Dear Editor,

Despite the fact that we ought to think positive and be optimistic about the future, we should always remember this common saying: “Prevention is better than cure.”

The IAAF and the JAAA are still holding on very tightly to their decision not to change the new false-start rule — neglecting the danger, pain and setbacks it can cause to athletes.

Maybe the IAAF is the one we ought to target on this matter instead of the JAAA.

Even sports analysts seemingly do not want the rule to change. They want it to remain as it is. Can you imagine? The only times I heard people hit out against the new false-start rule is when a champion or a great defender, like Usain Bolt, false-starts.

The World Championships is just around the corner, so we need to reverse this troublesome barrier and replace it with the old rule, in giving athletes a second or third chance whenever they jump the gun. And as I said some time ago, a false start will always occur, at any time, because as long as we are imperfect human beings, it will be unavoidable.

Athletes have to go through months of hard training in preparation for big events, and in the final analysis, when they are looking forward to achieve success, a false start on the first go and they are out seems Draconian. It’s a spiteful imposition.

This new false-start rule will continue to be a big mistake. Therefore, in the name of justice let me ask the IAAF and the JAAA this relevant question: When will you remove this big robber of chances, advancement and success from track and field?

Donald J Mckoy

donaldmckoy2010@hotmail.com