INSIDE TRACK NEWSLETTER OF EUROPEAN ATHLETICS JUNE 2017

IMPECCABLE INDOORS Local heroine Spanovic comes good at 2017

Athletics 2020 Countdown to 2018 'I Run Clean' Education Programme Record Revolution 2017 EUROPEAN ATHLETICS CONGRESS

organisation but it also forms part of the VILNIUS AWAITS wider Convention. The highlight of the The Lithuanian capital will host the most important events entire event will be the final night gala at in European Athletics' decision-making calendar. which the 2017 Golden Tracks winners will be announced. The biennial European Athletics In March, it was agreed that European Last year’s glittering and star-studded Congress will take place as part of the Athletics Athletes Commission Chair occasion in Funchal, Portugal, saw a European Athletics Convention this Periklís Iakovákis will join the European quartet of very worthy winners – European autumn, which will be held from 12-14 Athletics Council as an ex-officio member. Athletes of the Year Mo Farah and Ruth October in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius. The 2006 European Athletics Beitia, along with Rising Stars Nafi Thiam Perhaps the most important issue that Championships 400m hurdles champion and Max Hess – so this year’s event is the Congress will face, as there will be no was elected to the Athletes Commission already one to look forward to even elections during this cycle and until 2019, in 2014 and will hold his post until the though the summer season has hardly will be examining and voting on changes next elections during the 2018 European begun. to the European Athletics Constitution. Athletics Championships. In addition to the TV coverage of the The CORE (Constitution Review) Working “At the next Congress in Vilnius, awards ceremony across the continent Group has been working on revising the I will be proposing a change to our last year, European Athletics distributed Constitution to bring it into line with the Constitution which will mean that the a video news release (VNR) for the new IAAF Constitution that was adopted Athletes Commission Chair will become a occasion throughout the world for the first at the end of last year and make it more voting member of the European Athletics time. This was watched by a cumulative relevant to and consistent with the times Council,” said President Svein Arne audience of approximately six million we live in. Hansen. people. An important change to the Constitution “This will further integrate the athletes It shows that investments in such is the proposal to give athletes a into the fabric of European Athletics.” initiatives continue not only to contribute greater say in how our sport is run and, The Congress is the General Assembly of to European Athletics’ brand exposure but specifically, in how European Athletics European Athletics’ Member Federations also to showcase the positive role models conducts its business. and the ultimate rule-making body of the of our sport.

CEO: Christian Milz Co-ordination: Design, Production: James Mulligan, Geraldine Moretti SportBusiness Communications Office: European Athletics Communication Gautam House, 1-3 Shenley Ave, , Avenue Louis-Ruchonnet 16 Department Middx, HA4 6BP, United Kingdom European Athletics CH-1003 Phone +41 (0)21 313 43 57 Phone +44 (0)1494 728842 Association Européenne d’Athlétisme Switzerland [email protected] [email protected] Phone +41 (0)21 313 43 50 President: Svein Arne Hansen Fax +41 (0)21 313 43 51 Text, Photos: Print: Pensord Press, UK James Mulligan, Geraldine Moretti, Phil Vice Presidents: [email protected] Minshull, Steven Mills, SportBusiness Follow us: Dobromir Karamarinov www.european-athletics.org 2 | INSIDE TRACK Communications, Svein Arne Hansen, facebook.com/EuropeanAthletics Frank Hensel Inside Track is published by European Christian Milz, Andy Heading, @euroathletics Jean Gracia Athletics Getty Images YouTube/European Athletics WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT CLARITY AND CONSULTATION

Recently, I was interviewed by a well-known sport business publication which asked a number of pertinent questions about the state of our sport, especially in Europe. Upon consideration, I think it’s worth revisiting some of the answers I gave to re-state the position of European Athletics, especially with regards to the concepts of revising our sport’s records. Both of these issues have been of particular interest to me as they were part of my commitment to change when I became President in April 2015. The issue of revising the record books created headlines around the world at the start of May when European Athletics signalled its intention to look into this area following the Council decision to endorse the recommendations of the working party on this issue. I am going to be honest and acknowledge that reactions have been mixed but I was also not surprised. It was anticipated that a number of high-profile athletes, some of whom are record holders, as well as a few Member Federations would not be 100 per cent in agreement with our proposals. It also has to be said that we are very conscious of the fact that we must be aware of, and sympathetic, to their concerns even if it has not always been portrayed that way in some of the media coverage of this issue. But I think there has been an assumption by some people, and again this includes the way the some media has interpreted the situation, that this is a fait accompli. This is not the case. To be clear, European Athletics does intend to seek more consultation and do more work on this issue. However, the proposals also have considerable support from all sectors of our sport and there are three main principles relating to the revision of records upon which everyone agrees. With respect to our planned changes which could see an entirely new type of competition introduced I was very impressed with the Nitro Athletics competitions in Australia earlier this year and they deservedly got considerable coverage around the world. However, I want to stress that European Athletics will not be just replicating what our Australian colleagues have created but devising our own product. At the moment, no firm decisions have been made about the format nor, indeed, when it will be formally launched but further details can be found in this issue of Inside Track which are devoted to Dynamic New Athletics (DNA). Consultations with all our stakeholders, and especially the public, are ongoing to find out what would appeal to them and how we can collectively take athletics forward. Other sports – I’m thinking about soccer, rugby and cricket while golf has an innovative team competition which will make its debut at next year’s European Championships – have very successfully changed and added to their competition formats without losing their core qualities so it is very relevant and important that we ask ourselves the question: “Is there something European Athletics can do, based on research with the public?" Svein Arne Hansen

INSIDE TRACK | 3 DYNAMIC NEW ATHLETICS

DNA - A NEW VISION Dynamic New Athletics holds out the promise of a new and exciting format, but what exactly will it be?

