WMA not endorsing anyone in IAAF prexy race, but very hopeful

Stan is president of World Masters Athletics.

After posting the news about Sergey Bubka pitching his masters ideas, I wrote to Stan Perkins, president of World Masters Athletics. Stan responded speedily (perhaps because I had gone out on a limb to predict Sergey was promising more money for WMA or a takeover of its recordkeeping role. Both may be a stretch.) Anyhoo, Stan says WMA is pleased to see masters athletics on the IAAF radar. Stan has contacted IAAF prezy hopeful Sebastian Coe for his stands on masters (as have I, via Facebook). I’ll let you know what Lord Coe says. But here’s my quickie Q&A with Stan on the Bubka revelations.

Mainly, I was interested in Stan’s take on Sergey’s comment:

“We will ratify and register world masters’ five-year age-group records and maintain data on other outstanding athletic performances by masters. I believe that IAAF and WMA teamwork will help involve more nations into regional, national and international masters’ competitions.”

Masterstrack.com Does this mean IAAF would take over masters athletics’ recordkeeping?

Stan Perkins: No. At this point in time WMA maintains its own records, taking into account performances based on age from IAAF meets as well as all masters meets. I think Sergey is suggesting that the IAAF will formally acknowledge WMA records as part of the record history of our sport. WMA has always maintained its own records and plans to continue to do so.

Sergey also mentions greater support for WMA? Does this mean money? If so, how much?

He has indicated the current levels of funding will be maintained, and may be increased in future years. There was no further explanation of this comment but it is important to know that WMA can rely on at least the maintenance of current funding levels.

Has WMA endorsed anyone in the IAAF presidency race?

No. Both candidates are considered to be well-credentialed to serve in the post of IAAF president. Both are well known to WMA affiliates through their involvement across the world in athletics, including masters activities.

Does anyone in WMA or on the IAAF Masters Commission have a vote in the IAAF presidential election? If so, who?

No.

What are your reactions to Bubka’s move to support masters?

Sergey Bubka has been a supporter of masters athletics for quite some years, mainly through his connections in Europe. To my knowledge he has always been supportive and at times has used his influence to assist when requested to do so in Europe.

Did Bubka reach out to WMA or the IAAF Masters Commission before making this announcement?

Recently I wrote to both candidates (in my capacity as WMA president) asking them a series of questions in respect of their attitude to masters athletics. Specifically they were asked to indicate whether current arrangements would continue, including funding and the Masters Commission.

I was previously aware that Bubka had expressed his support verbally on a number of occasions, and I had also spoken with both candidates at various times and was comfortable with their support indications. However having this in writing is considered important. Bubka has responded quickly and I understand a letter will be coming from Lord Sebastian Coe in the near future.

Coe has been a longtime active supporter of masters athletics and volunteered on several occasions to take an active role in aspects of masters athletics activities.

Like this post? Dig this site? Please donate. (And here’s why.)