DONALDSON BLASTS 'HOPELESS' BUCS SET UP

With George Gandy away on urgent guru business he has left his press conferences to his Executive PA, Alasdair Donaldson - who has wasted no time in calling for an "urgent review" of the BUCS hierarchy. Furious that start lists were "going up too late" and the "wind was too strong", Donaldson wondered whether there was "any point in Loughborough turning up for the rest of the Championships".

"You want the officials to get the big things right" thundered the irate Scot (who doesn't have time to read this blog) "I'm afraid that wasn't the case today. Where was the finish line technology? We were lucky that it didn't cost us - but mark my words they will get a really major decision wrong by Monday and then we'll all be talking about it". The Newham and Essex Beagle went on to state that he "clearly saw" Mick Woods of St Mary's going into the officials' changing area and "leave with a big smile on his face".

Donaldson - who both Loughborough and UKA have hurriedly distanced themselves from - then voiced his "utter disgust" at the preferential treatment offered to the Birmingham representatives. "Did you see the plush holding area they get?" stormed the tea specialist "whilst Ian [Anholm], David [Howe] and I shiver in the wind. It's a total joke - beyond the pale". Bud Buldaro and his officials have been granted exclusive access to the VIP lounge at Bedford after Buldaro slammed the coffee provision at last year's event. "I don't know if it is because they have Kukri on their vests" Donaldson continued "or it's because everyone likes Birmingham, but something's wrong when you see so many decisions going their way. It's very poor".

BUCS have dismissed Donaldson's comments as "hysteria" and have clarified that no bribes were received from Mick Woods and that Bud Buldaro had "won a competition" granting him special treatment for the duration of the Championships.

On the track, Loughborough survived a scare from Kieran Flannery who was nearly knocked out in the heats of the 800m after easing up well before the line, whilst self-proclaimed pre-race favourite Stephen Emery qualified with ease for the final of the 5,000m.

SLUR ALLEGATIONS HANG OVER LOUGHBOROUGH

Sensational accusations look set to derail the positive atmosphere that George Gandy and UKA are trying to create at Loughborough's HiPac. Allegations published in this morning's Sun newspaper have cited "several leading names" at the famous African Violets have been "throwing sessions" in betting scandals. The front page article under the breathless headline 'PURPLE SHAME', states that the unnamed stars have been engaged in a spot betting scam akin to the one currently dogging Cricket. "Athletes will throw a particular repetition," said the article's source, "for example, they will back off in the 9th rep of 10 300s or will jog the first few and then win the rest. They can expect to earn roughly £1,000 for every repetition they fix."

George Gandy, Loughborough's infamous director, was awoken in the early hours and informed of the story but refused to issue any comment. However, a spokesman for Ian Anholm described the accusations as "absolute nonsense" and promised "full and comprehensive reprisals" for the Sun. "It will be a long time before they get anywhere near one of our press conferences again," thundered the source this morning, "it is absolutely shocking journalism." UK Athletics have stood by the Loughborough stance and have said that it is "very unlikely" that the accusations can be conclusively proven. A growing throng of journalists is now gathering around the club's training centre and, despite instructions not speak to the media, some athletes have voiced "shock and horror" that their peers may not have been giving 100% to every session. "It's hugely upsetting," said one athlete who did not want to be named, "you train with people day in day out then something like this ruins everything."

The Sun meanwhile has promised more revelations in the coming days. As well as naming the athletes in the centre of this scam, the paper claims to have evidence of the black market dealing of physio vouchers and unauthorised access to the ice baths. "It is a week that will rock Loughborough to its very foundations," said a Sun insider, "for too long now the authorities have overlooked the blatant foul play going on in the East Midlands - we are going to blow the lid on it all."

THE LUFBRA ECHO: 100 POSTS OLD

Despite protestations that the site would be “closed down”, the Lufbra Echo today reaches a significant milestone: this is the 100th post. Ahead of an extended holiday for the busy editorial team, and largely because we can’t think of anything else to write, we thought that we would re-hash some of the best bits over the past few months. Cheap and lazy journalism? Well, possibly. But to be fair in two hours of live athletics coverage on Tuesday morning, the BBC spent well over half of it reminiscing about the Barcelona 1992 Olympics, so we feel we are due our own look back. Make yourself a nice cup of tea, sit back and enjoy our look over the top 10 moments in Echo history. Simply click on the number to read the story.

NUMBER 10: It was us who first broke the news that the now European 10,000m champion Mo Farah had had to give up on his hope of scooping the BBC Masterchef crown.

NUMBER 9: Ryan McLeod makes his first appearance in the countdown after he and Nick McCormick broke Loughborough’s pricy Alter-G treadmill.

NUMBER 8: Bowser, a European Cross Champion? Surely not. Err, well according to the BBC he was.

NUMBER 7: And a welcome first entry for the Echo’s award winning Portugal coverage. Here, there are concerns before the annual influx of distance runners even arrive in the Algarve.

NUMBER 6: Justice for LaShawn! The Echo sensitively discusses the drug cheat’s private issues.