Plenty of people have already heard about the European format and, importantly, it will support and complement the Athletics initiative Athletics 2020 (now known as Dynamic New promotion of the existing European Athletics Competition Athletics, or DNA for short), and many more will hear about Programme. it over the next two years. But just what is this project that is A version of the new format is intended to be tried for the designed to help modernise athletics and take our sport to new first time in 2019 where there is an opportunity for it to form audiences? athletics’ involvement in the European Games in Minsk, Belarus, DNA is a vision that has been more than a year in creation in June of that year. This will mean moving the European Team that will see European Athletics work to create a youth-friendly Championships to August 2019. European Athletics plan on then format of athletics. Our society has a wide range of choices when rolling out the new product from 2020 onwards. it comes to entertainment and this format will be one that best meets expectations when it comes down to engaging with sport A NEW AND EXCITING FORMAT or other cultural activities. Full details of the concept are currently being refined and In simple terms, European Athletics wants people to watch, individual components can still change. However, it is likely that the following elements will be included: and hopefully participate in athletics in preference to sedentary, less physically healthy choices such as sitting in front of the TV or • A team competition as part of a knock-out series/tournament playing computer games for long periods of time. • A showcase of the fundamental athletic skills of speed, DNA recognises that we are in a competitive marketplace with endurance and power combined with tactical and strategic other sports vying for young people’s attention and involvement. elements of a team competition In that context it is important to note that some other sports • Simple rules and an easy-to-follow scoring structure have already enjoyed some very successful format changes. • A compact format with the event not lasting more than 2 hours In coming up with a new format DNA has set out some • A scoring system that provides unpredictability to the end and clear principles not least of which is that it must be a credible • A structure where element counts and every performance is and sustainable display of elite athletics showcasing the core valuable attributes of the sport – running, jumping and throwing. This, in turn, should inspire and motivate children and young people and Compared to what can be called traditional athletics, audiences so contribute to the development of the sport. will certainly notice some changes with a mixture of traditional DNA envisions the creation of a new entertainment product and new, or ‘non-standard’, disciplines where team scoring has that is commercially and publicly attractive, appealing to the a priority over individual performances. Spectators will also be youth and showcasing the best of the sport. Digital technology closer to the action than is usual for the typical athletics stadium and social media will be highly integrated into a new innovative used for major international championships. Television viewers

4 | INSIDE TRACK DYNAMIC NEW ATHLETICS

can expect a show that is visually appealing and which they can on all technology devices via improved in-stadia and digital presentation.

NEXT STEPS The concept is already in the process of being developed and should be presented to the European Athletics Council later this year. It will then be rolled out and promoted throughout 2018 and in the early part of 2019. “The emphasis of this new concept is to create an ‘entertainment event’ that is not only credible and sustainable but also commercially and publicly attractive,” commented European Athletics CEO Christian Milz. “We want this new event to showcase the DNA of athletics and also to support and promote the existing competition programme, including our ‘jewel in the crown’ – the European Athletics Championships, which is our most important and prestigious competition for our sport in Europe. “The integration of digital technology and social media – as we are targeting young adults aged 16-30 – will be central to the concept design, promotion and execution. “Alongside the DNA project, we have an unparalleled market research opportunity and we will be conducting a SWOT (Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats) analysis on all the events in our existing competition programme. “This is a huge task and being undertaken by us for the first time. From this, we will know exactly how much each event in our portfolio costs – both financially and in terms of human resources – and how much we benefit from each and every European Athletics competition,” added Milz.

INSIDE TRACK | 5 BELGRADE 2017

Britian's Richard Kilty takes gold in the 60m IMPECCABLE INDOORS With an impressive arena, high quality presentation, a sellout crowd and a huge TV audience around Europe, the Indoor Championships lived up to every expectation.

When the Serbian capital, Belgrade, who praised the work of Local Organising Outside the stadium, the European was awarded the 2017 European Committee President Slobodan Brankovic Athletics Indoor Championships enjoyed Athletics Indoor Championships back and his team who had done, he said, “a a big rise in TV audiences with an increase in 2014, Veselin Jevrosimovic, President fantastic job”. in coverage from 29 European national of the Serbian Athletics Federation, told During the competition itself a large and broadcasters translating into a 16 per President Svein Arne Hansen that they enthusiastic crowd watched as Rio Olympic cent increase in total hours viewed on the would be the best organised in the event’s gold medallist Belgian, Nafi Thiam set a previous edition in two years ago. history, and staged in the most beautiful pentathlon PB to take gold, Britain’s Laura President Hansen heralded the figures stadium. He admitted that some were Muir do the double in the 1500m and as showing athletics remained relevant sceptical at the time but Belgrade pulled 3000m and set two new Championship and engaging especially to a younger age off a significant achievement in March. records in the process, and Kevin Meyer of group. “I am especially pleased that the On the eve of the event, President France adding to his Olympic silver medal biggest proportion of the viewers were in Hansen described the arena as “the best with gold in the heptathlon and a new the 25-49 years age-group. This contradicts indoor facility I have ever seen.” This was European record. But the biggest cheers the view that athletics is predominantly no idle comment as Hansen has been of the weekend were reserved for local being watched by a mature audience. to every European and World Indoor hero Ivana Spanovic who made it three We still need to look at improving our TV Championship since the 1980s so he European golds in a row. Her presentation to engage further the young should know. winning jump of 7.24m was the longest for adult audience of 15-24 year-olds but the The endorsement was backed up by almost 30 years and the crowd raised the figures from Belgrade show that we are European Athletics CEO Christian Milz roof when the result flashed up. going in the right direction.

6 | INSIDE TRACK BELGRADE 2017

Ivana Spanovic lit up the Kombank Arena with the longest jump of her career

INSIDE TRACK | 7 BELGRADE 2017

Kevin Meyer celebrates a new European helptathlon record

DATA POINTS 560 29 athletes participating European national TV broadcasters KALLUR CALLS TIME Whilst many of the athletes at the European Championships were at the start of senior athletic careers, at the other end of the spectrum Sweden's Susanna Kallur ran her final competitive race. 16% 46 The European Indoor 60m hurdles champion in 2005 and 2007 and increase in total hours countries represented outdoor champion in 2006 called time viewed compared to 2015 on a glittering career. With her record in indoor championships, Belgrade was the perfect end for Kallur who declared herself very thankful to be there after a period out of the sport. "I have had a lot of injuries over the past eight years so I'm just grateful to be here and to end my career at this type of competition," she said. 511 26 Although she has yet to decide on her next steps she said; "I love athletics so hours of TV coverage Member Federations it's not hard to imagine that I will find wining medals another role in the sport."

