Gold Coast AUS 26Jun09

DMA · July 1, 2009, 8:25pm

Interesting point from KK about Milburn’s coach having to consider Offereins (if selected) ahead of Milburn.

Going on last Friday night, I don’t think it’s a difficult choice. The gap between Offereins and Milburn was nearly one second which in 400m running is pretty significant. It was a comprehensive win and at this stage I can’t see how the selectors can ignore Offereins and must add him to the team.

I’m not sure Penny Gillies should be in this situation. In my view Tudor Bidder should be the head coach of the 4 x 400m team as he hasn’t got a conflict of interest. He does coach Chris Troode, but it is highly unlikely Troode will run quick enough at the World Uni Games to threaten Offerein’s spot. Bidder is a fair man, very competitive and genuinely wants the team to succeed and will pick the best team.

At this stage the team should line up as:
Steffensson, Thomas, Offereins, Wroe.
We need a good start to set it up and Steff will ensure we are around the mark at the first change over.
Thomas runs a good 800m so is use to the changeover (from lanes to indian file) and should hold his position.
Offereins is a good judge of pace and brings the ‘X’ factor that Ormrod offered in Athens. (Ormrod ran 3rd in Athens). He would leave Wroe in a solid position to bring it home.
As our (current) fastest athlete, Wroe needs to do the tough job of bringing it home and make up any ground that needs to be made.

There would need to be a significant improvement in form from Milburn to force his way back into the team.

I agree. I actually don’t like a coach being head coach with a conflict of interest as in this case. NO good can come of it. I am sure Penny is a nice person but the issues…

For one I am glad we are talking about being able to change athletes for others because of performance.