South African athletes say SASCOC’s decision to suspend the entire Athletics South Africa board is a step in the right direction ahead of the 2012 London Olympics.
Olympics governing body SASCOC suspended the ASA board on Thursday, pending the outcome of a disciplinary investigation into their handling of the Caster Semenya gender dispute.
Early last month, three of ASA’s 17 provincial affiliates called for the entire ASA board to step down over the saga.
Sprinter Geralnie Pillay says SASCOC’s timely decision will help South Africa in their preparation for the 2012 Olympics.
“I think SASCOC acted swiftly in order to rescue athletes from failing to do well at the 2012 Olympic Games,” says Pillay.
Former athletic coach Wilfred Daniels, who resigned from ASA over his part in the Semenya gender dispute, has called on the ASA to get its house in order before the beginning of the athletic season in January.
“This saga should be closed before 1st of January 2010. The athletes will understand that the sport is in good hands and that they will be able to compete,” says Daniels.