8 | INSIDE TRACK U23 & U20 CHAMPIONSHIPS

GREEN INSPIRATION EUROPEAN ATHLETICS

advantages of organic food production in ATHLETICS AND MORE protecting the environment. In the build up to the Championships, IN BYDGOSZCZ AND there will be visits to the training and warm up venues where sports and games will be organised to get the young people moving GROSSETO and raise awareness of nature and our This summer’s European Athletics events will promote green reliance on the various trees and plants around us. Finally, during the Championships education and inspire the next generation of athletes. themselves, several athlete ambassadors will As young athletes from around Europe of waste produced during the event, there be taking part in specially organised sessions descend on Bydgoszcz for the U23 will also be an incentive for visitors to collect with the students building on a project called Championships, and Grosseto for the U20 plastic bottle caps with prizes on offer and a School with the Champion run by the local Championships, they will be part of initiatives donation of the proceeds to charity. To help organising committee over the past year to leave a wider legacy of green inspiration them recover from their cycle generation bringing Italian Olympic and Paralympic and healthy living. Event organisers in both and litter collection efforts visitors will have athletes into local schools Poland and Italy are planning activities to access to a special Green Zone where local With the support of the national sports make the events more environmentally ecological food and drinks will be prepared. federations, athletes have met with students friendly, promote healthy habits and inspire Meanwhile, a week later at the European to share the stories of their sporting careers sports participation among children and Athletics U20 Championship in Grosseto, and to explain the importance of dedication young people. there is a project involving young students in sport and respect for others. Organisers of the European Athletics U23 aged between 6 and 18 years from the city's Among the athletes who will be coming Championships in Bydgoszcz in July are schools. In advance of the event there are a to Grosseto as the face of the European installing a “Green Energy” station close to range of activities to communicate the role Athletics U20 Championships will be Andrew the stands where spectators will be able to that food plays in both a healthy lifestyle and Howe, a world-class athlete, whose career produce electricity to charge their mobile a sustainable environment. Through talks took off in Grosseto during the 2004 World devices by riding specially installed bicycle from nutritionists and visits to local farms U20 Championships and culminated with generators. the children and young people will learn a silver medal in the long jump at the 2007 As well as trying to reduce the overall level the importance of healthy nutrition and the World Championships in Osaka, Japan.

INSIDE TRACK | 9 EUROPEAN ATHLETICS COUNCIL

RECORD REVOLUTION Council unanimous in accepting a proposal to rewrite world and European records.

The European Athletics Council, at its meeting stored and available for re-testing for 10 years. Above united voice: the European Athletics in Paris in April, unanimously accepted a project This last stipulation was backed up by an additional Council standing taskforce’s recommendations to rewrite world and recommendation that record recognition be shoulder to shoulder European records. The taskforce’s report has now withdrawn at any time if the athlete commits a doping been forwarded to the IAAF with the recommendation or integrity violation, even if it does not directly impact that the two organisations coordinate the the record performance. This would prevent records implementation of new record ratification rules. from standing where an athlete is discredited or The proposals are part of a wider set of actions when technological advances result in doping being being worked on by European Athletics which are detected months or years after a record has been set. intended to address the governance and integrity In a strong endorsement of the Council’s decision, challenges faced by the sport and to help rebuild President Svein Arne Hansen said: “Performance essential public trust. records that show the limits of human capability are In their report, the project taskforce called for one of the great strengths of our sport, but they are higher technical standards, increased doping control meaningless if people don’t really believe them. measures and new personal integrity requirements “What we are proposing is revolutionary, not just for record holders. The standards proposed require because most world and European records will have that world and European records be recognised only to be replaced, but because we want to change where the performance is achieved at competitions the concept of a record and raise the standards on a list of approved international events where for recognition to a point where everyone can be the highest standards of officiating and technical confident that everything is fair and above board. equipment can be guaranteed, the athlete has been Since the Council decision was made public, a wide subject to an agreed number of doping control tests in range of reactions have been received. Whilst there the months leading up to the performance and where is a strong consensus that the current record lists the doping control sample taken after the record is are problematic and that action should be taken,

10 | INSIDE TRACK EUROPEAN ATHLETICS COUNCIL

“It’s a radical solution for sure, but we need decisive action to restore credibility and trust" Svein Arne Hansen

some athletes who would be affected personally have are more robust and safer than fifteen or even ten expressed disappointment whilst supporting the years ago. criteria for recognition of future records. “Of course, for this to be adopted for world As President Hansen said: “The most controversy records by the IAAF it needs global approval from comes from some of the current record holders all Area Associations. There will be athletes, current who, of course, would be personally affected by the record holders, who will feel that the history we are proposed reassignment of record recognition. We recalibrating will take something away from them but must be aware of and sympathetic to their concerns. I think this is a step in the right direction and, if it is "Current records not established in accordance with organised and structured properly, we have a good the agreed standards will remain on the all-time list chance of winning back credibility in this area." but recognition will be transferred to performances Having been sent to the IAAF with President that meet the criteria. It’s a radical solution for sure, Hansen’s endorsement, the report will be considered but those of us who love athletics are tired of the at its Council Meeting in August where he will be cloud of encouraging members, on behalf of European doubt and innuendo that has hung over our records Athletics, to adopt the proposals. for too long,” he continued. “We need decisive action President Hansen recommended that everyone read to restore credibility and trust and I want to thank the the report, which can be accessed in multiple languages project taskforce, led by Pierce O’Callaghan, for their on the European Athletics website, and to send any great work in showing us a way forward." views to: [email protected]. “The findings of this further consultation will be NEXT STEP, IAAF COUNCIL forwarded to the IAAF Council to inform their own IAAF President Sebastian Coe, who attended the final discussions,” Hansen said. session of the meeting together with other European The European Athletics Council also accepted members of the IAAF Council, said, “I like this because recommendations to revoke a number of European it underlines that we [the governing bodies] have put Athlete of the Year Awards and European Athletics into place doping control systems and technology that Coaching Awards, subject to legal review.

European athletes wore bibs commiting them to 'running clean' at the European Athletics Championships in last year

INSIDE TRACK | 11 EUROPEAN ATHLETICS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

LOOKING TO LILLE

Every run, jump and throw will matter when 11 Member Federations compete at the European Athletics Team Championships.

Federation pride is at stake in Lille this June as good as the past two titles have gone to the host teams representing 11 countries compete for nation. Germany won in 2014 when the event continental plaudits in the seventh edition of was staged in Braunschweig, while Russia won the European Athletics Team Championships, the following year on home soil in Cheboksary. the world’s premier team competition between An innovative format designed to streamline nations, in Lille Métropole from 23-25 June. the schedule has also been unveiled for this France has staged what was the European Cup, year’s event. The championships will begin on the the forerunner to the current competition, on Friday afternoon and the first day’s programme five occasions, but this year will be the first time will be made up of heats in the sprints and the country has been the host for the European hurdles with the top eight finishers qualifying for Athletics Team Championships since it was a straight final to be held across the weekend. inaugurated in 2009. But what won’t change is that every point and Lille is a fitting host as the same venue staged performance counts and team spirit will be in the 1995 European Cup which produced one of abundance. the most memorable performances in the event’s “Around ten or so of my teammates were at history when Great Britain’s Jonathan Edwards the edge of the jumping mat. I felt as if I couldn’t bounded out to a marginally wind-aided triple fail. And it worked!” reflected French icon and jump of 18.43m, the longest mark ever recorded. world record-holder The Stadium Métropole Européene de Lille on his win at the 2015 European Athletics Team holds 19,000 people at full capacity and home Championships in Cheboksary. support could be a decisive factor as the French Lavillenie has an enduringly successful team looks to improve on their third-place finish affiliation with this competition. He cleared six – their best placing to date – from the most metres for the first time in his career to claim recent edition two years ago. maximum points and grab the headlines at the In fact, the omens for a maiden victory are first staging in the Portuguese city of Leiria eight

