is one Bannister was familiar with, even before he was first diagnosed a few years ago, from his lengthy career as the neurologist.

&quot;I am being well looked after and I don`t intend to let it interfere -- as much as I can,&quot; he told the BBC in 2014.

&quot;Just consider the alternatives -- that is the way I look at it,&quot; he added. &quot;Intellectually I am not (degenerating) and what is walking anyway!&quot;

Bannister gained global sporting glory on May 6, 1954, when he ran a mile (1.6 kilometres) in three minutes 59.4 seconds at the Iffley Road track in Oxford

Record-breaking British athlete Roger Bannister, the first man to run a mile in under four minutes, has died aged 88, his family announced on Sunday. "Sir Roger Bannister, died peacefully in Oxford on 3rd March 2018, aged 88, surrounded by his family who was as loved by him, as he was loved by them," his family said. "He banked his treasure in the hearts of his friends," they added, in a statement published by the Press Association news agency. Bannister gained global sporting glory on May 6, 1954, when he ran a mile (1.6 kilometres) in three minutes 59.4 seconds at the Iffley Road track in Oxford. Seb Coe, president of the International Association of Athletics Federations, said Bannister`s death marked "a day of intense sadness both for our nation and for all of us in athletics". "There is not a single athlete of my generation who was not inspired by Roger and his achievements both on and off the track," tweeted Coe, who won two Olympic gold medals in the 1980s. Half a century later after Bannister`s record, the Royal Mint celebrated the occasion by issuing a 50 pence coin showing an athlete`s running legs against a stopwatch. British Prime Minister Theresa May described Bannister as "a great British sporting icon whose achievements were an inspiration to us all". Sir Roger Bannister was a great British sporting icon whose achievements were an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed. — Theresa May (@theresa_may) March 4, 2018 × "He will be greatly missed," she wrote on Twitter. Despite being famed for breaking the four-minute barrier, Bannister said he felt a greater sense of achievement winning gold at the 1954 Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, beating his great rival Australian John Landy in a race later dubbed the "Miracle Mile". "I think that racing in the Olympics and Commonwealths is more important than breaking records," Bannister said in 2014. "Vancouver was the pinnacle of my athletics career. It is very difficult to break records during the Olympic competition, but winning races was better than holding world records." The current one-mile record has since 1999 been held by Morocco`s Hicham El Guerrouj with a time of 3:43.13 secs. But Bannister`s achievement has continued to inspire athletics enthusiasts, with the shoes he wore to break the four-minute barrier selling for a record. The black-leather pair of shoes sold for £266,500 in September 2015 -- about $409,000 at the exchange rate at the time. By then Bannister was having trouble walking, let alone running, after revealing he was suffering from Parkinson`s disease. The condition progressively damages part of the brain over time and is one Bannister was familiar with, even before he was first diagnosed a few years ago, from his lengthy career as the neurologist. "I am being well looked after and I don`t intend to let it interfere -- as much as I can," he told the BBC in 2014. "Just consider the alternatives -- that is the way I look at it," he added. "Intellectually I am not (degenerating) and what is walking anyway!"

Roger Bannister, the first person to run a mile in under four minutes, dies at 88

Rising US star Christian Coleman set a new world indoor record for the 60m on Sunday, blasting to victory in 6.34sec at the US championships in Albuquerque.

The 21-year-old exploded out of the blocks with a 0.149 reaction time to cross ahead of Ronnie Baker, who was second in 6.40.

Coleman&#39;s time shaved 0.05sec off the existing world indoor record set by Maurice Greene in Madrid in 1998.

It comes after a roller-coaster start to the season for Coleman, the world 100m silver medallist.

The American youngster was initially believed to have broken Greene&#39;s 60m record at a meeting in Clemson, South Carolina on January 19, where he clocked 6.37sec.

However, that time was not ratified because the meeting at which took place was not using electronic starting blocks.

Coleman set prodigious times as a college athlete and has been hailed as a potential Olympic champion.&nbsp;

He ran the fastest 100 meters time of 2017 with 9.82sec but in the world final in London he was beaten by Justin Gatlin as Usain Bolt finished third.

