Press Conference Transcripts
WOMEN’S MARATHON Medal Press Conference transcript (Saturday, 16
August)
Gold: Christelle Daunay (FRA) - 2:25.14 CR
It was a difficult race. I had to be patient. We had to climb the hill four times.
I was always looking for Jessica and also Valeria because I knew they would
probably be my biggest challengers. I know that I’m also strong, and that is
why I had the confidence to attack at the end.
The conditions were ideal, with no wind. The temperature was cool, and OK.
The course surface was good and not wet.
The most difficult part today was to be patient and to try and be faster than
the others. But any of us three could have won today. Luckily I was the one.
But the next time it could be one of the others.
I was happy to contribute to France’s gold medal total (now at six, equal to
GBR). The others earlier in the week showed me the way.
I’m not sure of my next competition. I only decided to run here after the NY
Marathon last autumn, and after French colleagues encouraged me to
include it in her plans.
I could have run the 10K here, but my specialty has been the marathon. It
was my personal choice. The marathon distance has been a project with the
French Federation to help me reach my goals.
How long will I continue to run? As long as I’m in shape, I’ll continue to run
with pleasure. The gold medal today is a big incentive to continue doing the
hard work that I enjoy.
Silver: Valeria Straneo (ITA) - 2:25.27
I was leading early with Lisa Christina Nemec (CRO). She pushed me really
hard on the hill. It was a bit hard for me next to her because I didn’t want to
let her get away. At the end, I was having some problems with cramps and I
couldn’t push. In the end, I’m happy to have the silver today. Just glad to be
on the podium.
I don’t plan to run the world championships next year. Perhaps I may run the
NY Marathon later this year.
Bronze: Jessica Augusto (POR) - 2:25.41
I am pleased to win Portugal’s first medal here in Zurich. I worked hard for this
medal, and in a very intelligent way, I believe. I was with the first group during
the first short lap, then I fell back because I was listening to my body which
was telling me to go with another rhythm. I came back at the end and was
happy to have won bronze.
I did run the London Marathon, but I had time to rest for two weeks afterwards
so today was not so extremely difficult. This was my third marathon in 2014. I
will rest now for the Olympics. I do not plan to run in the world championships.
I need rest for now.
MEN’S 200 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Adam Gemili (GBR) - 19.98 world leader
I didn’t realize how strong the headwind was tonight until I was told. The track
is super fast. I just wanted to get to the podium.
I’m still only 20. I have more years to get fitter and stronger
Silver: Christophe Lemaitre (FRA) - 20.15
I came here only for the gold in the 200. I had the European lead, so I felt that
the gold was only goal. Now I must help my teammates in the relay tomorrow.
Because of some injuries in the others, I probably will have to run in the heats.
Bronze: Serhiy Smelyk (UKR) - 20.30
This was a very nice surprise in such a great company of sprinters. I am very
satisfied. Tonight, Ukraine won a full set of medals—gold and silver in the high
jump, plus my bronze in the 200. [NOTE: Zemlyak also won silver in the
women’s 400 tonight.]
WOMEN’S HAMMER THROW Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15
August)
Gold: Anita Wlodarczyk (POL) - 78.76 world leader, NR and CR
I expected to be fighting for the gold with Betty Heidler, but in the end I was
fighting with myself. After my opening two fouls, I was able to get a good
mark in the third round which gave me three more attempts to work hard for a
really good performance.
Would she have had a world record had it not been for the rain? Yes, I
thought that a world record was close. Perhaps I will be ready for it next week
in Warsaw. I’d like to be the first woman to throw over 80m.
Silver: Martina Hrasnova (SVK) - 74.66
I knew I was in good shape when I arrived, and it proved good enough for a
medal.
Bronze: Joanna Fiorodow (POL) - 73.67
I was a little shocked by the bronze. I knew there would be many good
throwers in the final. I got lucky on my final attempt and that moved me onto
the podium.
