Sunday, 28 August 2011
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
ECHO ANNOUNCES TAKE OVER DEAL
The lufbra echo has been sold to an undisclosed party for a "not inconsiderate sum of money". The move from the ever anonymous Chief Executive brings to an end over a year of journalism that has rocked the world of athletics to its core. There are too many highlights to mention in one summary, but viewers are encouraged to use our prestigious 'Archive' section to re-live the laughter, the tears, the shocks, the spills and the emotion that characterised the past sixteen months.
To our treasured readership: this artwork, this wizardry would not have been the same without the tens of thousands of you that have enjoyed it with us. Some of you have laughed along, others have sulked, still others have threatened - but most importantly you all read. There are some that have compared this little site to the greats: Chekhov, Beckett, Pinter, Shakespeare - all kind comparisons. But in truth, it was always about the word for us; the beauty, the simplicity.
As we count our millions from the buy out - we wish you well. Life will never be the same with us gone, but in little steps, we hope that the pain and sense of loss that you all feel now will numb. So smile and concede that though your hearts ache for our departure, they are a million times richer for having been able to be our fans. You'll always have the memories.
To our treasured readership: this artwork, this wizardry would not have been the same without the tens of thousands of you that have enjoyed it with us. Some of you have laughed along, others have sulked, still others have threatened - but most importantly you all read. There are some that have compared this little site to the greats: Chekhov, Beckett, Pinter, Shakespeare - all kind comparisons. But in truth, it was always about the word for us; the beauty, the simplicity.
As we count our millions from the buy out - we wish you well. Life will never be the same with us gone, but in little steps, we hope that the pain and sense of loss that you all feel now will numb. So smile and concede that though your hearts ache for our departure, they are a million times richer for having been able to be our fans. You'll always have the memories.
Friday, 24 June 2011
Monday, 20 June 2011
USAIN BOLT EYES BRITISH SWITCH
Usain Bolt's sister's friend's mother's hairdresser's father was born and raised in Essex, opening up the possibility of the triple Olympic Champion competing for Great Britain at next year's London Games. It is understood that Bolt is "hugely excited" at the potential switch and fourteen members of UKA staff are "working flat out" to make it happen. This news comes after the likes of Tiffany Ofili-Porter and Shara Proctor conveniently discovered long lost relatives from the British Isles. 'Operation Get Bolt' as it has become know at Athletics House is a division of the 'Foreign Athlete Recruitment Team' (Codename FART) in the organisation.
Bolt has refused to comment on the story publicly, but an insider told the echo that the star has already switched from chicken nuggets and chips to fish and chips as a pre-race meal. "It was like he was born to be British, which of course technically speaking he is" enthused the source. Preparations were said to have suffered a set-back last week when Bolt was seen in "deep conversation" with the Pope sparking rumours that he was about to switch to becoming Italian. "We sent a memo reassuring him that Catholics were more than welcome on these shores" said a UKA worker "and I have it good authority that Mr Bolt doesn't much care for spaghetti".
Bolt has refused to comment on the story publicly, but an insider told the echo that the star has already switched from chicken nuggets and chips to fish and chips as a pre-race meal. "It was like he was born to be British, which of course technically speaking he is" enthused the source. Preparations were said to have suffered a set-back last week when Bolt was seen in "deep conversation" with the Pope sparking rumours that he was about to switch to becoming Italian. "We sent a memo reassuring him that Catholics were more than welcome on these shores" said a UKA worker "and I have it good authority that Mr Bolt doesn't much care for spaghetti".
Sunday, 19 June 2011
TWITTERING TWITS
What does Charles Van Commonee - the man charged with delivering excellence at next year's Olympics - think of Twitter? "It's for attention seekers and clowns" the UKA supremo opined to the BBC yesterday afternoon. Van Commonee, who has seemingly forgotten that athletics isn't actually a team sport, was most upset when Phillips Idowu (World Triple Jump Champion and major prospect for Olympic Gold) supposedly announced to the social networking site that he was not to compete at this weekend's European Team Championships.
"These things are done personally, there are certain channels you have to follow" CVC gravely told the camera "I expect somebody with such a profile [Idowu] to follow these procedures". Somewhat embarrassingly for CVC, it seems that Idowu did follow these procedures and only told his Twitter following after emailing the UKA hierarchy. Whoops! It would be even more humiliating for the organisation hell bent on success next year if, say, they had dismissed a world-renowned sprint coach at the drop of a hat for not quite toeing the party line. Although that would never happen as everyone is expected to follow "certain channels" aren't they?