12 | INSIDE TRACK EUROPEAN ATHLETICS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

years ago – the first of his five wins in the event. will be looking for immediate promotion back to Lavillenie is expected to go head-to-head with the Super League, with the next competition to European indoor champion Piotr Lisek from be staged in Bydgoszcz, Poland, in 2019. Poland in what is shaping up to be one of the Maximum points from Tero Pitkamaki in the highlights of the programme. Joint European javelin was not enough to extricate Finland from 100m record-holder Jimmy Vicaut - who has a relegation place in Cheboksary two years ago already broken the 10-second barrier this season but the home crowd will be expecting nothing – will also be aiming for his third win in his less than another victory from Pitkamaki in what specialist event in Lille. is almost their national sport. Pitkamaki is now an elder statesman of the LEAGUE EVENTS IN VAASA, TEL AVIV AND MALTA Finnish team having also won when Vaasa staged Meanwhile, top level athletics will return to the the European Cup First League a decade ago. Karl’s Stadium in the university town of Vaasa, The bottom two nations face relegation to the Finland, the hosts of the European Athletics Team European Athletics Team Championships Second Championships First League. League which takes place this year in Tel Aviv on The 7,000-seater stadium is expected to be 24-25 June. The Israeli hosts will be expecting filled to capacity for the three-day event with maximum points from 2016 European silver both home and travelling supporters. medallist Hanna Minenko in the . The Finns are well-known for their love of A year after staging the Championships of athletics and their fellow Scandinavians Denmark, the Small States of Europe, the Maltese town of Norway and Sweden are also in the enlarged Marsa will play host to the Team Championships 12-team First League along with their near- Third League on the same weekend, a neighbours Estonia. competition which is expected to feature Finland – in a year when their country Albania’s rising start and reigning European celebrates a century as an independent nation – indoor long jump champion Izmir Smajlaj.

They'll be waiting: France's biggest stars will be determined to win team honours

"Every point and performance will count and team spirit will be vital"

INSIDE TRACK | 13 ANTI-DOPING

'I RUN CLEAN' EDUCATION REBOOT European Athletics makes anti-doping education a priority in the fight to make the sport drug free in Europe.

'I Run Clean' will extend its current scope this Clean’ initiative was brought to life. Above Winning clean: summer to become one of the most ambitious Fostering a sense of personal responsibility in Poland's 4x400m relay and, hopefully, effective anti-doping education individual athletes is fundamental to re-establishing team celebrate gold in Belgrade and show their campaigns in international sport; and possibly the and maintaining the credibility of our sport with the commitment to clean most ambitious one ever led by a continental sports general public and other stakeholders. This requires sport federation. a shift in attitude and behaviour from the many ‘I Run Clean’ was first used as a slogan at the 2015 athletes and organisations that European Athletics SPAR European Cross Country Championships and views as vital to our sport if it is to have a healthy is a slogan that has appeared, along with the same future. messages for jumping, throwing and mult-sport After looking at existing anti-doping education disciplines, on athletes' bibs at European Athletics programmes provided by various NGOs and national competitions ever since. organisations, European Athletics has come to the However, the campaign to make athletics in Europe view that making anti-doping education mandatory is 100 per cent drug-free is being taken to another the best way forward. level with the rollout of an associated educational A key feature of European Athletics' Anti-Doping campaign under the same maxim. Education Plan is that it is a ‘bottom-up’ approach The education of athletes has too often been on focusing on education. Previous anti-doping initiatives the periphery of the fight against doping but this have usually been ‘top down’ and concentrated on development sees it move to the core of this fight. testing. (It should be emphasised that this Education Education has also been identified as an area where Plan is seen as complementary to drug testing and the leadership of European Athletics can make a not envisaged in any way as a replacement for significant difference and has done so since the ‘I Run testing.)

14 | INSIDE TRACK ANTI-DOPING

WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF THE ‘I RUN CLEAN’ BUILDING AN ETHICAL FRAMEWORK EDUCATION PLAN? ‘I Run Clean’ is much more strongly focused on ethical ‘I Run Clean’ will run in all 51 European Athletics and values-based decision-making by the individual Member Federations and materials will be available athletes. It provides Interactive, personalised and initially in 12 languages. 'I Run Clean' will be launched integrated social media education modules that at the European Athletics U23 Championships in allows space for the user/athlete to reflect upon Bydgoszcz and then at the European Athletics U20 potential ethical dilemmas. Championships in Grosseto in July. The modular structure makes the educational From this point on, it will be rolled out at all process fast-paced and engaging and there is positive European Athletics competitions, across all age- reinforcement at every stage. The hope is that this will groups from U18 to senior events. build a long-term and robust ethical framework for By the time of the European Athletics each individual athlete. Championships in Paris in 2020, athletes of all At the moment it is only athletes who will be ages will have to have completed the ‘I Run Clean’ required to undergo this programme and obtain educational programme and have obtained a a license, but it is European Athletics’ intention license number to compete at a European Athletics ultimately to extend and expand the ‘I Run Clean’ competition. to include an athlete’s entourage e.g. coaches, team doctors, physios. MANDATORY EDUCATION AND LICENCES ‘I Run Clean’ is just the start, rather than An anti-doping licensing system is to be introduced the finish, of European Athletics’ anti-doping and the holding of such a license will become a initiatives that will help to eradicate – or, at mandatory condition for participating at European the very least, significantly reduce – drug Athletics competitions. taking in our sport. All athletes qualified for European Athletics competitions will have to go through the ‘I Run Clean’ educational programme to get their license. The license itself will be renewable every two years to reinforce the education and ethical values of being an athlete. The first competition for which completing this programme will be a mandatory condition for competitors will be the Gyor 2018 European Athletics Jumping clean: Spain's Pablo U18 Championships. Torrijos wears the bib in the The programme itself will be delivered via an Belgrade 2017 triple jump interactive computer-based learning system, incorporating questions and answers, which will also be available on other technology platforms such as tablets and smartphones. It will consist of a series of modules each taking 30-40 minutes to complete in total. The key features are:

• Values-based ethical decision making as an overarching theme • Video messages from ambassadors • Doping control procedures • Anti-doping rule violations • The WADA prohibited list • The ‘Whereabouts’ procedures • Therapeutic Use Exemptions "This ambitious extention • The use and issues relating to dietary supplements • Health consequences of doping of anti-doping education In addition, it is the intention of ‘I Run Clean’ to places it at the core of the encourage and enhance further learning for athletes and their entourages. fight for clean sport."