HEPTATHLON Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Antoinette Nana Djimou (FRA) - 6551
My toughest event was the 800, but it is also the one that I was most satisfied
with because it brought me past Nadine to the gold. Overall, my javelin was
the best event of the two days. My tactic in the 800m was to let Nadine pace
me and then run hard at the end.
I was disappointed with my high jump.
The conditions here were not much different than my training conditions in
Paris—rain. But I shaved my head, and the rain was probably less of a
problem for me!
Silver: Nadine Broersen (NED) - 6539
These two days were long, but now I’m happy with the silver. Best of all was
my high jump, which was a national record (1.94). My javelin was also good
tonight. The audience was good and the atmosphere helped a lot.
Bronze: Nafissatou Thiam (BEL) - 6508
I came here without thinking about a medal, even after my high jump (1.97—
highest ever in heptathlon competition). I really only started to think of a
medal just before the 800m. It was a PB in that event and I’m happy about it,
even though I really hate the event!
My biggest disappointment was with the long jump.
MEN’S HIGH JUMP Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Bohdan Bondarenko (UKR) - 2.35
It’s not easy jumping in the rain. This is the first time for me this season in such
conditions. Tonight, after jumping I was wet from head to toe.
Andriy was ahead of me when I was jumping at 2.35. My coach advised me
to change my approach on my second attempt, and that proved to be the
winning jump.
Is there still a chance for a world record this season? Maybe 50-50. I will be at
the Continental Cup in Marrakech in September. I was there in June and I
liked the stadium, except for the wind. Perhaps in September, things will be
calmer and that will be the right setting.
I plan to be in Birmingham if the visa arrangements can be made.
Silver: Andriy Protsenko (UKR) - 2.33
I want to win next time. I tried hard at 2.37 after Bohdan jumped 2.35 and I
had passed two jumps at that height. The conditions were simply bad for a
good performance. It was strange that I could not cope easily with the
surface at 2.26 where I needed three jumps, but then I cleared 2.30 on my first.
Just a strange evening.
I will jump in Eberstadt because I do not have a visa to compete at the
Birmingham Diamond League
Bronze: Ivan Ukhov (RUS) - 2.30
It happened like it happened. (Afterwards, Ukhov answered questions
privately with Russian media.)
MEN’S 400 METRES HURDLES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15
August)
Gold: Kariem Hussein (SUI) - 48.96
(Taken from flash quotes because Hussein did not participate in medal press
conference)
This was an awesome audience! I ran a fantastic time, a sub-49, a new PB
and got the gold. I’m more than satisfied. My start was good, I controlled my
rhythm, I stayed relaxed, I was patient, I waited and then attacked. It is
incredible.
You cannot plan such a thing in advance. You cannot even think it in
advance.
It’s a strange feeling. All of my emotions went into this race. I wanted it so
much. Normally I am not that emotional but at the start when the audience
supported me so much, I had tears in my eyes. But now I feel strangely empty.
I told you that I would get both—the gold medal and a PB—and when I say
something, I do it.
Silver: Rasmus Mägi (EST) - 49.06
The season has been a good one. I hope it signifies a breakthrough year for
me. I saw Hussein working hard during this final, so I give him my biggest
congratulations for his impressive win.
After my semifinal race, I had increased expectations perhaps. But finals are
always different. This was especially true tonight with the rain and the wind on
the backstretch. I really could not get into the proper rhythm.
Bronze: Denis Kudryavtsev (RUS) - 49.16
I hope to work together with my coach and improve my times for next season.
This is my first experience in a competition with three rounds. I felt tired. But at
the end of the day I’m satisfied with the bronze.
WOMEN’S 200 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Dafne Schippers (NED) - 22.03 world leader and NR
I’m a little tired after five races. But in the heptathlon first day, I’m also tired
after four events. So, I guess it should be expected. Next year I still plan to be
back in the heptathlon.
In general, I’ve run sprints indoors and heptathlon outdoors. I think that overall
I’m better in the 200 than in the 100.
Silver: Jodie Williams (GBR) - 22.46
I’m very happy, but I’m also quite tired after the Commonwealth Games. I
just tried to hold on here. I came here hoping for a medal, and I’m happy to
have achieved this goal.