NUMBER 5: UKA shocked everyone with their World Cross Selection. We had our own exclusive twist on the story.

NUMBER 4: It’s that man again! Ryan McLeod was in trouble after calling the emergency services for his damaged iPhone

NUMBER 3: It’s a bronze for the much praised coverage of the McLeod-Russell spat. The Echo was thanked by the Sports Journalists Association for our sensitive articles.

NUMBER 2: POST DELETED DUE TO ONGOING LEGAL FIGHT. Uh oh! It looks like we can’t bring you our silver medallist as we are still entrenched in a bitter and drawn out courtroom drama!

NUMBER 1: Well it had to come down to something on Portugal didn’t it? Yep, you guessed it- the gold medal Echo article as voted for by our research department is the report following a “night of scandal” in Vilamoura. Happy memories.

The Echo will now be on holiday until something interesting happens, if it ever does.

WORLD EXCLUSIVE: ISINBAYEVA- WHAT REALLY HAPPENED

Echo reveals how a fight with her pole could spell the end for the greatest vaulter of all time


HAPPIER TIMES: Isinbayeva declared her love for the pole as recently as last year

The World Record holder for the women's pole vault has not resumed competition this season after an argument with her pole, the Lufbra Echo can reveal. Yelena Isinbayeva has "not even looked" at her pole since it badly let her down at the back end of last season. In an exclusive interview, the Russian told of how the pole simply "wasn't giving anything back anymore." "Everyone knows I always speak to it [the pole]," said a tearful Isinbayeva, "well in that event [IAAF World Athletics Final], it just wasn't behaving like normal. It's almost as if it had something to hide."

Insiders at the Russian Federation of Athletics described an "almighty row" between Isinbayeva and her equipment after "no heighting" at the Berlin World Championships. An anonymous ex-KGB source said, "Yelena was furious. She spent several hours ranting and raving at the pole. There was no reply. In the end, I think she smashed a bottle of vodka over it." Close friends of the star are said to be "gravely concerned" at the recent developments. A neighbour said, "we have asked her to seek counselling to try and build bridges, but she won't. She seems so upset since it all happened." Another close friend revealed that the issues had been underlying for sometime. "It's so sad," revealed the now exiled Russian spy, "they seemed so happy together- but there have been problems. I know that Yelena had some doubts about the pole's fidelity after reading some texts."

Other vaulters have been known to have issues with their poles. British number one, Steve Lewis recently courted criticism after deciding to part company with his. Lewis informed his pole of the split via email and many Loughborough insiders have said that this was unfair. "Steve just upped sticks and left," said a senior aide to Ian Anholm, "I think he was upset after the Loughborough International. As you can imagine, the pole and everyone else has taken it badly."

Meanwhile, Isinbayeva has said that she "does not know" when she will be back competing. "It's like I am in limbo" said the multi-millionaire, "I can't bring myself to move on and find another pole yet. There might be some hope- maybe we can get back together. I don't know- the ball is in his [the pole's] court."

POSTAL VOTING CANCELLED AS POLICE LAUNCH CORRUPTION PROBE

Leicestershire Constabulary have announced an investigation into “highly irregular” goings on in the postal voting system for LSAC’s annual elections due to be held on Wednesday. Observers from the United Nations have had to be drafted in amid fears that the poll will descend into chaos as an “unprecedented number” of voters are expected to voice their displeasure with the “old politics”. Postal voting, which was largely responsible for propelling the current President Hodges to power, has been cancelled this year after an unnamed candidate was caught photocopying voting forms in the early hours of Sunday morning. Police confirmed that a 20 year-old man was arrested and bailed and that “no corners would be cut” in the quest for fair democracy. “We can’t be too careful” sighed Ian Anholm, who is responsible for overseeing the elections, “after a year of scandal, we need to get everything right this time. This is a new era for LSAC.” Postal votes were brought in to avoid a repeat of the terrible scenes at the 2005 elections when thousands were prevented from casting their vote as polls were alleged to close early. They have not been without their dissenters however, with some calling Ed Womersley’s elevation to Cross Country Captain last year a “blatant stitch up”.

Meanwhile, candidates have been campaigning furiously into the night to gain ground in the “closest election in history”. Luke Stott has been accused by rival Michael Baker of “running a dirty campaign” after posters questioning the gender orientation of the GB International were displayed around Loughborough. Stott, who for his part slammed Baker’s own campaign as “half-hearted”, denied culpability and said that members of his team would be spoken to. Pete Matthews has seemingly re-focused his campaign in the wake of reports about his private life. The Sunday People ran a story titled RED, RED- BED: SEX FIEND MATTHEWS IN ALL NIGHT ROMP claiming that the former GB International (Mountain Running) played “sick role play games” with “as many as three hotties at once”. The article went on to suggest that Matthews would “seductively swap” international vests for each of his “bombshell babes”. The red head today gave an in-depth and tear-jerking interview with Piers Morgan, where he spoke of his “tough upbringing” and the “immense handicap” of being “an all round great guy”. His campaign team have conceded that it is “highly unlikely” that Matthews will be elected but dismissed rumours that running-mate Andrew Mariani was considering going it alone.

