Athletics Australia President David Grace QC extended his congratulations today to Lord Sebastian Coe CH KBE, the newly elected President of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
Elected at the IAAF Congress in Beijing (CHN), Lord Coe brings a rich history of achievement as both an athlete, politician and sports administrator to the challenging role. A fervent supporter of athletics in the Oceania region for many years, he has the full support of Australian athletics in executing his manifesto for change.
“A remarkable athlete, winning two Olympic gold medals, Lord Coe is more recently recognised for his outstanding contribution to the coordination of the London 2012 Olympic Games. His wealth of knowledge in the field of sports governance and administration, acquired through time as an athlete, politician and a businessman, will ensure that athletics globally is in capable hands in years to come,” Grace said.
“Lord Coe’s strong anti-doping stance and continued efforts to ensure a clean and level playing field for all athletes are wholeheartedly supported by Australian athletics. His determination to realise commercial growth is critical for the long-term viability of athletics, as is his desire to modernise the delivery of events to ensure their continued relevance in an ever-changing sports landscape.
“Australian athletics wishes Lord Coe every success in the multifarious and challenging role of IAAF President. We look forward to collaborating with him in the best interest of athletics in Australia, our region of Oceania and across the world.”
Lord Coe succeeds Lamine Diack of Senegal as the IAAF President for a four year term.
The 2015 IAAF World Championships will be held in Beijing (CHN), commencing this Saturday 22 August.
The Australian Flame team for the IAAF World Championships is 45-strong, boasting 42 individual athletes and the women’s 4x400m relay. Three athletes will also compete in exhibition masters events to bring the overall squad size to 48.
The first wave of athletes will arrive in the Chinese capital today, with other to continue their preparation for Beijing 2015 at a team camp in Wakayama (JPN).
At the 2013 IAAF World Championships in Moscow (RUS), Australia won three medals – two silver (Sally Pearson, Kim Mickle) and one bronze (Jared Tallent) – and scored 27 points to place 16th of 203 competing nations.
