Semenya to make return in June

| Wednesday April 7, 2010 00:00

In a statement yesterday, (Monday) she said: 'Together with my coach and agent, I have therefore decided that I will return to competitive athletics at the EAA meeting to be held on 24 June in Zaragoza, Spain. 'I reiterate that, based on medical and legal advice, I am firmly of the view there are no impediments to me racing in female athletics competitions.'

The results of Semenya's tests last year were first expected in November but the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) announced last month that the case had still not been concluded.

The 19-year-old also revealed she has decided against taking Athletics South Africa to court after the organisation did not allow her to run at a meet in Stellenbosch last week. Her statement continued: 'I believe the decision to bar me from competing in Stellenbosch last week was unlawful and wrongful.

'I have, however, considered the request by Athletics South Africa (ASA) that I await the conclusion of the International Association of Athletics Federations' (IAAF) processes by the beginning of June this year before I return to competitive athletics'. 

Semenya added: 'I welcome ASA's public statement it will ensure the IAAF is held to its undertaking to complete its processes by the beginning of June.

'I trust ASA will do the honourable thing and stick to its word in this regard. I have also instructed my legal representatives to seek confirmation by the IAAF that it will complete its processes by the beginning of June. I also trust that this will be forthcoming.' (Guardian)