The Dutchman does have a point about Twitter users being attention seekers and clowns though. Just look at some of these Tweets: "In the words of ABBA 'The winner takes it all' - and that's exactly what the men's 4x100m relay just did in a Championship record time!" and "Did you know, this very stadium in Stockholm hosted the 1912 Olympic Games, which saw electric timing introduced for athletics? You do now!". This same user even found the time to re-tweet two of Mr Idowu's messages (unrelated to scandal) and ponder how a queue for toast may effect James Shane's race chances. This couldn't be a salaried member of UKA staff (known within the camp as Mr Twitter) who tweets under the user name 'UKA_athletics' could it?
"These things are done personally, there are certain channels you have to follow" CVC gravely told the camera "I expect somebody with such a profile [Idowu] to follow these procedures". Somewhat embarrassingly for CVC, it seems that Idowu did follow these procedures and only told his Twitter following after emailing the UKA hierarchy. Whoops! It would be even more humiliating for the organisation hell bent on success next year if, say, they had dismissed a world-renowned sprint coach at the drop of a hat for not quite toeing the party line. Although that would never happen as everyone is expected to follow "certain channels" aren't they?
The Dutchman does have a point about Twitter users being attention seekers and clowns though. Just look at some of these Tweets: "In the words of ABBA 'The winner takes it all' - and that's exactly what the men's 4x100m relay just did in a Championship record time!" and "Did you know, this very stadium in Stockholm hosted the 1912 Olympic Games, which saw electric timing introduced for athletics? You do now!". This same user even found the time to re-tweet two of Mr Idowu's messages (unrelated to scandal) and ponder how a queue for toast may effect James Shane's race chances. This couldn't be a salaried member of UKA staff (known within the camp as Mr Twitter) who tweets under the user name 'UKA_athletics' could it?
Saturday, 18 June 2011
IDOWU ANGERED BY TWITTER BAN
Phillips Idowu has revealed that Charles Van Commonee has confiscated his mobile telephone and personal computer "for the rest of the season" and banned the Triple Jump star from "going near a computer". Van Commonee - who branded Idowu a "clown" on the BBC - is said to be furious that the Belgrave Harrier used Twitter to withdraw from this weekend's European Team Championships.
"It's a total joke" thundered Idowu from a phone box "who the hell does he think he is? I'm the World Champion and yet I can't be trusted with a mobile phone. Ridiculous." The triple jump ace added that it "was none of Van Commonee's business" what he did online. "Where exactly is Charles' Gold medal?" pondered Idowu "when he wants some fashion advice he should call me."
Idowu went on to say that the ban was having a "negative impact" on his performance because he was unable to call the AA when his new car broke down last week. "I tried to fashion a device with a paper cup and a bit of string, but it didn't work" said Idowu "in the rain, the cup just disintegrated".
Van Commonee has defended his decision, but faces serious problems within the Team GB camp after Helen Clitheroe was caught on Facebook chat after lights out yesterday evening and Dwain Chambers was found to be "following" the out of favour Idowu on Twitter. Meanwhile, a row has erupted within the BBC after Denise Lewis 'unfriended' Colin Jackson in a row thought to be over shoes and Jonathan Edwards revealed that he didn't even know what Twitter was.
"It's a total joke" thundered Idowu from a phone box "who the hell does he think he is? I'm the World Champion and yet I can't be trusted with a mobile phone. Ridiculous." The triple jump ace added that it "was none of Van Commonee's business" what he did online. "Where exactly is Charles' Gold medal?" pondered Idowu "when he wants some fashion advice he should call me."
Idowu went on to say that the ban was having a "negative impact" on his performance because he was unable to call the AA when his new car broke down last week. "I tried to fashion a device with a paper cup and a bit of string, but it didn't work" said Idowu "in the rain, the cup just disintegrated".
Van Commonee has defended his decision, but faces serious problems within the Team GB camp after Helen Clitheroe was caught on Facebook chat after lights out yesterday evening and Dwain Chambers was found to be "following" the out of favour Idowu on Twitter. Meanwhile, a row has erupted within the BBC after Denise Lewis 'unfriended' Colin Jackson in a row thought to be over shoes and Jonathan Edwards revealed that he didn't even know what Twitter was.
Wednesday, 15 June 2011
FARAH ANGERED BY HONOURS SNUB
Mo Farah has criticised the Queen for failing to include him in her Birthday honours list. "Absolutely insulting" thundered Farah from a Nike press event "what have I got to do to get on that bloody list? It's a total joke." This news comes just a matter of weeks after Farah sent a threatening letter to Prince William for not inviting him to his wedding. "That isn't something I talk about" said Farah "it was all fine when he [Prince William] pitched up unannounced at my stag, but all of a sudden there wasn't space for me in the Abbey".