Elsewhere, Gary Bradbury has been forced to surrender his candidacy for Vice President after allegations surfaced that the 3:43 man had been “paying little or no attention” to his diet and photographs showing him “clearly buying full fat milk” were published. Bradbury said that the reports “amounted to entrapment” and were “gutter journalism of the worst kind.” Rumours that Dani Christmas was about to be installed as the new Chancellor have been rejected as “utter nonsense” by LSAC insiders. A source said, “we can’t have two women in the most powerful positions [a reference to Sophie Thomas’ probable presidential appointment], it just wouldn’t work. Besides, Dani is likely to have a lot of work to do in the run up to the festive season”. This leaves the door open for a potential bid from the likes of Ryan McLeod, who remained very coy on the speculation when searching for his car keys this morning.

HODGES ANNOUNCES 2010 ELECTIONS

STANDING DOWN: President Hodges will not run for a second term after being linked to a number of scandals

LSAC will hold their annual elections one week from tomorrow, after Rob Hodges- the current premiere- sought a dissolution of his committee in his weekly meeting with Loughborough supremo, George Gandy. Hodges will not be contesting for an unprecedented second term as president after scandal has marred much of his administration- with many stating that it is likely to have cost him a role as the Athletic Union President. In a short speech, President Hodges paid tribute to his "faithful team" and thanked his family for their "dedicated support". There is no question that Hodges' resignation is an act of great generosity to the people of LSAC- paving the way for a "fresh start" and a new form of "committee management".

People will not necessarily look kindly on Hodges' short tenure as committee chief. As early as his third week, it became clear that all was not as it seemed with club finances. The former Treasurer was seen to dodge a bullet when dismissing his replacement, Becky White over the cash-for-emails scandal. White was rumoured to be about to "blow the lid" on the "reckless borrowing" that had so epitomised Hodges' chancellorship. In a recent interview with a Sunday newspaper, White told of how the "dark forces of hell" were unleashed upon her when she dared to reveal that the club's deficit may be worse than first forecast.

White was at the centre of the second major issue to beset Hodges- the Red Bull fiasco. Club members were left seething when marched from their beds at 3am to officiate in a London race to "aid club funds". It was at this point that Pete Matthews attempted to launch a personal challenge to the Hodges administration with catastrophic results. Having initially indicated his support for such a move, Ian Anholm pulled the carpet from under the former GB International's (Mountain Running) feet at the last moment- throwing Hodges a lifeline. Approval ratings may well have dipped, but November's dismissal of the aforementioned White (after an expose from the Lufbra Echo) served to pacify the masses who were demanding the President's resignation.

Alas, Hodges will forever be linked to the "darkest days ever to haunt the club" in the debacle that was kit-gate. The key reason why any Matthews presidency would have been untenable was bubbling beneath the surface and stunned the sporting world in February. Whispers had been circulating for days that the kit would not arrive in time for the BUCS Cross Country and it was finally confirmed just 24 hours before the event. The late announcement forced many to shriek 'cover up', but in truth Hodges could hardly be blamed. His mistake was a stubborn refusal to apoloise for the gaffe and hope that the club would move on. As it was, the weeks ticked by and the kit did not arrive- culminating in its non-appearance at the BUCS Outdoors- a nightmare for any President or Kit Secretary. The resignation of Kieran Flannery did not suffice and it became clear to Hodges that electoral defeat was inevitable.

President Hodges took over in extraordinary times and it is fair to say that the Kingston-upon-Hull man made the best of what he had. Medals at BUCS Cross and convincing victories at both the Outdoor and Indoor events will perhaps serve as some comfort. However, as many campaign to "clean up Committee", Hodges will be inextricably linked to the former, dirty politics. Whether that is fair or not is for history to judge, but a clearly emotional Hodges perhaps summed up his plight this afternoon, "I did what I thought was right". Many will question him, many will point to shabby displays at all-you-can-eat contests, to allegations that he took his eye of the ball- but no one can doubt his conviction and determination to do his best for a truly great club.

The Echo will of course be covering the Elections in detail and would like to re-iterate it's position of neutrality. No one candidate in any position will be backed*. You can rely on us for independent and decisive coverage to help you make up your mind.


* Subject to change. Terms and Conditions apply. All donations will be considered.

NEWS ROUND-UP

With election fever gripping Britain, the Echo focuses on what's important and rounds up all that is new in France, Loughborough and beyond.....

McLEOD RUES DRIVING DECISION

Ryan McLeod has refused to drive his car back to the United Kingdom in the wake of allegations that travel mates, Lewis Moses and Johnny Mellor are not taking their navigational responsibilities seriously. The journey to Front Romeu- some 1,000 miles- took significantly longer than slated after McLeod made several “basic errors” in his directional choice. Mellor revealed earlier this month that he was “livid” with his driver as he refused to follow the instructions of the Sat Nav. However, yesterday Mellor went further, revealing that the convoy had “gone via Poland” in a bid to reach the altitude camp before nightfall. “I couldn’t care less if that daft lad doesn’t want to drive home,” said Mellor, “I’m quite happy to steal the car and drive myself.”

