Comments on: Thinking of Diamonds

By: Nicky Grant

Nicky Grant — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 13:49:53 +0000

As a hammer thrower, it does, indeed make me feel a little less enthused about the prospect of the hammer throw receiving even LESS visibility. I can understand it’s a demanding long throw in that there are issues with “divots” on soccer fields, but it’s still super cool to watch since there’s so much going on.

With all of this in mind, I am fully cognizant of its “niche” appeal. It will still be the marquee event in Hungary, Estonia etc. Just as the javelin will always be #1 in Finland. (As an aside, I know Sanya has been advocating for the throwers, so do your thing, girl! We appreciate it!)

In the end, I suppose anything that actually seeks to grow the sport in a more equitable fashion is better for all of us in the long run (?) IF it is managed in a progressive fashion. I, personally, would like to see a business plan for the next 3-5 yrs from the IAAF on this, particularly as it will bracket the OG in 2012 and provide a bridge to Brasil in 2016. They’ve been donkeys abt marketing Athletics outside of traditional strongholds in Europe. One fundamental flaw is the lack of medium-sized meets to bring ppl closer to the action. They do this *a lot* in Deutschland. Have the meet, but bring ppl down the ground level to interact w/athletes and learn abt the sport. Make the ambassadors actually function as, well, ambassadors in the truest sense. You want the flow? Hustle for us, yo! Trust; spending some time with Bolt is probably the most fun a fan can have…he’s insane. BUT FUN! And track should be FUN b/c everyone can do it regardless of equipment and facilities!
Okay, I’m rambled on enough. Keep it going Supah! But if you can get your hands on that business plan…

By: Samyr Laine

Samyr Laine — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 02:52:40 +0000

I appreciate it man. Hey, no one can question whether or not you’ve “arrived” once the IAAF asks you to be a Diamond League ambassador right? Plus it assumes that you’ve won some gold medals. Since the sport is becoming a bit more about the $$ I think those in the position to make decisions are looking to go with the flow a bit more, whatever flow the fans are looking for since they’re the ones who bring $$ and attract sponsors.

Good luck on that exam tomorrow.

By: Samyr Laine

Samyr Laine — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 02:50:16 +0000

Yea man…definitely still at the foot of the stairs. I guess we’ll see how this first year of the Diamond League shakes this up, especially since it’s a year without the outdoor World Championships or Olympics (Commonwealth Games don’t count since they’re in October). Athletes have to understand its purpose and buy into it as well.

By: Rachaunn Ruffin

Rachaunn Ruffin — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 02:45:23 +0000

So I guess the real goal is not to win gold but to try to become an ambassador, because that’s where the money is. To top that it isn’t fair to other field events like you stated earlier. I like seeing the discus throw more than my own event sometimes, but it is a good idea. Give the people what they want. I guess you gotta go with the flow.

Good blog coach,

I look forward for more to come

By: Lawrence E. Adjah

Lawrence E. Adjah — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:38:34 +0000

Great post.

As you noted, the trick is creating a foundation that’s consistent, equitable and easy to follow and build affinity behind.

Everything must build around that from the athletes mix and matchups to increased diversity of hosting sites. It’s a step in the right direction, but we’re at the foot of the stairs if we want it to be sustainable, as a sports and a career for the unlimited number that love it.

Keep building.

By: Samyr Laine

Samyr Laine — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:28:52 +0000

I should be in a position to compete at the Adidas Grand Prix and hopefully other Diamond League meets once I accomplish my indoor goals. I’m looking forward to it! Tickets should go on sale for that particular meet in a matter of days actually. Keep checking: http://www.reebokgrandprix.com/ since they haven’t changed the meet web address yet.

By: Mary (S) B

Mary (S) B — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:11:27 +0000

Would you still attend these meets? I’m hoping to grab tickets for the ADIDAS Grand Prix in NYC but the IAAF hasn’t released the date ticket sales can begin…