OUR BRON IN BID TO CLAIM ATHENS GOLD
IT’S been more than a decadedec d ini theh making. But Australia has moved a step closer to claiming its first ever Olympics long jump gold medal, 13 years after the drug- tainted event was held.
Athletics Australia revealed yesterday it would support former star Bronwyn Thompson, who finished behind three Russian drug cheats at the 2004 Athens Olympics and take the fight up to the sport’s governing body, the IAAF.
Thompson launched a bid to be awarded her gold medal earlier this year and yesterday, Athletics Australia confirmed it would support Thompson at the highest level.
The 39- year- old had called on the national federation to support her push for the IAAF to launch an immediate investigation into the long jump medals from Athens.
Thompson, a Brisbane physiotherapist, finished fourth in Athens behind three Russian athletes who all tested positive for performance enhancing drug offences within the four- year post- Games period.
Athletics Australia’s interim CEO Michael Hall confirmed yesterday they were taking up Thompson’s plight.
“Bronwyn’s request for an inquiry into the outcome of the women’s long jump final at Athens 2004 is one Athletics Australia wholeheartedly supports,” Michael Hall, Athletics Australia Interim CEO, said.
“At a recent board meeting, it was unanimously agreed that we would approach the IAAF to determine what action, if any, can be taken to launch an investigation and we will provide an update on the outcomes of this endeavour as more information comes to hand.
“Athletics Australia believe that Bronwyn has a claim for the gold medal, but to ensure a resolution for this injustice we must secure the support of the governing body for the sport.
“It is our intention to make every effort to do so. Discussions were also held with the Indian Athletics Federation this month, to work in cooperation.
“A level playing field for all athletes, protecting clean athletes from the scourge of doping, is critical.”
It is understood Athletics Australia spoke with their international counterparts at the recent World Athletics Championships in London.
Great Britain’s Jade Johnson and Anju Bobby-George from India, have also called on their national federations and the IAAF to reallocate the 2004 Olympic long jump medals.