I’ve had some difficult years recently. Injuries, coaching changes, etc. I knew
that I was in shape this year, but I had no idea of how far it would take me.
I’m more confident in the 200 now. I seem to have fewer problems with it than
the 100.
Bronze: Myriam Soumaré (FRA) - 22.58
Like Dafne I’m very tired. But I trained to be able to run all of these races so I
really have no excuse. I’m quite pleased to take home two medals.
MEN’S 800 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Adam Kszczot (POL) - 1:44.15
I was pretty certain of my fitness and readiness before the race. Now I know I
was right. In the first 200m in my opinion I had to catch only two people—
Marcin Lewandowski and Pierre-Ambroise Bosse. I did it and it mostly paved
the way.
I had watched Bosse in the last two European team championships, and I’m
convinced that he cannot win slow races.
Finally I have a senior gold medal at the European ourdoor level. I knew I
could win, but it’s not enough just to know. You have to do it.
Silver: Artur Kuciapski (POL) - 1:44.89
I’ve been training in the 800m for four years. I took on a new coach last
September and the change seems to have been a good one. I wasn’t even
sure that I could get to the final, and probably no one expected I could run so
fast, so this entire week has been a big surprise.
I was in seventh when I began to accelerate at the end, but as I did so and
was passing people, I felt that I could well move into the medals.
Bronze: Mark English (IRL) - 1:45.03
I worked hard to put myself on this big stage. Tonight was very rewarding. My
two goals this year were to make the final here and also break the Irish
national record. Hopefully I can break the record in one of my last two races
this season.
Entering the final straight, I had the feeling that I had a medal.
WOMEN’S 1500 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Sifan Hassan (NED) - 4:04.18
I worked hard for this gold medal. And tomorrow I have to run the 5000. But I
feel good about tomorrow.
I do better in Diamond League (paced) races than I do in non-paced races.
I prefer the 1500 distance over the 5000.
I’m happy to be a part of the Netherlands’ gold-medal performances (as she
watched Dafne Schippers win the 200m).
Silver: Abeba Aregawi (SWE) - 4:05.08
I had some foot problems tonight. But I was strong and in good form. It was a
hard race. I was trying to stay in the front, but Sifan caught me at the end.
Bronze: Laura Weightman (GBR) - 4:06.32
I knew it would be a difficult race tonight. I had to get used to a slower, more
tactical race. Still, I didn’t want to wait until the bell to make my move.
MEN’S 400 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Martyn Rooney (GBR) - 44.71 European leader
It’s about time (to get on the top step). It’s been a long time in coming. I’m
older and wiser since Beijing. Training with Olympic champions like Christian
Taylor helps a lot.
Today I knew I had to be strong on the home stretch, so I kicked hard at the
end.
At the Commonwealth Games, I probably could have run better. But the CG
were never my aim this year. The Europeans were always at the top of the list.
This win tonight vindicated my decision not to run the relay in Glasgow. I’m
looking forward to next year against the American and the ‘island boys’.
Silver: Matthew Hudson-Smith (GBR) - 44.75
(Switched from 200 to 400 this year). I had a lot of injuries last year. I had
planned to run 400 at the European Juniors but had to scrap that. In Glasgow
this year, I had no pressure because no one knew me. Tonight’s just a big start
for me in this new event.
With 44.75 in the first year, does the sub-44 second region look possible? I’ll just
take it one step at a time. [NOTE: The 27-year-old European record is 44.33.]
Bronze: Donald Sanford (ISR) - 45.27 NR
After the semifinals I had the third-best time, so I knew there was some
potential for a medal. Still it was a surprise for me. In the last 100m, I saw a lot
of people in front of me. I just maintained my technique and it pulled me
home in third.
I hoped this brought some light to the people in my new country who don’t
have a lot of good days at the moment. And I hope this medal will bring me
some more invitations to run in big races.
WOMEN’S 400 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Libania Grenot (ITA) - 51.10
I was happy to win tonight and take this gold medal back to Rome. I know
that I came here as a favourite, but coping with that pressure was not difficult.
