GB Distance Running Gets Advisory Group

In an effort to revive British distance running, London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe will be part of an advisory group that will aim to support Ian Stewart, who has been appointed to lead UK Athletics’ endurance-running strategy.

A sport that has struggled in recent Olympics – only 1500m runners Lisa Dobriskey and Andy Baddeley and 10,000m runners Jo Pavey and Kate Reed made their respective finals in Beijing – the advisory group is set to help Stewart, in conjunction with UKA head coach Charles Van Commenee, to oversee the programmes of athletes identified as potential medallists or finalists at the London Games.

Stewart, who is an Olympic 5000 metres bronze medallist and world cross country champion, and Coe – also a former successful long-distance runner – will be joined by well-renowned endurance athletes Steve Cram, Paula Radcliffe, Dave Bedford, Brendan Foster and Liz McColgan in forming the support group.