Re-run of women's 5,000m T-54 is fair: IPC official
9/9/2008 17:56
An official with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said in
Beijing today that the re-run of women's 5,000m T-54 is in the interest of
fairness and the decision was made because of the seriousness of the crash in
the race which led to six athletes failing to finish the race.
The crash of
athletes' wheelchairs in yesterday's women's 5,000m T-54 race led to six out of
11 runners unable to finish the race and three athletes injured.
Canada's
Diane Roy finished first, followed by Britain's Shelly Woods and the United
States' Amanda Mcgrory
The result of the event was later withdrawn and the
IPC's Jury of Appeal ordered a re-run of the race to be held on Sept.
12.
Switzerland's Hunkeler Edith was disqualified. Awarded athletes were
asked to return their medals.
Chris Cohen, chairperson of the IPC Athletics,
said at a press conference in the Main Press Center that "it is not unique, but
unusual for any race in athletics to restage," adding the decision was made by
taking account of the seriousness of the crash.
Three countries, Australia,
the United States and Switzerland, lodged appeals for the race.
Cohen said
Australia lodged appeal citing its athlete was obstructed unfairly by another
athlete. The US appeal said their athletes were impeded by a Canadian athlete
during the race. And the third appeal said that its athlete was affected by the
officials crossing the track to try to ensure the safety of the injured
athletes.
Cohen said he had personally talked with Diane Roy and Shelly
Woods. "Diane was disappointed but understanding. Shelly was less experienced
and did not take in quite well this is the case and I understand how upset she
would be in that situation."
"But from my point of view, we have to make sure
that the process is followed through correctly," he said.
Xinhua
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