INSIDE TRACK | 15 EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS With just over a year to go until the Berlin 2018 European Athletics Championships the excitement is mounting.

As Europe approaches the one year and historic Olympiastadion. “Broadcasters will be able to crisscross milestone before the inaugural multisport Members of the European between events in both cities as they European Championships, preparations Championships Board met in February follow their national medal hopes.” are entering a new phase with work and agreed an action-packed overall Indeed, Berlin 2018 will greatly benefit being done on preparing the programme, sporting programme, which will run from the huge promotion of the televised building public awareness, and planning through Thursday 2 August to Sunday 12 events in in the week preceding extensive television coverage. August 2018 with 10 days of compelling the European Athletics Championships. The European Championships is a television coverage starting Friday 3 Building on the programme major new multisport event taking August, that “will deliver a schedule announcement, members of the place every four years, supported by packed with exciting finals and gold- European Championships 2018 Europe’s free-to-air broadcasters, which medal moments for television,” according Communications Working Group, which aggregates the existing senior continental to European Athletics President Svein includes representatives from the host championships of Athletics (European Arne Hansen. cities, all seven sports federations Athletics), Aquatics (LEN), Cycling His view was supported by Stefan and broadcast partner the European (UEC), Gymnastics (UEG), Rowing (FISA), Kuerten, Director of Eurovision Services Broadcasting Union, met at the House of Triathlon (ETU), with a new Golf Team and Sports Rights who said: “We are European Athletics in Lausanne in April. Championships (ET & LET) – all unified very happy with this exciting schedule. Capturing the interest of the public was under a common brand. In a multi-sport event, you can choose going to require a joint effort, European In the case of the Berlin 2018 European between the different sports and the Athletics CEO Christian Milz told members Athletics Championships – co-hosts of the opportunity to follow your national of the working group. “We have to work European Championships with Glasgow athletes across a variety of sport. hard to promote our event, we will – the best the sport has to offer on the Television and radio channels will be need to push the concept and educate continent will be showcased. able to switch from one highly attractive everyone within our own communities Approximately 1,500 athletes sport to another without interrupting and beyond,” he said. from European Athletics’ 51 Member their program and digital platforms will The group focused on the Federations will compete, and many propose a large choice of content which communications strategy to European, world and Olympic champions will accommodate all viewers.” raise awareness of the European – past, present and future – will be there Kuerten also claimed that the way the Championships and stressed the for six thrilling days of action from 7 to event will be covered will make strong importance of a well-planned and 12 August in the German capital’s famous links between Glasgow and Berlin. coordinated effort. Harnessing the power

16 | INSIDE TRACK EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

of social media will be an integral part in “I'm a great athletics fan,” he said. Production Coordination (EPC) and site making this multi-sport event a success “I used to train a lot with athletes and visits to prepare for a televisual event and a unique tagline, ‘#TheMoment’, will I know what it means to work hard in which will dominate the airwaves next help to engage a wider audience. sports. It's about always moving your own summer. The recent World Broadcaster The common vision is to create a borders. This is what top athletes and Briefing was a major milestone must-watch, must-attend experience tennis players have in common. in developing up to 300 hours of that elevates the status of the champions Another way the organisers are programming delivered to a potential of Europe. It’s therefore necessary to building the buzz in Berlin is through worldwide audience of more than 1 communicate effectively ahead of time volunteers. Applications opened in April billion people. to help build anticipation and increase with 2,000 volunteering opportunities At the briefing, EPC introduced its media coverage before, during and after available and 1800 pre-registration international signal production plans and the championships. already received. This first application gave an overview of the content, venue Berlin 2018 were off the mark with phase ran through to the end of June with and network services to be offered to the launch of a promotional film entitled interviews taking place until October. The rights-holding broadcasters, including “Urban Events”. The mini-movie, which organisers, Berlin 2018 are working with integrated digital solutions to support has been aired in cinemas, on TV and on SOLID – Event Management + Consulting first- and second-screen programming. social media features three of Germany’s and the volunteer team will be complete The team will also set up and run an current athletics stars, long jumper by the end of 2017. International Broadcaster Centre next to Sosthene Moguenara, 100m record Frank Kowalski, managing director the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. holder Julian Reus and Rio 2016 Olympic of Berlin 2018, said: “The volunteer The response to the plans was Games javelin champion Thomas Röhler program has a very high priority in enthusiastic as confirmed by Stefan – going through their paces in Berlin’s our preparations. Our volunteers will Kuerten who said: “As the Broadcast streets and squares. be the face of this European Athletics Partner and Host Broadcaster, we are The film was unveiled at the kind of Championships throughout the city and in pleased to see such strong interest glittering premiere normally reserved the stadium. Especially here in Berlin they from the broadcasting community,” he for Hollywood blockbusters. Among are sure to bring a great feel-good factor said. “We've received positive feedback the celebrities in attendance, tennis to visitors and athletes with ‘heart and from rights-holding broadcasters and legend Boris Becker was not alone in his snout’ as we say Berlin.” will continue working with all parties excitement about next year’s European Elsewhere international broadcasters to showcase engaging content for Athletics Championships. were holding meetings with Eurovision audiences.”

INSIDE TRACK | 17 PARIS 2020

Above: The Charléty Stadium is well used to attracting a crowd for athletics events POSITIVE ENDORSEMENT Below: President Hansen seals the deal with André Giraud, President of the French Athletics Federation and French athletics FOR PARIS stars Marie-José Pérec and Yohann Diniz With an ambitious and environmentally friendly proposal, Paris is the choice to host the 2020 European Athletics Championships.