Farah's anger was compounded when he discovered that Jessica Ennis had been appointed an MBE. "It just confirms that the BBC decide everything doesn't it? She is half the athlete I am, but because she looks alright she gets attention and awards. It's very poor." The European 10,000m Champion added that he would "never use British Pounds again" after this latest bust up and when in the UK would pay for everything with his American Express card. "I don't want to look at that woman [the Queen] I am that upset". Whether or not he will sing the National Anthem if he wins an Olympic title is yet to be decided.
Buckingham Palace refused to comment on the story this evening, but did confirm that the Queen had received an irate phone call from Farah on her personal line. "Her Majesty is not prepared to release statements about her private life" said a spokesman "this matter has now been dealt with."
Farah's anger was compounded when he discovered that Jessica Ennis had been appointed an MBE. "It just confirms that the BBC decide everything doesn't it? She is half the athlete I am, but because she looks alright she gets attention and awards. It's very poor." The European 10,000m Champion added that he would "never use British Pounds again" after this latest bust up and when in the UK would pay for everything with his American Express card. "I don't want to look at that woman [the Queen] I am that upset". Whether or not he will sing the National Anthem if he wins an Olympic title is yet to be decided.
Buckingham Palace refused to comment on the story this evening, but did confirm that the Queen had received an irate phone call from Farah on her personal line. "Her Majesty is not prepared to release statements about her private life" said a spokesman "this matter has now been dealt with."
Sunday, 12 June 2011
DONALDSON SIGNS CONTRACT EXTENSION
Alasdair Donaldson (who does not have time to read this blog) has signed a new contract with Loughborough and will remain at the club for at least the next twelve months, the lufbra echo understands. The news comes as a major victory for George Gandy's PA as insiders have told of "massive concessions" made by the Loughborough set up.
A source close to the negotiation team told the echo that Alasdair was "now to have an assistant to take charge of milk". It is hoped that this will free Donaldson up to spend more time trialling and selecting teas as well as focusing on perfecting a "comprehensive system for the storage and dispensing of paper clips".
Donaldson's decision to stay put will come as a surprise to many as he was linked to several "leading institutions" including the Bolton Institute of Higher Education who were prepared to offer him "complete control" of the kettle. A source close to Donaldson said that Loughborough was "the clear choice" and that the Scot was "very happy" in the East Midlands.
Just a couple of months ago, Donaldson's future couldn't have been more uncertain after his April Fools joke went disastrously wrong and he was quizzed by UKA chiefs over the cash for emails scandal. However, Loughborough sources have told the echo that these incidents are "now in the past" and that Donaldson was the "man for the moment".
A source close to the negotiation team told the echo that Alasdair was "now to have an assistant to take charge of milk". It is hoped that this will free Donaldson up to spend more time trialling and selecting teas as well as focusing on perfecting a "comprehensive system for the storage and dispensing of paper clips".
Donaldson's decision to stay put will come as a surprise to many as he was linked to several "leading institutions" including the Bolton Institute of Higher Education who were prepared to offer him "complete control" of the kettle. A source close to Donaldson said that Loughborough was "the clear choice" and that the Scot was "very happy" in the East Midlands.
Just a couple of months ago, Donaldson's future couldn't have been more uncertain after his April Fools joke went disastrously wrong and he was quizzed by UKA chiefs over the cash for emails scandal. However, Loughborough sources have told the echo that these incidents are "now in the past" and that Donaldson was the "man for the moment".
Tuesday, 7 June 2011
BMC CHIEF SHOULD QUIT SAYS CAMERON
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| 'BETTER ORGANISED RIOTS': PM Cameron blasts BMC set up |
"It has been a total disaster" thundered Cameron from Downing Street today "how can classy athletes like Joe MacDonald and Stephen Emery have their entries deferred whilst others sail into the event without a second look? It is humiliating for those involved and it is high time that the BMC took this sort of foul up more seriously". The firm words from the PM come just three months after he pledged to clear up the "horrendous state of athletics under the old Government". Fitzgerald is likely to be summoned to Downing Street before the week is out to explain yet another humiliation for the supposed "premier middle distance club" in the country.
Last week, Alasdair Donaldson (who doesn't have time to read this blog) used his annual press conference heap scorn on BMC for "fundamentally failing athletics". "When I was in school" blasted the Scot "BMC were the be all and end all. They are a bit of a joke now". It is understood that George Gandy's PA has not ruled out boycotting the event by "refusing to make the tea" for the officials - who last year failed to spot several athletes crossing the line.
