German athletes see global opportunity

Germany’s leading athletes of the past and present have come together to urge the sport’s community to take part in the Global Conversation.  

In an article published on the national federation website, the 1996 Olympic decathlon silver medallist Frank Busemann is keen to emphasise the sport’s unique diversity as a key component for the future. 

"Running, jumping, throwing - athletics is as diverse as its athletes and so that it stays that way, we can help shape the future of athletics with this survey,” said Busemann, who also won bronze in the decathlon at the 1997 World Athletics Championships and gold in the 110m hurdles at the 1993 World Junior Championships in a storied career.

His passion is echoed by contemporary German internationals Martin Wierig and Maria Purtsa who both recognise the broad potential of athletics.

Discus thrower Wierig, twice a World Championships finalist, said: “Athletics is the most versatile sport in the world. It offers everyone the opportunity to develop sportily. Nevertheless, we are often still considered to be a 'fringe sport'. We should change that. A first step is to take part in the survey and let your own perception flow into it."

Meanwhile, national triple jump champion Purtsa said: “The future direction is especially important because I am firmly convinced that athletics makes a huge contribution to the physical and motor development of children. It lays the foundations for sport, because you can jump, throw and run from an early age and then specialise accordingly later.”