I felt confident about myself, and I was calm and relaxed. I improved here
every round.
Silver: Olha Zemlyak (UKR) - 51.36
This race was really close at the end, too close (second through fourth
decided by 0.02). When I saw that I was second, I was ecstatic. Yes, we have
a relay coming up starting tomorrow, but I will run only in the final. We have a
strong team. We will see what happens.
Bronze: Indira Terrero (ESP) - 51.38
I was not sure about the results until I saw them on the stadium scoreboard. I
couldn’t believe that I had a medal.
(About finishing ahead of world and Olympic champion Christine Ohuruogu)
It was very important to be faster than such a top runner. She has always
been my big idol.
MEN’S STEEPLECHASE Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Yoann Kowal (FRA) - 8:26.66
It was quite a peculiar race. But I felt that I had wings. The last 400m I was
really able to go fast. I would prefer to have won this race with happiness
because I don’t want people to remember my gold medal because of what
happened.
For me, Mekhissi-Benabbad is the European champion. He is the only one in
the field who can compete with the other steeplechasers of the world. A
yellow card was a sufficient penalty for what he did, not disqualification. I
hope that Mahiedine will win a medal in the 1500 so that we can share a drink
together.
(Regarding his stepping down momentarily to share step with silver medallist
Zalewski) I know that I was showing some difficult emotions in the medal
ceremony and I will try to forget this unfortunate gesture in the future. I was
expressing my emotions of the moment and I am sorry.
I had four years with the 1500 and the steeplechase is quite a new event for
me. But I would like to continue in the future with this event.
Silver: Krystian Zalewski (POL) - 8:27.11
I’m happy for a medal. I was thinking about winning but Mekhissi-Benabbad
and Kowal were simply stronger. It unfortunately was not a good evening for
my teammate Mateusz [Demczyszak].
Bronze: Angel Mullera (ESP) - 8:29.16
I tried to be in front at the beginning. But about halfway I was being passed
by many. I became nervous, but I got my strength back in the last lap which
put me into a medal position. I’m extremely content with this championship.
It was the best race of my life.
(Regarding the booing fans at the medal ceremony) It is understandable that
there were some unhappy French fans. It is not my fault what happened. I
did nothing to deserve this reaction. It was a decision of the Spanish
Federation to protest. I was not consulted. In my opinion, the judge should
have taken a firm position earlier. When he did not, my federation obviously
felt they had to take a position.
MEN’S 50K RACE WALK Medal Press Conference transcript (Friday, 15 August)
Gold: Yohann Diniz (FRA) - 3:32.33 world record
The race was very crazy. At the start I did not have great rhythm. When I
started the race, I had no idea of walking a world record. I just planned to
follow the Russians, and their tactics are usually to start fast. I began to realize
that I could attack the world record at kilometer 40. I wanted to make a
good race today because I had been in a ‘black hole’ during the preceding
four years of my career.
I started today with some fears because of many injuries. I’m now 36 years old,
but you cannot stop training in this event just because of injuries. My trainers
have adopted a significant amount of swimming for my regimen to maintain
fitness. In the last four days, I have swum about 40 kilometres.
This was my third European 50K walking title, but it likely will be my last one. I
hope to continue to 2016, but that year will be reserved for the Rio Olympics,
after which I plan to stop my career.
(Told that he was timed in 3:00:15 when passing the marathon distance, he
was asked if he might consider running one in the future.) With all of the
swimming that I do, I am more likely to try a triathlon.
(On taking both a French and a Portuguese flag after his win.) My
grandfather was from Portugal and emigrated to France. My roots are in
Portugal, and I train there often.
(Born in Epernay in France’s Champagne region, Diniz is a licensed oenoligist.
When asked what he would drink tonight to celebrate his win and his world
record, he replied ‘Probably some Crozes-Hermitage . . . and also some
champagne!’)