Meanwhile, Pete Matthews has announced that he will not be taking part in the event in order to spend more time with his GB International kit (Mountain Running) and Mo Farah has been told that he has "missed the deadline" and so the Euopean 10,000m record holder has been placed on a waiting list for a lane in the 'H' 800m race. It is also thought the BMC were forced to reject applications from Tariku Bekele on the grounds that he wasn't as good as his brother and Ryan Hall because "no one really liked him". Andy Baddeley is due to take part despite concerns on his part that other competitors were "a bit thick".
Monday, 30 May 2011
RADCLIFFE 'EMBARRASSED' BY LONDON SLUMP
Paula Radcliffe blamed "everything but myself" as she tearfully explained one of the "most humiliating performances" of her career. The World Marathon record holder said that she was "disgusted" at being beaten by "nobody Jo Pavey" and conceded that she "had never heard of" Gemma Steele who pipped her to second place. The multi-millionaire sobbed into BBC microphones as she explained how injury continued to hamper her performances, but had firm words too for race winner Jo Pavey.
"I thought she [Pavey] showed a lack of class at the start" said Radcliffe "she told me that the swoosh on her Nike kit was bigger than mine because Nike preferred her to me. It's really disappointing when someone treats you like that, very poor." Radcliffe was also left frustrated when her fans did not seem to recognise her. So long has it been since she last ran a race in anger, the former World Champion was accosted at the start by hundreds of Harry Potter fans who had confused her with star actor, Daniel Radcliffe. The excitable group of teenage girls were none too happy when they realised that the Radcliffe on show was not their bespectacled hero, but "some blonde woman who kept waving at us".
Radcliffe refused to rule out the possibility of competing at "the next three Olympics" but did admit that she "had lots of work to do". "Clearly 250 miles a week isn't enough, because I always seem to be injured on that" sobbed the mother of two "I am going to double it and that should help. I just hope that something crazy doesn't happen that will force me to blame everything else for my world caving in again." Radcliffe will be 38 in December.
"I thought she [Pavey] showed a lack of class at the start" said Radcliffe "she told me that the swoosh on her Nike kit was bigger than mine because Nike preferred her to me. It's really disappointing when someone treats you like that, very poor." Radcliffe was also left frustrated when her fans did not seem to recognise her. So long has it been since she last ran a race in anger, the former World Champion was accosted at the start by hundreds of Harry Potter fans who had confused her with star actor, Daniel Radcliffe. The excitable group of teenage girls were none too happy when they realised that the Radcliffe on show was not their bespectacled hero, but "some blonde woman who kept waving at us".
Radcliffe refused to rule out the possibility of competing at "the next three Olympics" but did admit that she "had lots of work to do". "Clearly 250 miles a week isn't enough, because I always seem to be injured on that" sobbed the mother of two "I am going to double it and that should help. I just hope that something crazy doesn't happen that will force me to blame everything else for my world caving in again." Radcliffe will be 38 in December.
Wednesday, 25 May 2011
EMERY DEMANDS FACEBOOK GROUP REMOVAL
Stephen Emery has threatened to have Facebook "taken off the internet" after he discovered a derisory group about him. The social networking page has been in existence since last summer and was created by some disgruntled Rugby & Northampton fans after the 5k man made a big money switch to Coventry Godiva. Speaking exclusively to the echo the group's founder described the "immense hurt" that Emery's snub had caused his boyhood team. "We were nearly relegated [from Birmingham League Division 1] weren't we? I always thought that when Stephen wore that vest saying 'I'M RUGBY TILL I DIE' he would always be with us. I cried myself to sleep the night he left".
Emery famously "nearly veered off the road in horror" when his agent telephoned through Rugby's contract renewal offer. Claiming to be "better than that" the then largely unknown athlete deserted his club-mates overnight for cross region rivals, Coventry. He has since shot to fame and commanded a salary rumoured to run into the tens of millions as well as attracting interest from big clubs such as Newham and Belgrave. Emery has not been without controversy since the switch and boss David Dix was forced to leave him out of the squad for the National 12 Stage this April.
The Loughborough based ace refused to answer questions about the incident at his weekly press call this evening, but did threaten to ban a journalist from this Friday's pre-BMC conference after he asked him "how important Facebook was" in his preparation. A source close to Emery said that the star was "absolutely fuming" and had dismissed two close aides after they didn't pick it up sooner. "Nineteen people have been having a laugh at his expense" said the insider "that is outrageous. We have a meeting booked with Mark Zuckerberg [Facebook's founder] first thing in the morning to discuss compensation".
The Facebook group in question can be found here.