The European Athletics Council was Despite France being one of the oldest athletics. The stadium’s capacity is perfect unanimous in awarding the French capital European federations, the last time the for the European Athletics Championships city with the 2020 European Athletics French public had an opportunity to and the event is likely to attract a big Championships, the first in the country support its athletes on home soil at a crowd, particularly during the evening for over 80 years. The French Athletics European Athletics Championships was sessions. The expertise of the French Federation and Paris 2020 committee made way back in 1938 at the Olympic Stadium in Athletics Federation and the presence of some excellent presentations and the bid Colombes. At the time, just 272 athletes, all Europe’s top athletes are a guarantee that was greatly enhanced by the considerable men, competed from 23 different nations these championships will remain etched in support it has received from the public whilst the women took part in a special people’s minds.” authorities both in Paris and the whole of championship in Vienna. The scale will be France. completely different, of course, in 2020 At the heart of the proposal is an with an anticipated 1,500 athletes from 51 ecologically neutral plan based on the European Athletics member federations. Green Inspiration concept which will The Charléty Stadium, which can seat minimise the environmental impact of the 20,000 people, is a historic athletics venue competition. The Charléty Stadium in the having hosted the Finals of the IAAF Grand south of Paris is just a few minutes walk Prix in 1994 and 2002. In July 2017, the away from the location of the athlete’s Meeting de Paris (IAAF Diamond League) village, there will be special incentives for will also be held at the stadium. spectators to use public transport and Welcoming the Council’s decision paperless communications will also help to President Svein Arne Hansen said: “Charléty reduce the event’s carbon footprint. Stadium offers a fantastic infrastructure for

18 | INSIDE TRACK STATE OF OUR SPORT

by an internationally-reputable marketing company showed that European Athletics Exciting Times Off was the fastest-growing international sports federation on Twitter between The Track March 2016-March 2017, growing by 125.3 per cent in 12 months. European Athletics CEO Christian Milz reports on Of course, our total figures are still the numerous initiatives designed to continue much smaller than the federation to strengthen the organisation. behemoths of the sports world, such as the IOC and FIFA, but our rate of progress This is an ideal opportunity to let ‘I Run Clean’ has existed as a slogan and is being noticed by many different sectors everyone know that we have not let a broad concept for a while, most visibly and this can only be good for European up in strengthening the future of our on our competition bibs as a mechanism Athletics and our stakeholders. organisation. Several new projects have to give a voice to clean athletes, but we are One specific example of our rising been initiated that should reinforce now progressing with a robust anti-doping profile with the general public is that European Athletics’ position and reputation education programme under this brand content published on our various social as a very reliable, strong and coherent name and banner. media platforms during the European organisation. More details are given elsewhere in Athletics Indoor Championships Belgrade To that end, we have started discussions this issue of Inside Track but we will be 2017 again made a big impact with with our Broadcast Partner the EBU, the making such education mandatory, using approximately 5.2 million views of our European Broadcasting Union, about a an e-learning platform, with the launch video content, and a reach on social media long-term agreement. It is an ambitious planned for the European Athletics U23 of over 14 million. alliance but one that would secure the and U20 Championships in July. Christian Milz, CEO of European Athletics finances of European Athletics for years to The Gyor 2018 European Athletics come. Of course, there are some crucial U18 Championships will be the first elements linked to these negotiations, international athletics competition in not least of which is our continued the world where it will be 100 per cent involvement in the multi-sport European mandatory to complete an anti-doping Championships for subsequent editions education process in order to compete. after Berlin 2018. We will then roll the programme out We will have a much clearer picture by even further with the main aim of making the Council Meeting in November, but athletes, and ultimately all accredited team the prospect of being able to give positive officials, aware of the relevant ethics and news in various areas looks very good. values as well as the absolute necessity of The multi-sport European Championships having a 100 per cent clean sport. is a challenging concept for us as, in truth, In terms of communicating our nobody will be able to demonstrate the philosophies and values, our strong and real benefits for athletics until after the ever-improving brand identity was further first edition next year. However, we hope demonstrated when a recent survey to see a significant increase in television audiences and it is clear that there could be additional marketing and commercial benefits for European Athletics. Another big project of a very different nature but equally important is ‘I Run Clean’, the scale of which is among the most ambitious education campaigns ever undertaken by an international sports federation.

INSIDE TRACK | 19 NEWS IN BRIEF

NEWS

ENDORSING PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC BID

European Athletics President Svein Arne Hansen has endorsed the Paris 2024 bid to host the Olympic Games. The backing for Paris comes hard on the heels of the French capital being confirmed as the Host of for the 2020 European Athletics FUTURE EVENT HOSTS AWARDED Championships. The European Athletics Council The recent success of Poland, which "European Athletics has looked at awarded the 2019 European Athletics topped the medals table at both the both bids," he said, "and we believe U23 Championships to Gävle and the Amsterdam 2016 European Athletics that Paris is the best from an overall European Athletics U20 Championships Championships and the European perspective and specifically with to Borås, in Sweden, while the 2019 Athletics Indoor Championships in regards to our sport. European Athletics Team Championships Belgrade, indicates that they will have big “I am very happy, both personally Super League were allocated to the Polish ambitions for their team in front of the and on behalf of European Athletics, city of Bydgoszcz. home crowd in 2019. to give my full support to the Paris The Swedish delegation to the Bydgoszcz also has considerable bid. It has an excellent technical plan Council meeting in Paris expressed their experience in organising major athletics and one which places athletics at the enthusiasm and desire to organise both events in the Zdzisław Krzyszkowiak centre of the Games. these age-group championships in the Stadium. The city hosted the IAAF World “What is particularly impressive summer of 2019. Sweden boasts a rich U20 Championships in 2016 and is is the Paris 2024 commitment athletics tradition and has experience currently preparing for the European to sustainability which is a very of organising major European events in Athletics U23 Championships from 13-16 important area of interest to recent years, notably the July 2017. Bydgoszcz is also home to European Athletics. 2013 European Athletics Indoor the annual European Athletic Festival, a “Paris 2024 recently became Championships and Eskilstuna 2015 European Athletics Classic Meeting, which the first ever Olympic and European Athletics U20 Championships. is held annually in June. Paralympic Bid Committee Under the leadership of Federation Endorsing the decisions President to receive an internationally President Björn Nilsson the organisation Svein Arne Hansen said: “The Council recognised sustainability award is working hard to promote the sport was pleased with the impressive given to organisers who are able to the next generation of athletes and presentations for three of our most to the guarantee the sustainable to appeal to younger audiences in important events in 2019. We strongly management of their events. their country. Hosting these events is a appreciate the concept proposed by the “Should Paris be awarded the 2024 continuation of their efforts to develop Swedish delegation to stage both the U23 Olympic Games, the 2020 European the champions of tomorrow. and U20 Championships back-to-back. It Athletics Championships will provide The Polish presentation to the Council will also be a pleasure to return to Poland a wonderful opportunity for the emphasised the link between staging the where the enthusiasm for athletics is so organisers to go through their paces European Athletics Team Championships great. The exciting Team Championships in all areas, not least technically Super League in Bydgoszcz and efforts to format will certainly attract fans in and environmentally, four years ensure that athletics remains one of the numbers to Bydgoszcz to celebrate in advance of the city staging the most popular sports in the country. Europe’s top stars.” world’s greatest sports event.”