Silver: Matej Toth (SVK) - 3:36.21
It was one of the most exciting races in my career. Many friends are here from
Slovakia to support me. It was tough and fast from the beginning, very fast.
When it slowed a bit in the middle, I was able to walk with my own rhythm. I
was patient. At about 25 or 27 km, I started to become euphoric and enjoy
the race. Of course, at that point the race was only half over.
At 40km, I started to push harder. My coach told me then that it was possible
for me to be second. The last 10km was very euphoric. I started to feel a little
worse on the last lap but fortunately it was the last lap. I enjoyed the last 300m.
I was smiling and thinking about my family.
This was an important medal for Slovakia but especially for me personally, and
also for my brother-in-law who is the chairman of the Slovak Athletics
Federation. I was able to assist him in his work.
Bronze: Ivan Noskov (RUS) - 3:37.41
I still feel a big pain and I’m quite tired after today. It was not very easy, but in
the end I was glad to get a medal. I’m proud to be a part of the Russian
walking group here. It is true that we won medals in all race-walking events,
but I wish more of them had been gold.
WOMEN’S JAVELIN Medal Press Conference transcript (Thursday, 14 August)
Gold: Barbora Spotakova (CZE) - 64.41
It was an awesome feeling to get a gold medal tonight after the birth of my
son last year. However, I’m not really proud of the performance. I don’t know
how to explain it. It was just a bad day.
After so many easy wins at the 66m level this year, you have to worry about
the bad day that will eventually come. You just hope that it won’t be in the
European Championships.
I already had a silver and bronze from past European Championships, so it
was good to finally complete my set with a gold tonight. Somebody upstairs
must like me.
Childbirth didn’t change me much. I stayed active and focused throughout
my pregnancy. My shape came back very fast as a result. Tonight, my son
was at the stadium. I don’t think it was the best idea because he was crying a
lot.
Tonight, the Letzigrund Stadium seemed almost like an entirely different place
than for my Weltklasse appearances. I’ve never had very good Diamond
League competitions here in Zurich, and it was in my mind tonight.
Silver: Tatjana Jelaca (SRB) - 64.21 NR
I had a very good throwing season this year, and I felt I could throw a PB and
national record. This is my first senior medal.
Tonight I gave my supreme effort in the fifth round and achieved my goal of a
national record. I actually was in the lead at that moment, but Barbora
showed what a champion she is moments later by taking over the lead. Still,
this silver medal was good for me and my country. It was inspired by Ivana
Spanovic’s silver in the long jump last night.
Bronze: Linda Stahl (GER) - 63.91
Of course, after having the lead for four rounds, I wanted more. But it just
didn’t happen. The conditions were good in warmup. There was a little rain
but I knew it would pass by the time of the competition.
MEN’S TRIPLE JUMP Medal Press Conference transcript (Thursday, 14 August)
Gold: Benjamin Compaoré (FRA) - 17.46 (European leader)
The climatic conditions were best during the first round, and I think that is why
we all had our best efforts tonight at the very beginning. It’s very satisfying for
me to be the first French triple jump champion at the European
Championships.
I had several passes in the second half of the competition tonight. My body is
not in the best shape at the moment, and I was fearing some injury. But the
triple jump is a crazy event. I realized the risks of not answering the attempts
of the others. I actually was quite worried near the end, but everything came
out well.
Silver: Lyukman Adams (RUS) - 17.09
I’m satisfied with my result. One month ago I was barely walking. I, too, was
surprised by my first jump. During the competition I had some technical issues,
so I’m happy that I was able to get through the night with a medal and
continue the long Russian triple-jumping tradition.
Bronze: Aleksey Fyodorov (RUS) - 17.04
I think that the wind changed after the third round and was negative for most
of the remaining jumps. This definitely affected the competition.
But right now, negative emotions are prevailing in my mind. I came here after
good training and good season statistics, so I was expecting more than I gave.
After some time, however, I think I will look back happily on today.