Emery famously "nearly veered off the road in horror" when his agent telephoned through Rugby's contract renewal offer. Claiming to be "better than that" the then largely unknown athlete deserted his club-mates overnight for cross region rivals, Coventry. He has since shot to fame and commanded a salary rumoured to run into the tens of millions as well as attracting interest from big clubs such as Newham and Belgrave. Emery has not been without controversy since the switch and boss David Dix was forced to leave him out of the squad for the National 12 Stage this April.
The Loughborough based ace refused to answer questions about the incident at his weekly press call this evening, but did threaten to ban a journalist from this Friday's pre-BMC conference after he asked him "how important Facebook was" in his preparation. A source close to Emery said that the star was "absolutely fuming" and had dismissed two close aides after they didn't pick it up sooner. "Nineteen people have been having a laugh at his expense" said the insider "that is outrageous. We have a meeting booked with Mark Zuckerberg [Facebook's founder] first thing in the morning to discuss compensation".
The Facebook group in question can be found here.
Monday, 23 May 2011
MP NAMES SEAWARD IN PRIVACY ROW
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| CATCH ME IF YOU CAN: Details surrounding Seaward's private life still cannot be revealed |
Mr Eady said that it was "not in the public interest" for the echo to engage in "shameless gossip" about an otherwise very private individual. "Person Z has every right to expect a certain degree of privacy even though he has chosen a very public domain in which to conduct his professional life" said the Judge "it is beyond the realms of my understanding to know why the public would be interested in unsubstantiated gossip". It was concluded that the 98,000 people who mentioned his name on Twitter over the past week were "in contempt of court" and could technically be sent to prison for two years.
Seaward's solicitors have threatened to "put the echo out of business" if we publish "anything about the completely personal and private circumstances". However, the echo can confirm that the injunction has nothing to do with Seaward's drunken behaviour at the Whittle wedding back in December, nor his shameful conduct at Loughborough's New Year party in January. The rumours on Twitter suggesting that the former Irish International was receiving treatment for a coffee addiction are also untrue.
Seaward was flanked by three security guards at this weekend's Loughborough International and his official website has been suspended since the early hours of this morning. It is understood that the star plans to take refuge in his home country just as soon as Barrack Obama (Seaward is a Republican) has left it. His official spokesman said that he "had and would never have any comment to make on the matter".
Saturday, 21 May 2011
TWITTER RUMOUR UNTRUE SAYS DONALDSON
Alasdair Donaldson has been forced to deny speculation on social networking site Twitter that he had taken out an injunction preventing the media from revealing details about his private life. The tea and coffee man - who does not have time to read this blog - rejected accusations that he had conducted a seven month affair with a kettle. "I have never and would never do such a thing" thundered George Gandy's PA "I am perfectly happy with my tea pot and so would never be drawn into betraying that". The Twitter user - who attracted over 25,000 followers in just six hours - said in a separate tweet that Donaldson had played "kinky games" with the kettle including "filling it up with milk" and "boiling it with no liquid inside".
Loughborough was left reeling from other salacious rumours from the mystery correspondent. One tweet said: "A Lufbra [sic] sports scholar did not spend the last six weeks out on the town and actually did some training". Another claimed to have evidence that Stephen Emery was "drinking supplement drinks straight from the fridge" whilst one more accused Pete Matthews of "having a sound dress sense". A spokesman for the University sports programme "wholeheartedly denied" the "malicious gossip" that was being spread. Stopping short of naming a suspect, the source confirmed that they believed the tweets had "come from the West Midlands".
The revelations could not have come at a worse time for Loughborough as the East Midlands town gears up for the biggest event of the year tomorrow - the Loughborough International. "Everything goes ahead as planned" an insider told the echo "but we have cancelled all press conferences".
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
EDWARDS COY ON TORCH BEARER ROLE
Jonathan Edwards has said that he would be "honoured" to light the Olympic torch at next year's London Olympics. The announcement comes just days after Dame Kelly Holmes launched her own bid to become the flame bearer under the strapline DK to Shoot Up. Holmes, who says that she is "the clear choice", told her On Camp With Kelly group that they must "forget about" their summer seasons and spend their time "hitting Facebook, Twitter and everything else" to get the bid going. Holmes is understood to count Edwards amongst her key rivals.
"I'm not saying that I'm putting myself forward" Edwards told Radio Five Live "but it would be a real honour. I know that Seb [His Lordship, Sebastian Newbold Coe] and I go way back and it would be nice to think that loyalty is repaid - not that I'm interested". The Triple Jump World Record holder - whom the echo revealed to be a twerp last year - dismissed a suggestion that fellow BBC commentator Steve Cram could be in with a shout: "it's a real shame Steve never managed to get that Olympic Gold. I guess that that is a pre-requisite".