&nbsp;

The 21-year-old exploded out of the blocks with a 0.149 reaction time to cross ahead of Ronnie Baker, who was second in 6.40

Rising US star Christian Coleman set a new world indoor record for the 60m on Sunday, blasting to victory in 6.34sec at the US championships in Albuquerque. The 21-year-old exploded out of the blocks with a 0.149 reaction time to cross ahead of Ronnie Baker, who was second in 6.40. Coleman's time shaved 0.05sec off the existing world indoor record set by Maurice Greene in Madrid in 1998. It comes after a roller-coaster start to the season for Coleman, the world 100m silver medallist. The American youngster was initially believed to have broken Greene's 60m record at a meeting in Clemson, South Carolina on January 19, where he clocked 6.37sec. However, that time was not ratified because the meeting at which took place was not using electronic starting blocks. Coleman set prodigious times as a college athlete and has been hailed as a potential Olympic champion. He ran the fastest 100 meters time of 2017 with 9.82sec but in the world final in London he was beaten by Justin Gatlin as Usain Bolt finished third.

Athletics: Coleman breaks 60m indoor world record

Britain`s Olympic and world champion Mo Farah has split with long-time coach Alberto Salazar because he wants to move back to London with his family, he said in an interview on Monday.

Farah, who moved to Portland in 2011 to work with distance guru Salazar, said the decision had nothing to do with doping allegations surrounding the coach, which have been denied.&nbsp;

&quot;I`m not leaving the Nike Oregon Project and Alberto Salazar because of the doping allegations,&quot; Farah, 34, was quoted as saying by The Sun newspaper`s website (www.thesun.co.uk).

&quot;This situation has been going on for over two years, if I was going to leave because of that I would have done.&quot;

In February, Salazar denied administering banned supplements to his athletes and issued a firm rebuttal of what he said were false allegations against him in a British newspaper.

The Sunday Times reported that Salazar had used prohibited infusions of supplements to improve the performance of his runners, citing what the newspaper said was a leaked United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) report.

But Farah said in Monday`s interview: &quot;As I`ve always said, I am (a) firm believer in clean sport and I strongly believe that anyone who breaks the rules should be punished.

&quot;If Alberto had crossed the line I would be out the door but USADA has not charged him with anything. If I had ever had any reason to doubt Alberto, I would not have stood by him all this time.&quot;

Farah, who was born in Somalia and moved to Britain at the age of eight, won 5,000m and 10,000m gold at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics as well as six world titles at those distances.

He ended his track career this year to concentrate on road running and will now work with Gary Lough, who previously coached his own wife and women`s marathon world record holder, Britain`s Paula Radcliffe.

&quot;I`m leaving (Salazar and the U.S.) simply because my family and I are moving back to London,&quot; said Farah, who won 10,000m gold and then a silver in the 5,000m at the World Athletics Championships in London in the final track race of his career.

Farah, who moved to Portland in 2011 to work with distance guru Salazar, said the decision had nothing to do with doping allegations surrounding the coach, which have been denied

Britain`s Olympic and world champion Mo Farah has split with long-time coach Alberto Salazar because he wants to move back to London with his family, he said in an interview on Monday. Farah, who moved to Portland in 2011 to work with distance guru Salazar, said the decision had nothing to do with doping allegations surrounding the coach, which have been denied. "I`m not leaving the Nike Oregon Project and Alberto Salazar because of the doping allegations," Farah, 34, was quoted as saying by The Sun newspaper`s website (www.thesun.co.uk). "This situation has been going on for over two years, if I was going to leave because of that I would have done." In February, Salazar denied administering banned supplements to his athletes and issued a firm rebuttal of what he said were false allegations against him in a British newspaper. The Sunday Times reported that Salazar had used prohibited infusions of supplements to improve the performance of his runners, citing what the newspaper said was a leaked United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) report. But Farah said in Monday`s interview: "As I`ve always said, I am (a) firm believer in clean sport and I strongly believe that anyone who breaks the rules should be punished. "If Alberto had crossed the line I would be out the door but USADA has not charged him with anything. If I had ever had any reason to doubt Alberto, I would not have stood by him all this time." Farah, who was born in Somalia and moved to Britain at the age of eight, won 5,000m and 10,000m gold at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics as well as six world titles at those distances. He ended his track career this year to concentrate on road running and will now work with Gary Lough, who previously coached his own wife and women`s marathon world record holder, Britain`s Paula Radcliffe. "I`m leaving (Salazar and the U.S.) simply because my family and I are moving back to London," said Farah, who won 10,000m gold and then a silver in the 5,000m at the World Athletics Championships in London in the final track race of his career.