20 | INSIDE TRACK NEWS IN BRIEF

EUROPEAN RUNNING BUSINESS CONFERENCE LAUNCHED

The first European Running Business Conference will take place in Frankfurt between 27-29 October, concluding on the day of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon. The idea for the event originated from the European Athletics Running Expert Group and is supported politically and financially by the European Athletics Executive Board and Council. The primary goal of the European Running Business Conference is to position European Athletics at the centre of the running industry. It will provide the running movement with a business- oriented event where race directors can meet directly with suppliers, federations, media and industry experts. It will also be a chance to see behind the scenes of one Running USA Industry Conference which opportunities to be taken forward by race of the world's greatest marathons. gathers over 800 people annually. The organisers. The Conference is designed to be a intention is for the European Running Members of the IAAF Road Running platform to share knowledge and ideas. Business Conference to become a biennial Commission, European Athletics Running and be an opportunity for everyone fixture. Expert Group, the AIMS Council and involved in the running industry to gain Organisers are also inviting those who the WMM Board will be attending the best practice from some of the leading have spotted a gap in the running market European Running Business Conference lights in the business. It will also act as to pitch their idea at the conference. In along with European Athletics President a trendsetter for the running industry this way the event will provide a unique Svein Arne Hansen and IAAF President in Europe following the model of the platform for innovative ideas and new Sebastian Coe.

FINAL WIWA CONFERENCE HELD IN

IAAF. current roles. Inaugurated in 2013 as part of This year there were approximately London's bid to stage the 2017 IAAF 80 delegates, around a quarter of World Championships, the conferences whom were invited by European have been designed to create and Athletics, bringing the total number encourage women’s leadership and of participants over the five years to officiating in athletics. This is partly more than 120 women from nearly 60 in preparation for the IAAF World countries. They enjoyed an exciting Championships but the intention is programme of activities ahead of also to increase the involvement of a significant summer of athletics in women in the sport at all levels and London and elsewhere. across all functions and roles. This is in Among the speakers featuring this Sylvia Barlag with European Athletics line with European Athletics’ strategy year were European Athletics Vice Vice President Jean Gracia at the to ensure that the voices of women President Jean Gracia and IAAF and WIWA Seminar are well represented in The Council, on European Athletics Council Member Commissions and within local Member Sylvia Barlag. The fifth and final conference in the Federations. WIWA organiser Paula Gowing spoke annual World in (WIWA) All the participants who have about the impact the event has had series of seminars and lectures took attended since 2013 have had over the years saying: “We’re delighted place in London from 19-22 May. several years’ experience as an active with the progress we’ve made in helping The programme is the result competition or administrative official, women to develop in sport. of a close collaboration between many at the national level. Each of "It’s great to see women from all over British Athletics, the University of them holds aspirations and ambitions the world come together and we hope Loughborough and European Athletics, to become a leader in athletics in the that WIWA can act as a platform for and staged with the support of the future, or to enhance and expand their further progress in the coming years.”

INSIDE TRACK | 21 RUNNING FOR ALL

Xaghra Square where the Teamsport Gozo Half MORE NEW RACES CERTIFIED Marathon starts and finishes Gozo and Gothenburg are the latest to receive their certification from Running For All.

Malta has become the 42nd Member annual experience one to remember,” said support those who are willing to make all Federation to play host to a race certified race president Karl Sultana. the necessary sacrifices in order to defy the by European Athletics Running for All after The longevity and expansion of the odds and lead a healthy lifestyle,” said Mr. the Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon was race is admirable given the fact the entire Sultana. rewarded with a three-star certification operation is staffed by volunteers on a part- The half marathon itself takes place on rating. time basis, driven purely by their passion a demanding course but the runners are The half marathon is the country’s and fervour for the event. rewarded with a scenic view of the island oldest road race dating back to 1977 and, “We all do this for the pure satisfaction which takes in seven localities and starts despite its long history on the Maltese of seeing this annual event grow,” said Mr. and finishes in Xaghra Square. running scene, the organisers had to Sultana. “By being volunteers ourselves, Runners from as many as 41 countries implement a series of improvements to we were able to attract several others who were represented in this year’s race with meet the comprehensive quality and safety continue to contribute and help us organise local runner Charlton Debono (77:17) and standards set by Running for All. and maintain the race.” Ukraine’s Oksana Riabova (93:50) the first The biggest challenge was making sure The organisers want the Teamsport Gozo man and woman to cross the finish-line. the course was exactly 13.1 miles long but Half Marathon to act as a driver to change Next year’s race will take place on 28th the hard work and perseverance duly paid the wider social context in the country. April. off and the organisers were delighted with Malta has among the highest obesity rates a certification which puts Gozo firmly on in the European Union and one of the the European running map. long-term goals of the race is to promote “We have successfully managed to take the importance of physical activity. The a good parochial event and transform it addition of a walkathon to the programme into one of the most successful sporting has proved particularly successful in this events in Malta. Achieving this honour was regard, but the organisers are not prepared crucial which makes us extremely proud to rest on their laurels. of our race and gives us the determination “With our promotional work, we are to continue to work hard and make this continuously trying to promote and

22 | INSIDE TRACK RUNNING FOR ALL

GÖTEBORGSVARVET GETS EVERYONE ACTIVE The organisers have collaborated with local running The Göteborgsvarvet – or the Gothenburg Half associations across the country to help runners Marathon – attracted a modest field of 1800 runners prepare for this year’s race. In the build-up to race day when it was staged for the first time in 1980 but in on 20 May, the Göteborgsvarvet arranged 10km races the four decades which have followed the race has in 21 different cities across Sweden. developed into an institution. Now this popular race In recent years, the organisers have worked closely has been awarded a five-star certification rating by with local schools in underprivileged areas of the city Running for All. and beyond to make physical activity more accessible Nowadays more than 45,000 runners take part and promote the many benefits of running. The each year, making the Göteborgsvarvet Europe’s participants are then invited to take part in the Lilla biggest road race. Globally it ranks second only to the Varvet, the adjoining children’s race, which traditionally New York Marathon and the impact of the race is felt takes place the day after the half marathon. countrywide extending much futher than just race day “Right now, we offer children free running classes at itself. five different schools in Gothenburg and one school in “We offer free running classes in 38 different Finspång,” said Ms. Siwerz. “The children are between locations around Sweden – a total of 600 classes take eight and 13 years old and at the end of the spring we place each year. The classes are free for anyone who organise a trip for the participants who can come to wants to participate, even if they aren’t registered for Slottsskogen and run our race Lilla Varvet for free.” the Göteborgsvarvet,” explained Rebecka Siwerz, who Next year’s edition of the Göteborgsvarvet takes is part of the event’s organising team. place on 19 May.