Meanwhile, the Office of His Lordship have confirmed that they have received "a number of gifts" for the Baron in recent weeks. It is understood that Brendan Foster sent in a "selection of his favourite cakes", David Beckham provided a case of fine wine, whilst Tom Daly (the diver) sent in his favourite cuddly toy. Kelly Sotherton is believed to have emailed a video file marked "for the Lord's eyes only" as her pitch for glory.
"These bribes won't make a difference" said the Lord's Deputy Director of Being Like An Everyday Guy (North West Region) "the BBC have already stipulated that the Opening Ceremony must feature Jessica Ennis in every shot, so our hands are tied on this one. We did however really enjoy eating the chocolates that Paula Radcliffe sent in".
"I'm not saying that I'm putting myself forward" Edwards told Radio Five Live "but it would be a real honour. I know that Seb [His Lordship, Sebastian Newbold Coe] and I go way back and it would be nice to think that loyalty is repaid - not that I'm interested". The Triple Jump World Record holder - whom the echo revealed to be a twerp last year - dismissed a suggestion that fellow BBC commentator Steve Cram could be in with a shout: "it's a real shame Steve never managed to get that Olympic Gold. I guess that that is a pre-requisite".
Meanwhile, the Office of His Lordship have confirmed that they have received "a number of gifts" for the Baron in recent weeks. It is understood that Brendan Foster sent in a "selection of his favourite cakes", David Beckham provided a case of fine wine, whilst Tom Daly (the diver) sent in his favourite cuddly toy. Kelly Sotherton is believed to have emailed a video file marked "for the Lord's eyes only" as her pitch for glory.
"These bribes won't make a difference" said the Lord's Deputy Director of Being Like An Everyday Guy (North West Region) "the BBC have already stipulated that the Opening Ceremony must feature Jessica Ennis in every shot, so our hands are tied on this one. We did however really enjoy eating the chocolates that Paula Radcliffe sent in".
Sunday, 15 May 2011
PETE MATTHEWS: THE SEARCH FOR REDEMPTION
The Sunday Interview: Pete Matthews
Branded a 'national joke' by his peers, lambasted by his coaches and ignored by selectors. The Blackburn Harrier talks exclusively to the echo about his life and future. Is it really easy to break 15 minutes for 5,000m? Are PBs really irrelevant? And crucially, is he really on his way out of Loughborough?
"Pete Matthews is a difficult man to ignore" George Gandy once pondered "but it is well worth the effort if you try". And so who was this man of whom so many people speak so lowly? There is no question that he is the most famous athlete in the country never to have broken 4 minutes for 1500m and the former GB International (Mountain Running) is not ashamed of it. "When I was a lad" said the red head "I was taught that it didn't matter what people said about you, just as long as they were talking about you."
This is certainly the case. When displaced LSAC skipper Ben Snowball asked listeners to his radio show to text in their favourite joke, 99% of the replies featured Matthews' name in some form. "It's obvious isn't it?" said Matthews tucking into a third slice of cake "people fear me or are jealous of me." Snowball and Matthews have a difficult history after the disgraced AAAs fraudster failed to finish the BUCS A race just days before recording a personal best for 5k. "I was angry with Ben about that" said Matthews of the echo interview Snowball gave "I raced BUCS on the agreement that it was better for me to be injured than to finish low down. I never went back on that".
So what does the summer hold? "PBs are irrelevant" said Matthews ordering a doughnut "for me it's about how many races you win. I have achieved far more in the sport than some guys who are running low 3:40s for 1500m". Matthews was coy on what he thought he could achieve, but refused to rule out qualifying for the AAAs U23 Championships as of right this year rather than fictionalising his PB. It is thought that he may even attempt to break 4 minutes for 1500m.
Finally, the big question: where next? "I can't say for sure" smiled Matthews looking up from his hot chocolate "I know George doesn't want me here [in Loughborough] and so who knows - maybe I'll stick it out".
Branded a 'national joke' by his peers, lambasted by his coaches and ignored by selectors. The Blackburn Harrier talks exclusively to the echo about his life and future. Is it really easy to break 15 minutes for 5,000m? Are PBs really irrelevant? And crucially, is he really on his way out of Loughborough?
"Pete Matthews is a difficult man to ignore" George Gandy once pondered "but it is well worth the effort if you try". And so who was this man of whom so many people speak so lowly? There is no question that he is the most famous athlete in the country never to have broken 4 minutes for 1500m and the former GB International (Mountain Running) is not ashamed of it. "When I was a lad" said the red head "I was taught that it didn't matter what people said about you, just as long as they were talking about you."