McLeod is rumoured to have been recalled from Barcelona airport having “forgotten” that he was due to drive back to the UK. It was only when he returned to the UKA base that it was revealed that he was having second thoughts over the decision. The Tipton Harrier was remaining silent this morning and refused to take any calls from journalists, but it looks as if days of negotiations lie ahead. UKA have called in specialist negotiators in to try and bring the crisis to a swift end, but it seems that there are “fundamental disagreements” between the two parties. An insider said, “Ryan thinks that Lewis and Johnny should take their role as navigators more seriously. He is also demanding that only songs from his iPod be played throughout the journey.” McLeod, who has a personalised number plate in order to help him remember which car is his, courted criticism on a recent day trip when he ditched conventional roads in an effort to beat George Gandy to a restaurant. His passengers, who have asked not to be named, told of a “terrifying” plunge down a number of ski slopes.

RANKINGS GAFFE INFRURIATES EMERY

Stephen Emery has said that he is “seriously considering” his participation in the Loughborough International later this month after Ian Anholm made an extraordinary error when typing up the latest LSAC rankings. “Why on earth am I not ranked number 1?” fumed the BUCS Outdoor 5,000m Bronze medallist, “who is that nobody, Wall-Clarke? I beat him in the heat and yet he is down as beating me. I am outraged.” Emery told of how this was the latest in a long line of bust ups with Anholm. “He never willingly gives me physio vouchers,” said the Coventry man, “he looks me up and down in a way that says ‘you’re not entitled to them’. Well I think my performance last week [at BUCS] shows that I am.” Anholm refused to comment on the allegation that he “had it in” for Emery, but did concede that the rankings could be wrong. “How am I supposed to get them all right?” protested the Admin supremo, “all I know is that he [Emery] was going backwards in the heat and so I may have assumed Wall-Clarke beat him.”

Anholm stopped short of issuing an apology and instead launched an attack of his own on Emery. Labelling the star “arrogant and dismissive”, Anholm revealed that he had had “a number” of complaints about Emery’s attitude since scooping the medal. “I have heard that he has been surging in runs and then celebrating as if he had won another medal. He also demanded that a fresher clean his spikes the other day and that isn’t on.” It is likely that George Gandy will set out a new disciplinary structure for LSAC upon his return from France, as it has become clear that the guru’s bungling deputies, David Howe and Alasdair Donaldson, are unable to control big names such as Emery. A source for the LSAC chief said, “George is looking forward to the challenge of righting a few wrongs when he gets back. He is disappointed to hear of some of the antics that have occurred in his absence”.

TALCUM POWDER ERROR LEAVES BOWSER EMBROILED IN DRUGS SCANDAL

Matthew Bowser has apologised to his “many fans” for using a brand of talcum powder that contains banned substances. An insider at Bowser’s Front Romeu camp revealed how the sub-30 10k man only realised his gaffe when it was too late. “He offered it around to the other lads,” said our source, “he said that it left his skin feeling wonderfully soft and re-hydrated. Thankfully, Johnny Mellor thought to check the label.” Bowser was forced to admit his wrongs to UKA chiefs and it is thought that the governing body has now launched a “damage limitation” exercise. The City of Sheffield man is “co-operating fully” with French authorities and it is likely that he will be let off with a “firm warning”.

Speaking at a press conference before travelling home this morning Bowser said, “I am one hundred percent responsible. The friendly man in Holland and Barrett never mentioned that there was an issue with it, but I should have asked.” The Lincoln based star went on, “it’s just that I have always struggled with dry and flaky skin- this powder solved those issues and so it is with a heavy heart that I stop using it.” UKA chief Charles Van Commenee sat in on the press conference, but would not be drawn on what sanctions await Bowser. “Let me be clear,” said the performance supremo, “Matthew is only guilty of wanting fresh, peachy skin like that of myself. He has not knowingly committed a doping violation.” Van Commenee went on to state that there had been no noticeable improvement in Bowser’s performances whilst using the powder. “It is unlikely that he inhaled enough to make any real difference,” said the Dutchman, “if he had been finishing sessions and races or producing unbelievable times it would be more of an issue. But he hasn’t so it’s fine”.

Both Van Commenee and Bowser stated that they were “absolutely dedicated” to a drug free sport and that Bowser would be giving a series of lectures on the “dangers of dermatological products” in competition. It is likely that the 14:13 5k man will be counting his blessings that this was discovered before it was too late. Only a fortnight ago, LaShawn Merritt was slapped with a lengthy ban for using a “male enhancement drug”.

