Prefontaine Classic Diaries: More news on Eugene DL

EUGENE (USA): When the Prefontaine Classic’s famous Bowerman Mile became overwhelmed by the interest of the world’s best middle distance runners, the International Mile was born. Among experienced runners this year (Andrew Wheating, Lopez Lomong, Fouad El Kaam) also 18 years old High School runner David Principe who aims to be 10th US runners with sub 4. Another youngster is only 16 years old Jakob Ingebrigtsen who will be supported by oldest brother Henrik Ingebrigtsen. Also in the field European indoor champion 2015 Jakub Holusa, Chris O´Hare of Britain, Brazilian Thiago Andre and Luke Mathews from Australia.

EUGENE (USA): Renaud Lavillenie has said he is not in favour of the new Diamond League format which means athletes have to win at the finals in order to be crowned the winner, informs L’Equipe. “This rule does not benefit anyone. Before, the most consistent athlete was rewarded, which was a very good formula. Today we can find ourselves in a scenario with someone who has an average season but a great contest in the final. The winner of the Diamond League may therefore be less known,” he said. Lavillenie has confirmed he is injury free again and aiming for another win in Eugene this weekend. “The objective is to win because I have won the previous four editions and I do not go on a competition to finish second.”

EUGENE (USA): World 110m hurdles champion Sergey Shubenkov has received an American visa today but his coach has said he will not race at the Prefontaine Classic on Saturday, informs Sport Express. “Sergey just called me and said that he was given an American visa today. But, unfortunately, we do not have time for travel to Eugene,” said Sergey Klevtsov. Shubenkov’s next race will be in Rome on 8 June.