This is certainly the case. When displaced LSAC skipper Ben Snowball asked listeners to his radio show to text in their favourite joke, 99% of the replies featured Matthews' name in some form. "It's obvious isn't it?" said Matthews tucking into a third slice of cake "people fear me or are jealous of me." Snowball and Matthews have a difficult history after the disgraced AAAs fraudster failed to finish the BUCS A race just days before recording a personal best for 5k. "I was angry with Ben about that" said Matthews of the echo interview Snowball gave "I raced BUCS on the agreement that it was better for me to be injured than to finish low down. I never went back on that".
So what does the summer hold? "PBs are irrelevant" said Matthews ordering a doughnut "for me it's about how many races you win. I have achieved far more in the sport than some guys who are running low 3:40s for 1500m". Matthews was coy on what he thought he could achieve, but refused to rule out qualifying for the AAAs U23 Championships as of right this year rather than fictionalising his PB. It is thought that he may even attempt to break 4 minutes for 1500m.
Finally, the big question: where next? "I can't say for sure" smiled Matthews looking up from his hot chocolate "I know George doesn't want me here [in Loughborough] and so who knows - maybe I'll stick it out".
Saturday, 14 May 2011
MANCHESTER CITY GAMES NEWS
Ahead of this weekend's big event in the London of the North, the lufbra echo excites in the build up
OHURUOGU 'FORGETS' TO PAY FOR PARKING
The Olympic 400m Champion has been slapped with a £70.00 fine by Manchester City Council after failing to pay and display during a shopping trip. It is understood that Ohuruogu will appeal the fine on the grounds that she had to "change her shopping plans at the last minute" and "with all the other stress of being an athlete" shouldn't be expected to remember to pay for parking her 4x4 with blacked out windows.
CHAMBERS BANNED FROM ENTERING 'THE NORTH'
Belgrave's Dwain Chambers has been asked not to venture north of the Watford Gap this weekend on the grounds that he may bring adverse publicity to an event designed to laud the success of Track & Field. It is understood that the sprint king successfully appealed an action from the organisers to ask him to leave the country. Greek sprint darling Katerina Thanou is a guest at tonight's gala dinner.
GEB WARNED AFTER PUSHING OVER GAY
Haile Gebrsalassie has been sanctioned by UK Athletics after attempting to push Tyson Gay into the Manchester Canal during a photo-shoot. The marathon world record holder reduced Gay to tears after repeated taunts about his inability to beat Usain Bolt. An insider revealed that the Ethiopian "told Tyson that even Bolt was a part timer and still much better than him. It was then that he pushed him over but he didn't quite fall in the canal". UKA held a private meeting between the two parties but refused to elaborate on what action - if any - would be taken.
24 HOUR SECURITY PROMISED AFTER THEFT
The 150m straight track was stolen by some visiting Liverpudlians, the lufbra echo can reveal. It is understood that the group - thought to be associated with Liverpool Harriers and led by Johnny Mellor - rolled the track up and put in the back of a Vauxhaull Astra estate (1.6l, XXXL exhaust, no hubcaps). Officials have condemned the theft and stated that David Oliver had now been placed on permanent guard of the new track.
OHURUOGU 'FORGETS' TO PAY FOR PARKING
The Olympic 400m Champion has been slapped with a £70.00 fine by Manchester City Council after failing to pay and display during a shopping trip. It is understood that Ohuruogu will appeal the fine on the grounds that she had to "change her shopping plans at the last minute" and "with all the other stress of being an athlete" shouldn't be expected to remember to pay for parking her 4x4 with blacked out windows.
CHAMBERS BANNED FROM ENTERING 'THE NORTH'
Belgrave's Dwain Chambers has been asked not to venture north of the Watford Gap this weekend on the grounds that he may bring adverse publicity to an event designed to laud the success of Track & Field. It is understood that the sprint king successfully appealed an action from the organisers to ask him to leave the country. Greek sprint darling Katerina Thanou is a guest at tonight's gala dinner.
GEB WARNED AFTER PUSHING OVER GAY
Haile Gebrsalassie has been sanctioned by UK Athletics after attempting to push Tyson Gay into the Manchester Canal during a photo-shoot. The marathon world record holder reduced Gay to tears after repeated taunts about his inability to beat Usain Bolt. An insider revealed that the Ethiopian "told Tyson that even Bolt was a part timer and still much better than him. It was then that he pushed him over but he didn't quite fall in the canal". UKA held a private meeting between the two parties but refused to elaborate on what action - if any - would be taken.