SAMUELS SEASON IN DOUBT AFTER TAN FOUL-UP

Nick Samuels faces a “long road to recovery” after mistakenly using the wrong brand of fake-tan yesterday. Loughborough sources have revealed how the 1500m international made the error when “rushing to get home” from Boots. “Nick didn’t think to check the label and now his skin has turned a weird orange colour,” an insider said, “it is very distressing to look at.” There were also said to be problems in the application, which has left “a streaky complexion” to the skin. It is thought that the 3:45 man was forced to resort to the bottle after many had lauded George Gandy’s “beautifully toned skin” and one had even hinted that the guru’s tan was “the best in LSAC”. Speaking only last week, Samuels attempted to laugh off the story by pointing out that Gandy was “nearly three times his age” and that as a result could not be included in the contest. However, growing media attention for Gandy’s sunbathing rituals in Front Romeu is rumoured to have pushed Samuels over the edge.

A spokesman for the Sale man has “categorically denied” speculation that his charge used artificial tan. It was instead claimed that Samuels’ strange complexion was owing to an “overdose of carrots”. “It’s the only conclusion we can draw,” said the source, “Nick has been running late at night recently and so has been eating more carrots to help his vision.” Rumours to the contrary have been slammed as “malicious nonsense” aimed at “derailing” Samuels’ season. “Nick will be back as soon as this [skin complaint] has died down,” the insider continued, “he’s in good shape and so will be proving everyone wrong yet again”.

Club officials at Loughborough remained coy on the revelations this morning, but did concede that the battle to be top dog in the tanning stakes was “hotter than ever”. “Portugal was a turning point,” said Ian Anholm’s official spokeswoman, “I know that Nick was upset that he was unable to attend, but we have no evidence that he has been using sun beds and the like”. The official also rejected calls to change the historic African Violet kit because it “did not complement” an all-over tan. “I know that Flannery has been going on about this for ages,” said the source, “frankly we’re all fed up of it. We let the guys wear different shorts and that should suffice. End of story.” It was confirmed that the tan race, which culminates at the Loughborough International later this month, had been “blown wide open” by the news that Frank Baddick had booked a two week holiday in Spain.

BUCS DAY THREE.....

Well, it's all over. Another year, another early-season 'major' Championships comes to an end. The Lufbra Echo rounds up the action from the last day.....

HOWE DENIES BATH AMBITION

Loughborough's assistant coach, David Howe has "categorically denied" rumours linking him with a big money move to Bath University. The Canadian was mobbed by journalists as he arrived at Bedford this morning after Bath chiefs were seen meeting with him late last night. This morning's Sun carried pictures of Bath students wearing "GO CANUCKS" t-shirts and quoted the University's Director of Sport saying that he "had always had the utmost respect for all Canadians". When contacted by the Echo this morning, Bath insiders revealed that University supremos were "ready to commit to the right man" to lead the athletics set up. "Bath are ready to become a major force in Track and Field," said a source, "we have secured a lot of funding and are on the lookout for someone to lead us to a BUCS Outdoor push within the next few years." The spokesman dismissed speculation that George Gandy was about to "offload" Alasdair Donaldson on the spa town.

Howe meanwhile was keeping a low profile at today's events and was carefully watched by Loughborough's security personnel. John Nutall, however, did reveal that Howe was "thinking seriously" about his future and that "any opportunity would be looked at". The Preston born coach went on, "if I was David, I would be flattered. The opportunity to lead a great team like Bath with good backing is a once in a lifetime. I hope they find someone. Maybe a disgruntled UKA employed Prestonian with an excellent CV and good track performances to match. But who knows?"

As he drove away from the stadium, Howe called the links "ridiculous" before nearly causing a major accident by pulling out in front a a speeding BMW.

'ARCTIC' TEMPERATURES FRUSTRATE BRADBURY

Gary Bradbury has called for next year's Championships to be held elsewhere after bemoaning the "stupidly cold" conditions for the 1500m final. "It was terrible," said the Woking star, "I seriously considered racing in a tracksuit." Bradbury, who finished 4th, also responded to criticism that he did not take his semi-final seriously enough after sending a text message half-way through the race. "Look, if the other guys insist on running that slowly, then I am bound to get bored," fumed the 3:43 man, "I had been meaning to text this guy back about Chelsea tickets for a while and so I thought I would before I forgot."

Bradbury was not the only man to hit out at the weather. The entire Loughborough men's 4x100m team initially refused to race owing to a "ludicrous risk" of muscular damage. Luke Stott explained from the call room, "I have just been out there and let me tell you there's no way we can run it. It wouldn't be safe." Officials have denied that they were considering bringing in heaters to warm the track for the relays. "That was never on the cards," said an insider, "it was raised by a junior staffer and we dismissed it immediately. Thankfully the Loughborough guys relented after Ian Anholm threatened to ban the use of ice baths back in the East Midlands."

EMERY 'THRILLED' AFTER SENSIBLE DISPLAY

Stephen Emery has spoken of his "delight" after securing a bronze medal in the final of the men's 5,000m. The Coventry star stunned other competitors with a lethal 27.63 final 200m and made no effort to hide his glee. "I hope this shuts everyone up now," Emery told the Echo immediately afterwards, "Ben Green and the like have been on at me for so long. Why don't I increase this or do more of that- but this proves that being sensible is what counts." So sensible was Emery that he missed the medal presentation in order to complete his systematic cool down. "What a stupid time to hold the ceremony," said the 22 year-old, "if I didn't do my jog and exercises I would live to regret it for sure."

