Manchester GreatCity Games organisers have apologised to Jessica Ennis for the mix-up that led to her being denied a personal best in the 100m hurdles at the Manchester Games.
Team GB heptathlete Ennis ran 12.75 seconds but her time was invalidated because nine hurdles, instead of the necessary ten, were put on the track.
“We’re embarrassed and disappointed,” said David Hart of organisers Nova.
“We’re pleased Jessica has accepted our apology. We take full responsibility and it won’t happen again.”
Ennis beat reigning Olympic champion Dawn Harper and world silver medallist Danielle Carruthers in the race on a specially constructed track along Deansgate in central Manchester.
The 26 year old’s coach Tony Minichello told BBC Sport,”It’s a mistake, it’s unfortunate but we move on.”
An official statement from Great CityGames read:
“We can confirm that due to human error only nine sets of hurdles rather than the required ten were put out on the track for the women’s 100 metres hurdles event this afternoon.
We employ leading UKA officials to manage this vital element of the event on our behalf, and we will of course be investigating this unfortunate occurrence further with them.
On behalf of all those staging the Great CityGames today, we would like to apologise for this unacceptable incident, and in particular to the athletes.
We are unable to provide any further comment at this time until a more thorough investigation has been concluded.”
Lizzie Flint, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