24 HOUR SECURITY PROMISED AFTER THEFT
The 150m straight track was stolen by some visiting Liverpudlians, the lufbra echo can reveal. It is understood that the group - thought to be associated with Liverpool Harriers and led by Johnny Mellor - rolled the track up and put in the back of a Vauxhaull Astra estate (1.6l, XXXL exhaust, no hubcaps). Officials have condemned the theft and stated that David Oliver had now been placed on permanent guard of the new track.
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
COE OFFERED 'CAN OF COKE' TO IOC CHIEFS SHOCK
Lord Sebastian Coe is facing a fight for his career and credibility this evening after it was revealed that the Head of London 2012 offered to "buy all the IOC executives a can of coke" just days before they were due to vote on the destination of the 2012 Games. The revelations come just over a year before the Games' Opening Ceremony and officials in Paris (who lost out to London) have called for them to be "postponed" until an investigation can be carried out.
A furious Paris insider blasted the "disgusting unfairness" of the selection process. "I think it is very unfair" thundered Olympic Minister Jean-Pierre Le Frog "for me, the Olympics must be decided by the best bid and not who has the right money for the vending machine." Le Frog dismissed allegations that his own bid team were responsible for offering the decision makers "a bottle of Orangina" for both them and a partner. "This is nonsense, total nonsense" he blasted "what is not nonsense is what we have always said- this [Lord] Coe is nasty and very strange".
A Senior 2012 Official confirmed that his Lordship had been made aware of the story and that they had "no comment other than to make it clear that they intend to go ahead as planned on July 27th". It is not yet clear whether any of the IOC Chiefs took up Coe's offer, but is understood that some were alienated when Diet Coke was not available.
A furious Paris insider blasted the "disgusting unfairness" of the selection process. "I think it is very unfair" thundered Olympic Minister Jean-Pierre Le Frog "for me, the Olympics must be decided by the best bid and not who has the right money for the vending machine." Le Frog dismissed allegations that his own bid team were responsible for offering the decision makers "a bottle of Orangina" for both them and a partner. "This is nonsense, total nonsense" he blasted "what is not nonsense is what we have always said- this [Lord] Coe is nasty and very strange".
A Senior 2012 Official confirmed that his Lordship had been made aware of the story and that they had "no comment other than to make it clear that they intend to go ahead as planned on July 27th". It is not yet clear whether any of the IOC Chiefs took up Coe's offer, but is understood that some were alienated when Diet Coke was not available.
Sunday, 8 May 2011
ATHLETICS WEEKLY 'A JOKE' SAYS EMERY
Stephen Emery has sent a "strongly worded email" to Athletics Weekly editor, Jason Henderson after the "pathetic coverage" of BUCS this week. The 5,000m silver medalist described himself as "aghast" that the men's event did not warrant a single mention. "Didn't they watch the bloody race?" thundered Emery from an energy drink event "how can they ignore me upping my bronze to silver? I can only think that it is a personal attack on me".
Henderson refused to comment this afternoon, but an insider at AW dismissed suggestions that they had anything against Emery. "Perhaps it's because it was the weakest field for decades" wondered the source "or perhaps it's because it was first thing on Monday morning and we had bigger fish to fry. Who knows - but I think Steve's remarks are very disappointing". The source went on to point out that when they included a picture of Emery at the BUCS Cross Country event (in which he finished 12th), they were "inundated with complaints".
Emery was in no mood to accept such an explanation. "Nonsense" he fumed "I saw how the photographer stopped taking pictures when it became clear that I was going to medal yet again. I said that I would and then I did. They all just need to realise that you can succeed without any junior success. I am living proof of greatness". In response to his remarks being "disappointing", Emery slammed his water bottle (chilled; pH 6.8) on the floor and said that he found "their whole excuse for a magazine disappointing".
Henderson refused to comment this afternoon, but an insider at AW dismissed suggestions that they had anything against Emery. "Perhaps it's because it was the weakest field for decades" wondered the source "or perhaps it's because it was first thing on Monday morning and we had bigger fish to fry. Who knows - but I think Steve's remarks are very disappointing". The source went on to point out that when they included a picture of Emery at the BUCS Cross Country event (in which he finished 12th), they were "inundated with complaints".
Emery was in no mood to accept such an explanation. "Nonsense" he fumed "I saw how the photographer stopped taking pictures when it became clear that I was going to medal yet again. I said that I would and then I did. They all just need to realise that you can succeed without any junior success. I am living proof of greatness". In response to his remarks being "disappointing", Emery slammed his water bottle (chilled; pH 6.8) on the floor and said that he found "their whole excuse for a magazine disappointing".
Saturday, 7 May 2011
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