There is no doubting Emery's impressive performance this morning. Initially sitting just behind the main pack, the 1:52 800m man made steady progress throughout the middle portion of the race and unleashed his impressive sprint at the right moment. Unfortunately for him, race leaders Nick Goolab and Rory Chesser had got away from the field by this stage and it had become a scrap for bronze. Speaking after the race, new champion Nick Goolab bemoaned a "pedestrian" opening gambit. "The first few laps were absolutely ridiculous," said the Belgrave star, "I wish I hadn't bothered to warm up now it was so slow. Eventually I decided to turn it into a tempo and Rory was the only guy brave enough to come with me." Goolab also showed a good race awareness as he kicked away from Chesser in the final 100m. "It just wasn't my day," sighed a deflated Chesser after the race, "Goolab started saying nasty things to me in the last kilometre like 'you need a hair cut' and 'your socks are rubbish'. I guess that got to me."

BUCS DAY ONE....

All the action from Bedford, rounded up by our dedicated team.....

BUCS TO LAUNCH HORN PROBE

Meeting officials in Bedford have promised a swift investigation into the “ridiculous nuisance” that is a perennial horn blower. One insider told the Echo, “we have a fair idea of who it is and let me tell you the full weight of the law will be brought upon them....it’s all very childish and athletes are getting really quite upset about it.” All bags will be searched upon entry tomorrow with athletes and spectators to be subject to “random searches”. Our source went on, “we can’t go around making blind accusations and so hopefully the threat of action will deter the miscreant.” This news comes hours after Stephen Emery blamed the blower for running “too fast” in his 5,000m heat. “How can I be expected to win on Monday [in the final] now?” thundered the LSAC star from the team hotel, “I was 8 seconds quicker than I needed to be and frankly, I’m knackered....that god awful horn just kept blowing and I mistook it for a signal to speed up. It’s very poor.”

Emery was not the only athlete to be upset by the horn blowing. Matt Sullivan has said that it “almost certainly” cost him a place in the 1500m semi-final. “The horn put me off at the crucial moment,” harrumphed the 3:55 man from his post race press conference, “going into the final lap, I was ready to go. Then that f*****g horn blew and I jumped. I am really gutted.” Meanwhile, others have been quick to pour cold water on what is fast becoming known as ‘horn-gate’. Gary Bradbury said that he had “no issue” with the noise and that those who complained were “just being precious”. The 3:43 man went on, “I really can’t see the problem. Just because some guys aren’t good enough they look for excuses. That’s annoying. I found my heat extraordinarily easy.”

PARER CUT LEAVES STREET “50/50” FOR FINAL

Medics will this evening assess the damage to Peter Street’s right hand after the 5k star suffered a “horrendous” paper cut when removing his vest this afternoon. The Preston man had just qualified with ease for Monday’s final, but caught his finger on his bib number just before starting his cool down. A spokesman for LSAC said that it was “deeply troubling” but that Street would “receive only the very best care”. Our source continued, “it’s nasty, really nasty. But no one here feels like telling Ian Anholm [LSAC Administration chief] we may have a withdrawal. He reacts badly to things like that and it might kick off.” Street’s injury is currently being looked at by Loughborough’s team doctor and insiders have refused to rule out flying in a “paper cut specialist” from the States. “The good news is that we have tomorrow to get it sorted,” said a spokesman, “if the medics think that a specialist is required then that is what we will do. No expense will be spared.” The spokesman, who was speaking before boarding LSAC’s team coach, went on to lambast a “shoddy” day’s officiating from BUCS. “We’ve had paper cuts and power cuts,” he said, “it’s just not on. I only hope they can buck [geddit?!] their ideas up for tomorrow.”

WOODS IN GANDY SLUR

Mick Woods took time out today to tell the Echo that George Gandy was being “unprofessional” by failing to turn up to support Loughborough at the Championships. “Hopeless,” sighed the St. Mary’s man, “you don’t see me swanking off to Front Romeu now do you? That is because I am professional and I value my athlete’s progress.” Woods was speaking just after Mitch Goose, one of his charges, crashed out in the heat of the 800m. “That was disappointing, but Mitch is experimenting with a new haircut and it seems that his latest short look isn’t the way to go....he’ll be growing it now.” Woods went on to point out that Goose had “forgotten” his compression socks and that that gaffe was likely to have cost him “at least 3 seconds.” The Aldershot coach explained, “when you look at it like that, he made the semi. It’s all learning and he will be keeping a co-ordinated pair of socks on him at all times from now on.” Woods would not elaborate on rumours in this morning’s newspapers that another athlete of his, Stephanie Twell, was ruled out of BUCS after mistakenly eating two bananas in a day. “I won’t comment on such media nonsense,” stormed the former UKA coach before accidently walking into a wall.