Over 45,000 runners take part in Europe's biggest road race

INSIDE TRACK | 23 Join the leading figures in the European running UNIQUE BUSINESS PLATFORM industry at this ground-breaking new conference. Open to race organisers, suppliers to the industry, Organisers are inviting those who have spotted a federation representatives and members of the gap in the running market to pitch their idea at the media this will be a unique opportunity to: Running Business Conference. • Share commercial strategies to reach more Whether your product is aimed at runners or runners and boost participation race organisers, the European Running Business • Discover digital solutions to enhance race Conference will be an invaluable opportunity for experience, improve safety, boost marketing and entrepreneurs and innovators to make contacts drive loyalty and bring your ideas to the attention of a global • Gain best practice from top minds in the industry audience. • Network with race directors, running experts, IAAF PLUS the opportunity to view behind the scenes and European Athletics’ representatives at one of the world’s greatest marathons as the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon starts just as the With two full days of meetings, conference plenary conference ends. and panel sessions, idea labs, networking dinners Individual registration starts from €245. Contact and awards, the European Running Business [email protected] to reserve your Conference is a must-attend event for all those who place or call +41 79 537 1139 and download the event are serious about the commercial side of running. app at http://live.sporthive.com/event/2531/app

OFFICIAL DESIGNATION OFFICIAL DESIGNATION

COMMISSIONS

COMMISSIONS CONTINUE WORK IN LAUSANNE The Event and Competition Commission and the Member Federation Development Commission both met at the new House of European Athletics.

The Event and Competition Commission including a video recording system to be expansion of the running strategy with and the Member Federation Development used at major European Athletics events. the organisation of the Running Business Commission each held their regular Finally, they planned a survey among Conference in October in Frankfurt as meetings in Lausanne at the start of April. stakeholders to be conducted during the well as the assessment of the Road Races The Commissions met at the new House European Athletics Championships in Certification System. of European Athletics, with European Berlin on progression through qualifying Elsewhere, it was agreed that European Athletics President Svein Arne Hansen in rounds in track events up to 400m. Athletics Athletes Commission Chair attendance. The Member Federation Development Periklís Iakovákis will join the European Event and Competition Chairman Commission was chaired by Jean Gracia Athletics Council as an ex-officio Toralf Nilsson opened their meeting with and reviewed European Athletics' member. The 2006 European Athletics an update on various topics including programme of activities to support Championships 400m hurdles champion the implementation of a new Ranking members. Top of the agenda was the new was elected to the Athletes Commission in System for athletes and the ongoing Member Federation Support System which 2014 and will hold his post until the next European Records review. The group will open up the possibility for European elections which will be held during the worked through an extensive agenda Athletics to provide more direct help to 2018 European Athletics Championships. which covered recommendations to the Federations. Central to the scheme is a The appointment is an important one Council on the calendar and changes to series of project-based grants, education not only as it gives athletes a strong voice competition regulations. and information sharing linked to in the Council’s decision making process The Commission oversees a training European Athletics’ strategy. but also because President Hansen will programme for Technical Officials and The Commission also made provision be proposing a change to the Constitution agreed the concept for a Level II course for the smallest Federations to work at the next European Athletics Congress as well as changes to the dates of the with stronger neighbours and other in Vilnius in October. The amendment Technical Delegate Seminar. Members Federations on knowledge transfer would see the Athletes Commission Chair agreed a standard, based on best practice, with financial help from European become a full voting member of the for new technologies and equipment Athletics. Finally, the group reviewed the European Athletics Council.

INSIDE TRACK | 25 COACHING SUMMIT SERIES

COACHING AT THE TOP LEVEL European Athletics’ latest Coaching Summit Series will feature some of the best in the world.

European Athletics launched its Malcolm Arnold, and Ans Botha, coach to participants from 25 countries. Coaching Summit Series in 2008 and world and Olympic 400m champion Wayde This year, the European Throwing the initiative is still going strong nearly a van Niekerk. For more information, contact Conference will be held in Loughborough, decade later with four summits scheduled Jamie Bowie at [email protected]. Great Britain on 10-12 November. Past for the autumn. All are set to feature Two weeks later, the European speakers have included all-time throwing keynote presentations from world- Horizontal Jumps and Hurdles Symposium greats such as Yuriy Sedykh, Gerd renowned coaches and top-level athletes. takes place at the Lugnet Sport Centre in Kanter and Virgilijus Alekna. For more The programme of each summit is Falun, Sweden from 10-12 November. information, contact David Parker at made up of presentations, practical Speakers at past editions have included [email protected]. demonstrations, small group workshops Toni Minichello, the long-time coach to the The last in the series is the Pajulahti and round table discussions. They also recently retired Jessica Ennis-Hill and Oscar Endurance Conference which takes in the provide opportunities for participants to Gidewell, who coached Sweden’s Michel Pajulahti Olympic Training Center in Lahti, make contacts, share ideas and discuss all Torneus to the European indoor long jump Finland from 24-26 November. aspects of their event with experts from title in 2015. For more information, contact Participants from 16 countries were in around the globe. Anders Ryden at [email protected]. attendance at the last edition two years The first summit will be the International One of last year's highlights was the ago and among the highlights was a Festival of Athletics Coaching in Formia, World Javelin Conference in Kuortane, presentation from Jeronimo Bravo, coach Italy at the CONI Olympic Training Centre Finland which included a lecture and to world half marathon record holder from 27-29 October. a demonstration from coach Harro Zersenay Tadese. For more information, Last year’s programme featured lectures Schwuchow and his star pupil Thomas contact Nikke Vilmi at from the doyen of hurdles coaching, Röhler to an audience made up of 100 [email protected].

26 | INSIDE TRACK PRESIDENTIAL NEWS

PRESIDENT’S TRAVELS

1. January, Jerusalem meeting with the City Mayor Nir Barkat, during a retreat in Israel 1 2

2. January, London after giving the keynote addresss at the SIGA Sport Integrity Forum

3. February, Geneva chairing the 2018 European Championships Board meeting

4. February, with CEO Christian Milz and members of the Turkish Athletics Federation to open their new Library

5. March, Tullamore, as guest of honour at the Athletics Ireland Emerald Crystal Star Awards

6. March, Belgrade’s Kombank Arena for the 34th European Athletics Indoor Championships

7. March, Vienna with the President of the Austrian Athletics Federation, Sonja Spendelhofer and 84 participants at the 3 European Athletics High Performance Conference 5 6 8. April, Budapest with Peter Sarfalvi, Deputy Secretary of State for Sports and Marton Gyulai, CEO of Hungarian Athletics

9. May, Kiev meeting the Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman

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