Athletics: Farah splits with coach Salazar, moving back to London

Botswana&#39;s star run machine Isaac Makwala was denied entry to the London stadium which is hosting the World Athletics Championships after the runner was reportedly hit by the norovirus bug in his hotel.

&nbsp;&quot;Isaac Makwala was withdrawn from the men&#39;s 400m (Final) due to a medical condition on the instruction of the IAAF medical delegate,&quot; world athletics&#39; ruling body said in a statement.

However, Makwala tried to get into the warm-up track at the London stadium ahead of the final but was denied entry by security personnel leading to huge furore during the event.

&quot;There have been no medical tests at all, it&#39;s just generalised assumptions because of the outbreak of sickness and he has just one of those symptoms,&quot; he told the BBC.

The IAAF issued a second statement later on Tuesday saying Makwala had been diagnosed with an &quot;infectious disease&quot; following an examination by a doctor in the warm-up medical centre on Monday.

&quot;The team doctor, team leader and team physio had been informed following the medical examination that the athlete should be quarantined for 48 hours and would, therefore, be missing the 400m final on Tuesday,&quot; it said.

&quot;The IAAF is very sorry that the hard work and talent of Isaac Makwala won&rsquo;t be on display tonight but we have to think of the welfare of all athletes.&quot;

The Botswana&#39;s athletics federation chief, Falcon Sedimo hit back, saying, &quot;There has been no official communication, no formal communication from the IAAF at all.&quot; However, the IAAF in its statement denied the allegation, reiterating the player had been informed prior to the event.

Meanwhile, at least 30 athletes at the world athletics championships have been infected in a suspected outbreak of norovirus, reports said.

Botswana's star run machine Isaac Makwala was denied entry into the stadium after he was reportedly hit by the norovirus bug

Botswana's star run machine Isaac Makwala was denied entry to the London stadium which is hosting the World Athletics Championships after the runner was reportedly hit by the norovirus bug in his hotel. "Isaac Makwala was withdrawn from the men's 400m (Final) due to a medical condition on the instruction of the IAAF medical delegate," world athletics' ruling body said in a statement. However, Makwala tried to get into the warm-up track at the London stadium ahead of the final but was denied entry by security personnel leading to huge furore during the event. "There have been no medical tests at all, it's just generalised assumptions because of the outbreak of sickness and he has just one of those symptoms," he told the BBC. The IAAF issued a second statement later on Tuesday saying Makwala had been diagnosed with an "infectious disease" following an examination by a doctor in the warm-up medical centre on Monday. "The team doctor, team leader and team physio had been informed following the medical examination that the athlete should be quarantined for 48 hours and would, therefore, be missing the 400m final on Tuesday," it said. "The IAAF is very sorry that the hard work and talent of Isaac Makwala won’t be on display tonight but we have to think of the welfare of all athletes." The Botswana's athletics federation chief, Falcon Sedimo hit back, saying, "There has been no official communication, no formal communication from the IAAF at all." However, the IAAF in its statement denied the allegation, reiterating the player had been informed prior to the event. Meanwhile, at least 30 athletes at the world athletics championships have been infected in a suspected outbreak of norovirus, reports said.

IAAF denies Botswana's Isaac Makwala entry into London Stadium

The crackdown on athletes caught up in recent doping scandals is a step in the right direction for the sport, Allyson Felix says, but the American sprinter is still worried it will not be a level playing field at next month&#39;s Rio Olympics. 
 