LOUGHBOROUGH KIT DEBACLE: WHO SAID WHAT AND WHEN

The Lufbra Echo is deeply saddened (but not entirely shocked) to learn of the latest major setback surrounding Loughborough's new kit. Obviously, we are entirely impartial in the matter and pride ourselves on giving objective, factual accounts of the situation at hand. We are not swayed by protestations from some that this "was the best kit deal in the history of the world" [Matthews et al., 2009, 2010] nor do we pay attention to grumbles from LSAC's Director that "serious sanctions" await those responsible. We understand that Ian Anholm has been charged with "bringing an end" to the scandal and will get to it right after he has finished redecorating George Gandy's office. In the meantime, dear readers, let the Echo take you on a tour of what was said and who said it......

“From January 2010, when competeing [sic] for Loughborough University in any event, you MUST wear a Puma Vest. This is written into our contract with them. Old vests are therefore not allowed.....”
-Pete Matthews, LSAC Kit Sec, 5th October 2009.

"We'll have to drag those who don't want to wear it [the new kit] kicking and screaming"
-George Gandy, LSAC Director, October 2009 (as alleged by Sebastian Foy, LSAC Vice XC Captain)

“I have been a hugely successful kit sec”.
-Pete Matthews, LSAC Kit Sec, Many occasions

"The kit will be smart and make us look professional....a lot like Birmingham"
-Rob Hodges, LSAC Chair, December 2009

"Of course the kit will arrive on time....how embarrassing would it be if it didn't?!"
-Pete Matthews, LSAC Kit Sec, January 2009

“We are sorry to inform you that the puma kit order has been delayed by 3-4 weeks. The kit arrived in the country earlier this week, but I was informed this morning that it failed Puma's quality control testing procedures and so is being deported.

This is fairly significant news for the club as we are setting off for the BUCS xc champs tomorrow morning, departing from the union at 8am, and some athletes are currently without vests.”
-Rob Hodges, LSAC Chair, 4th February 2010.

"Will the kit arrive in time for BUCS Outdoors? Absolutely."
-Rob Hodges, LSAC Chair, March 2010

"The kit will not arrive for BUCS"
-Rob Hodges, LSAC Chair, 28th April 2010

“As you will probably be aware, the kit order has been a bit of a disaster. [...] We are now able to get some honest answers and are expecting to receive the vests and tracksuits in mid June. They are aware of our urgent need to have them for this weekend but there is no way they can manufacture them in time. [...]On behalf of Pete and myself, your kit secs for this year, I would like to apologise to all of you who have ordered kit.”
-Kieran Flannery, LSAC Kit Sec, 28th April 2010

LOUGHBOROUGH OPEN MEETING NEWS....

All the action from the BUCS Trials rounded up by the Echo

FURIOUS EMERY PONDERS ACTION AFTER BADDICK SLUR

Stephen Emery has said that he is “hurt and upset” after Frank Baddick accused the Coventry Godiva man of “bottling it” at the Loughborough Open (inc. BUCS Trials) held yesterday. Going into the race, bookmakers had stopped taking bets on an Emery win, with many citing his “tremendous” form at LSAC’s Portugal Warm Weather training camp- in February you could get odds of 100-1 for the same outcome. However, race organisers received a call from Emery on the morning of the meeting declaring himself unwell and unable to compete. Speaking at the post race press conference, a victorious Baddick taunted Emery, stating that it was “disappointing” he chose not to run. “This was the big test,” beamed the Newham and Essex Beagle, “and Stephen clearly wasn’t ready for it. He says he was ill- but we have seen this before. He was in excellent shape in South Africa last year and that came to nothing.”

Baddick, who has had a disappointing winter, also told of his relief to chalk up a race victory. “This is the one I wanted,” said the 24 year old, “it’s the stuff you dream of. When things were going badly I just kept focussed on this- I thought save it for the Loughborough Open- then you’ll show them all.” The 3:42 1500m man went on to call Emery’s withdrawal “suspicious”. “All I’m saying is that this was the first time there was real pressure on him. With his meteoric rise of late, I just wonder whether there is something in his system that he isn’t telling us about.”

Emery meanwhile presented a doctor’s certificate at his own press conference this afternoon and is less than happy at Baddick’s comments. “Nonsense,” thundered the 8:51 3k man, “jealous, malicious, half baked nonsense. The biggest load of nonsense since sliced bread.” Emery also revealed that he was in discussions with his legal team. “Just because he was nowhere all winter, Frank thinks he can make stuff up to bring us all down. That is deeply upsetting. I was puking my guts up yesterday and so could never have raced.”

SPRINTERS FUME AT ‘WRONG COLOUR’ TRACK

Loughborough’s sprinters are demanding that the entire track is dug up and re-laid ahead of next month’s Loughborough International after several athletes complained that the track was “too red”. 100m man, Luke Stott said that the track’s colour ruined his race yesterday. “It was blinding,” harrumphed the 10.7 (wind assisted) man, “I glanced up from my blocks and all I could see was red, red, red. It ruined my concentration.” Meanwhile, Echo favourite James Dasaolu refused to race altogether citing the “disgusting” track colour. “I don’t know what’s happened over the winter,” said Dasaolu en route to a race in Limoges, “it was fine last year but there’s no way I’ll race on that now- it’s out of order.”