MEN’S 110 METRES HURDLES Medal Press Conference transcript (Thursday, 14
August)
Gold: Sergey Shubenkov (RUS) - 13.18
My general impressions about tonight? It was very tough. I had a hard
struggle against some very good hurdlers. I wasn’t sure I was going to win until
the very end. I’m super happy with everything. But the nagging goal, as it is
with most good hurdlers, is to run a sub-13.
Silver: William Sharman (GBR)—13.26
I have mixed emotions. In the second half of the race, I lost concentration. I
thought I had already won. I hit a hurdle, and the others came closer. I just
dug in for the last barriers and came away with the silver.
It was a good day, however. In the two races, I registered a PB and also won
a silver medal. It has been my most successful season so far. I just came away
from the Commonwealth Games which had a different atmosphere. There
were good hurdlers there, to be sure, but they mostly were not the ones I
encounter in the Diamond League events. Here in Zurich, I was becoming
reunited with the usual competitors I see during most of the outdoor season.
Bronze: Pascal Martinot-Lagarde (FRA) - 13.28
My race was horrible. I had a good heat and semifinal. My semifinal time
would have won the gold. I touched Sergey in the final and I think it affected
me more than I expected.
But I have no regrets. Injuries kept me out of both the London Olympics and
the Moscow World Championships. This is the first year I have really been in
good shape. In my mind, it is all or nothing. I either win gold or I win nothing.
Still, I was pleased to be rewarded with the bronze.
WOMEN’S POLE VAULT Medal Press Conference transcript (Thursday, 14
August)
Gold: Anzhelika Sidorova (RUS) - 4.65
This night was very important for me because I had a tough season. It was a
fine ending to the season. I did not jump at 4.70 (after I was assured of the
win) because I was so full of emotions. I saw no real purpose in it.
We are now a new generation after Yelena Isinbaeva, so we need to
continue her tradition. Naturally all of us are thinking about the ‘magic’ five
metres.
Silver: Ekaterini Stefanidi (GRE) - 4.60
I had a rough time in warmups because I was still a little tired from the
qualifying round. But it was exciting for me tonight because it was my first
medal as a senior. I had lots of success during my younger years, but it was a
little difficult during those years after I emerged from the junior category.
Right now I’m being coached by Nick Hysong (Sydney pole vault gold
medallist), and it was difficult for me tonight because he could not be here.
Fortunately, Tina Sutej’s coach from Slovenia was able to help out.
What was missing at 4.65? Luck, mostly. On several of the jumps, I thought I
had it. But I have no regrets. I’m not upset. I wasn’t feeling too good today,
and I still jumped 4.60. I can’t complain.
Bronze: Angelina Zhuk-Krasnova (RUS) - 4.60
I was very happy this day happened. I had some difficulties during the season
after having good early competitions. I got ill, and I did not perform well at
the Russian Championships. So, with all I had to go through, I’m happy to be
sitting here tonight.
There was a technical issue at 4.55 and I was awarded a substitute jump.
WOMEN’S 20K RACE WALK Medal Press Conference transcript (Thursday, 14
August)
Gold: Elmira Alembekova (RUS) - 1:27:56
Everything went according to plan. The toughest moment was at the
moment when three of us were all walking together with about 2K remaining.
It’s true that I had success at the junior level, but for some years I was not at
aable to make the senior teams. I don’t want to say too much about the
future, but I will try to stay on my country’s international team in the coming
years.
Silver: Lyudmyla Olyanovska (UKR)—1:28:07
It was also difficult for me when we top three were fighting each other
together in the latter stages. At the end, I was satisfied with the silver. I got
great support from my coach, my teammates and also the people back in
Ukraine.
Our team prepared in the Carpathian mountains of Ukraine and also at the
Olympic Training Center in Koncha-Zaspa.
The last two nights I dreamed only of walking, but it was of ‘very heavy’
walking. Fortunately, that did not happen today. I was happy to have the
support of our 50K walkers today, and I’ll be here tomorrow supporting them in
their competition.
Bronze: Anezka Drahotova (CZE)—1:28:08
This medal is very important to me because it is at the senior level (Drahotova
is still a junior.) The time was not as fast as I had expected.