The 30-year-old qualified for her fourth Olympics earlier this month but will not be gunning for a 200-400 metres double after finishing fourth over the shorter distance at the US trials in Oregon. 
 
Athletics has been under the spotlight due to a doping scandal that saw Russia banned from competing in the sport at the Rio Games after a World Anti-Doping Agency report uncovered systematic abuse in the country. 
 
Kenya&#39;s team were also in danger of missing Rio before their government passed legislation that complied with anti-doping codes. 
 
&quot;The number of scandals we see now just shows the real issues that are there in sports,&quot; Felix told reporters in Beverley Hills. &quot;I would say that my confidence isn&#39;t high to think that there are not real issues.&nbsp;I would hope that the playing field is more level (but) it is very hard to deal with as a clean athlete.&nbsp;You are going to the biggest race of your life and you hope that that is a clean race. But can you say that you are a 100 per cent that you are sure?&nbsp;I don&#39;t think that you can say that.&quot; 
 
Felix said athletics was working hard to clean up the sport. 
 
&quot;It is hard ... but I hope we are moving in the right direction,&quot; she added. &quot;I think that exposing athletes that are happening now is I think is a step in the right direction.&quot; 
 
Felix, who won the 200 at the London Games in 2012, had been attempting to do a 200-400 double at Rio but battled an ankle injury in the leadup to the trials in Oregon.&nbsp;The injury had affected her conditioning and she failed to qualify for the 200 by 0.01 seconds. 
 
&quot;I think that what happened to me was just unfortunate. I think injuries are a part of sport and it is something that you just have to deal with,&quot; she added.&nbsp;&quot;For me I feel so grateful to have made this team at all as two months ago I was not walking at all.&nbsp;So it&#39;s pretty amazing to me that I&#39;m still going to Rio and while it doesn&#39;t look exactly how I hoped it would. But I&#39;m still going after it with everything I have.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

'...My confidence isn't high to think that there are not real issues...it is very hard to deal with as a clean athlete'--Allyson Felix

The crackdown on athletes caught up in recent doping scandals is a step in the right direction for the sport, Allyson Felix says, but the American sprinter is still worried it will not be a level playing field at next month's Rio Olympics. The 30-year-old qualified for her fourth Olympics earlier this month but will not be gunning for a 200-400 metres double after finishing fourth over the shorter distance at the US trials in Oregon. Athletics has been under the spotlight due to a doping scandal that saw Russia banned from competing in the sport at the Rio Games after a World Anti-Doping Agency report uncovered systematic abuse in the country. Kenya's team were also in danger of missing Rio before their government passed legislation that complied with anti-doping codes. "The number of scandals we see now just shows the real issues that are there in sports," Felix told reporters in Beverley Hills. "I would say that my confidence isn't high to think that there are not real issues. I would hope that the playing field is more level (but) it is very hard to deal with as a clean athlete. You are going to the biggest race of your life and you hope that that is a clean race. But can you say that you are a 100 per cent that you are sure? I don't think that you can say that." Felix said athletics was working hard to clean up the sport. "It is hard ... but I hope we are moving in the right direction," she added. "I think that exposing athletes that are happening now is I think is a step in the right direction." Felix, who won the 200 at the London Games in 2012, had been attempting to do a 200-400 double at Rio but battled an ankle injury in the leadup to the trials in Oregon. The injury had affected her conditioning and she failed to qualify for the 200 by 0.01 seconds. "I think that what happened to me was just unfortunate. I think injuries are a part of sport and it is something that you just have to deal with," she added. "For me I feel so grateful to have made this team at all as two months ago I was not walking at all. So it's pretty amazing to me that I'm still going to Rio and while it doesn't look exactly how I hoped it would. But I'm still going after it with everything I have." (Reuters)

American sprinter doubts Olympic competitors are clean

World athletics federation IAAF has&nbsp;come closer to destroying sport in Russia than helping it develop by suspending the country&#39;s track and field team over doping offences, the Russian sport minister said. 
 
First imposed in November, the IAAF ban was extended on Friday and supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Saturday. 
 