Loughborough’s facilities boss, Ian Anholm was less than impressed with the “whining sprinters”. “It’s always the same. Summer comes around and they need an excuse and so have a go at me. Poor old me- I try my best, but what do they want me to do? Go out there and re-paint the thing?” Anholm, who has been accused of a “tyrannical” management style in the past, was speaking after launching a probe into “inappropriate parking” at the event. “Some vehicles were all over the place,” said the admin chief, “and I distinctly saw one car drive the wrong way around the one way system. Heaven knows what would have happened if someone had been coming the other way- it just doesn’t bear thinking about.” Anholm pledged to “get to the bottom” of the misdemeanour and that “no punishment would be too harsh” for the perpetrator.

GANDY SKIPS TRIAL IN FAVOUR OF ‘NIGHT OUT WITH THE LADS’

George Gandy has been snapped by French newspaper L’Equipe leaving a French nightclub in the early hours of Saturday morning despite a previous pledge to be at Loughborough’s BUCS trials. The guru refused to answer his phone this morning but a UKA insider revealed how Gandy never made it to the airport for his planned flight to the East Midlands. “Ryan McLeod was planning a big night out and George wanted to get involved. Alasdair Donaldson remained at the accommodation ready to make the tea the morning after.” Gandy’s actions are unlikely to sit well with many who were looking forward to showing off their early season form to the LSAC Director. It is rumoured that Chris Warburton was “close to tears” when he heard the news and that Gary Bradbury refused to leave his home for “some hours” having got off the phone with the guru.

ECHO ANNOUNCES BUCS DEAL

The Lufbra Echo is thrilled to announce exclusive access to the Loughborough camp at next weekend's BUCS Championships. The news comes after rival publications attempted to swipe the deal from under our noses, but our unnamed Chief Executive remained resolute. He enthused: "this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. George Gandy is away and so it is likely access will be absolute. Our loyal readership can look forward to nightly updates, exclusive interviews and all the action as it happens." The Echo narrowly missed out on a similar deal with the University of North Dunstable, but will be able to carry snippets from around the stadium at Bedford.

Coverage is subject to availability and a delay of several hours. Terms and conditions apply. Some interviews will be more exciting than others.

PORTUGAL 'CLOSED' TO ANY MORE DISTANCE RUNNERS

The Portuguese Government have today announced that they will not be allowing any more distance runners to book a training camp in the country this Easter. The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Luís Amado, has said that he plans to cut the number of runners in the hot spot by "roughly 30%" in 2011 with a further 15% cut in 2012. The news comes after a survey conducted by the Lufbra Echo revealed that 98% of all UK-based distance runners under the age of 26 would be training in Portugal this Easter.

Amado held last ditch talks with British counterpart David Miliband last night in a bid to prevent the migration. The talks broke off in the early hours with "no resolution". Miliband has said quite publicly that he does not see the issue with aspiring athletes heading to the Algarve to prepare for their summer seasons. The Portugese Government however point to last year's famous ice shortage in Vilamoura along with a complaints from locals about a lingering smell of deep heat. "It was dreadful," said a Portuguese source, "we had these thin white people running around everywhere. We ran out of ice as they kept lying in it and moaning about 'sore calves'....they don't even spend much in bars as they are in bed by midnight". The local source went on, "no hill is safe. Every slight incline seems to have these idiots charging up it. This has to stop."

Miliband is believed to have agreed "in principle" to blocking the booking of any further athletes, however "flatly refused" to grant Amado's wish and confiscate the passports of "all distance runners" for the next month. Describing the idea as "unworkable", Miliband did confirm that he spoke at length with Loughborough's infamous director, George Gandy. "He and I had a productive meeting," said the Foreign Secretary, "I told him in no uncertain terms that Portugal was not South Africa and that Chris Parr should be kept on a leash at all times."

LSAC is decamping its entire endurance operation to Portugal for three and a half weeks in a bid to escape what Gandy calls the "tyrannical" rule of Ian Anholm. Gandy yesterday told Anholm to calm down after the latter announced a probe into a missing pen that was last seen above the BUCS sign-up sheet. The prime-suspect is Dani Christmas who was seen "acting suspiciously" after her injury-curtailed drills session last night. Christmas, who is also rumoured to be responsible for Alasdair Donaldson's black eye, is alleged to have "ducked away" from the HiPac before speeding out of the main gate.

The Lufbra Echo will be reporting live from Portugal throughout the LSAC training camp. We will be offering the following:
- LIVE Pete Matthews injury updates
- LIVE relationship updates
- LIVE Donaldson assault updates
- LIVE bitch-ometer, including who is saying what about who
- LIVE Emery tan-watch. Will he tan or just go bright red?

For the price of just £35 per SMS, you can hear all this news A WHOLE 5 MINUTES before I put it on here. Terms and Conditions apply. For more information visit: www.sawyoucoming.co.uk