Zero gun test costs Letsile

In rejecting the record, World Athletics (WA) explained that there was no zero gun test performed on the timing equipment. World Athletics also rejected Jamaica’s women’s U20 4x100m relay team record because not all team members were subjected to doping control after the race. The Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) vice president-sport development, Tshepo Kelaotswe told Mmegi Sport that ratification is an attempt to apply for the time that the athlete ran to be recognised and for it to be the record.

He said they were aware of what was to be done but it was just an oversight. He added that Letsile took everyone by surprise by clocking 9.96. He said the officials are used to athletes qualifying for competitions and setting national records, and there was no need for a zero gun test. Kelaotswe said normally the alarm to do the zero gun test is carried out when the timing equipment is outsourced and they want to be sure that what they are using is in perfect condition.