&quot;I have written an open letter to (the IAAF)... If you are an organisation whose aim is to develop athletics then you have done everything to destroy it,&quot; Vitaly Mutko told Reuters in an interview. 
 
Russian track and field athletes had not participated in international competitions in January. 
 
&quot;I, on behalf of the state, cannot finance the country&#39;s national team. That means all this is falling apart. Next, I cannot finance the training centre, all these are closing down. The young athletes do not have any motivation,&quot; Mutko said. 
 
Individual Russian track and field athletes assessed as clean will be able to compete for their country in Brazil, IOC President Thomas Bach said on Tuesday, diluting the IAAF&#39;s ban. 
 
International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach also said all competitors from both Russia and Kenya would, given their countries&#39; recent history of doping, have to be screened individually before being allowed to participate in the Games. 
 
He did not elaborate on what the evaluation would include. 
 
The Russian track and field team remains suspended from Rio de Janeiro after the IOC supported the ban, for systemic doping, which world athletics federation IAAF had extended on Friday. 
 
But Bach, speaking at the end of a summit on doping, offered a limited number of Russian athletes the chance to race under their flag. 
 
In a decision welcomed by the sports ministry in Moscow, he said those cleared by the IAAF or the Court of Arbitration for Sport as clean and eligible would be able to compete in Brazil. 
 
The unsatisfactory record of anti-doping bodies in Russia, as well as Kenya, had put &quot;very serious doubts on the presumption of innocence&quot; of their athletes, Bach said. 
 
But they had the right of appeal and &quot;if there are (Russian) athletes qualified then they will compete as members of the Russian Olympic Committee team,&quot; he told reporters. 
 
The IAAF had said on Friday that any Russian athlete would have to compete under a neutral flag, a recommendation it reiterated on Tuesday following Bach&#39;s comments. 
 
&quot;This decision has been unequivocally supported across sport and the IOC Summit today unanimously agreed to fully respect the IAAF decision,&quot; the federation said in a statement. 
 
(Reuters)&nbsp;

However, Russia's sports minister has said that the suspensions are destroying sport in the country

World athletics federation IAAF has come closer to destroying sport in Russia than helping it develop by suspending the country's track and field team over doping offences, the Russian sport minister said. First imposed in November, the IAAF ban was extended on Friday and supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Saturday. "I have written an open letter to (the IAAF)... If you are an organisation whose aim is to develop athletics then you have done everything to destroy it," Vitaly Mutko told Reuters in an interview. Russian track and field athletes had not participated in international competitions in January. "I, on behalf of the state, cannot finance the country's national team. That means all this is falling apart. Next, I cannot finance the training centre, all these are closing down. The young athletes do not have any motivation," Mutko said. Individual Russian track and field athletes assessed as clean will be able to compete for their country in Brazil, IOC President Thomas Bach said on Tuesday, diluting the IAAF's ban. International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach also said all competitors from both Russia and Kenya would, given their countries' recent history of doping, have to be screened individually before being allowed to participate in the Games. He did not elaborate on what the evaluation would include. The Russian track and field team remains suspended from Rio de Janeiro after the IOC supported the ban, for systemic doping, which world athletics federation IAAF had extended on Friday. But Bach, speaking at the end of a summit on doping, offered a limited number of Russian athletes the chance to race under their flag. In a decision welcomed by the sports ministry in Moscow, he said those cleared by the IAAF or the Court of Arbitration for Sport as clean and eligible would be able to compete in Brazil. The unsatisfactory record of anti-doping bodies in Russia, as well as Kenya, had put "very serious doubts on the presumption of innocence" of their athletes, Bach said. But they had the right of appeal and "if there are (Russian) athletes qualified then they will compete as members of the Russian Olympic Committee team," he told reporters. The IAAF had said on Friday that any Russian athlete would have to compete under a neutral flag, a recommendation it reiterated on Tuesday following Bach's comments. "This decision has been unequivocally supported across sport and the IOC Summit today unanimously agreed to fully respect the IAAF decision," the federation said in a statement. (Reuters)

IOC offers Rio lifeline to Russian track and field athletes

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