Clement expects records to stand

FRANK CLEMENT has joined the debate on plans to scrap world records set before 2005, but the retired Glasgow miler predicts that legal challenges will scupper the proposals.

The 1976 Olympic 1500m finalist also suspects that the aim was to “generate publicity” and give the impression that the sport’s governing bodies are “getting tough” in the war against doping.

“World Athletics has to be seen to be acting aggressively in tackling doping,” said Clement. “The problem appears to be growing and the perception is the IAAF is unable to tackle it effectively.

“The move to abolish records prior to 2005 is certainly aggressive, although it does nothing to tackle the doping problem.

“UK athletes such as Colin Jackson, Paula Radcliffe and Jonathan Edwards are understandably aggrieved as they believe they have not done anything wrong.

“They might feel so strongly that they would feel it necessary to take legal action against the EAA or IAAF.

“This has already created a mighty stir, and I suspect this is part of the reason they have suggested it. Partly to generate publicity, partly to create an environment where World Athletics appears to be getting tough, but more importantly to create a plan that will ultimately lead to a ‘drugfree’ sport in the future.

“Once the dust has settled, my hunch is that world records pre2005 will still be standing.”