Paula’s Record Changed, What’s your opinion?

By
Pete
– September 21, 2011Posted in: Exercise Features

Paula Radcliffe’s Women’s World Record for the Marathon has been changed! As reported by the BBC, her time of 2:15:25, set in 2003 has been downgraded to a “World’s best” because it was run in a mixed race, as opposed to the new World Record, also by Radcliffe, of 2:17:42 which was set in a female only race.

World Major Marathons (WMM) and the Association of International Marathons (AIMS) called the change “unfair”.

The new rules, partly designed to counter the impact of male pacemakers in helping women to achieve quicker times, mean that Radcliffe’s 2003 marathon mark of two hours fifteen minutes 25 seconds is no longer a women’s world record. It is a world best.

The Englishwoman’s 2005 London time of 2:17:42 is the women’s world record.

A statement from WMM (World Marathon Majors) and AIMS (Assoc. Of International Marathons) said: “We have reviewed the recent congress decision and believe that it does not represent what is required by the sport of road running.”

What’s your opinion of this? Add your comments on the bottom of this post.

About Pete

I am a Personal Trainer working in the Letchworth, Baldock, Hitchin, Stotfold and Biggleswade area who has been running for 4 years. I strongly believe that everyone can run, but many of us don't know how to start. Running Clubs, like any other new experience can be daunting so I am dedicated to making everyone feel welcome, regardless of ability.