Athletics: Chiefs ‘right not to send youngsters to India’

Nov 24 2007 by Bob Cypher, South Wales Echo

WELSH Athletics have answered criticism of their decision to not send athletes to the Youth Commonwealth Games in Pune, India, last month, writes Bob Cypher.

Other Welsh organisations sent competitors, but athletics bosses say there were a number of reasons why they declined the invitation.

Spokeswoman Jane Williams, Welsh Athletics’ press officer, said: “The board of Welsh Athletics Ltd decided not to send a team of young athletes to India.

“After considerable discussion and detail, the board concluded that it would not be advisable to send such a team.

“The board was very concerned about the subject and gave the matter great consideration.

“The key reasons are: The timing of the event – October – is out of season for athletics in terms of training and performance.

“The effect on the education of the young athletes was also concerning.

“October is early in the academic year and this would result in young people missing an important schooling period.

“And there was only provision for a small team of four or five athletes with just one official.

“In conclusion the logistical and welfare issues of such a small team gave the board much cause for concern.”