I’m happy to have this bronze medal, but perhaps I am a little disappointed
not to have a silver (lost out by one second). In the 18th kilometer I was
thinking about the gold, but the last 400-600m were difficult. I looked at my
reflection in a store window and I didn’t see Lyudmyla (Olyanovska), so it was
a surprise when I was passed at the end.
I’ll switch to cycling in the fall. Now I will take some rest here and support my
teammates the rest of the week.
WOMEN’S 20K RACE WALK Medal Press Conference transcript (Thursday, 14
August)
Gold: Elmira Alembekova (RUS) - 1:27:56
Everything went according to plan. The toughest moment was at the
moment when three of us were all walking together with about 2K remaining.
It’s true that I had success at the junior level, but for some years I was not at
aable to make the senior teams. I don’t want to say too much about the
future, but I will try to stay on my country’s international team in the coming
years.
Silver: Lyudmyla Olyanovska (UKR) - 1:28:07
It was also difficult for me when we top three were fighting each other
together in the latter stages. At the end, I was satisfied with the silver. I got
great support from my coach, my teammates and also the people back in
Ukraine.
Our team prepared in the Carpathian mountains of Ukraine and also at the
Olympic Training Center in Koncha-Zaspa.
The last two nights I dreamed only of walking, but it was of ‘very heavy’
walking. Fortunately, that did not happen today. I was happy to have the
support of our 50K walkers today, and I’ll be here tomorrow supporting them in
their competition.
Bronze: Anezka Drahotova (CZE) - 1:28:08
This medal is very important to me because it is at the senior level (Drahotova
is still a junior.) The time was not as fast as I had expected.
I’m happy to have this bronze medal, but perhaps I am a little disappointed
not to have silver (lost out by one second). In the 18th kilometer I was thinking
about the gold, but the last 400-600m were difficult. I looked at my reflection
in a store window and I didn’t see Lyudmyla (Olyanovska), so it was a surprise
when I was passed at the end.
I’ll switch to cycling in the fall. Now I will take some rest here and support my
teammates the rest of the week.
MEN’S 100 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Wednesday, 13 August)
Gold: James Dasaolu (GBR) - 10.06
I would have liked a faster time. But a championship race is about executing
and winning. There were lots of distractions today with the delays.
I didn’t like my start. But I stayed patient and eventually was able to sprint
away from the field.
February was a down period in my career with a hamstring injury which kept
me out of the World Indoors. But here I am as the European Champion. I
cannot be disappointed.
Silver: Christophe Lemaitre (FRA) - 10.13
Today was a bit complicated for me. I had good warmups, but I wasn’t able
to really run my best in the semis and the final. I was disappointed only to win
the silver.
Regarding the change in the track construction here, I have to stay focused
on the race and not worry about the construction of the track.
Bronze: Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (GBR) - 10.22
Like James, I would have liked a faster time, but I’m happy to have a medal.
In these same championships in 2012, I tore my hamstring and it kept me out
of the London Olympics. So it is good to have another go.
We have good cohesion in our British sprint group. We are not out to beat
each other, but we’re trying to beat the world.
MEN’S DISCUS Medal Press Conference transcript (Wednesday, 13 August)
Gold: Robert Harting (GER) - 66.07
It was difficult today because the several delays in the call room served to
destroy my rhythm. Also, most of us found the ring slippery in a strange way.
For me, I had lots of doubts after my first two throws, but I got my rhythm back
again in the third round for my best throw of the day.
After the third round, the rain started again so I passed my fourth throw
because I thought the 66.07 had put me in a good position. In the end I am
happy to win, but not particularly proud to do it with this result. Today, it was
important to win and not throw far.
Silver: Gerd Kanter (EST) - 64.75
It was a strange competition. It was raining during warmups. The ring was
slippery. I almost fell. I wasn’t feeling secure. After yesterday’s prelims, we all
thought that the final would be at an extremely high level. After all I went
through today, I’m happy to be second. It’s my third silver, and I admit that
I’d like to have a different color at some point!
But I know that I have to throw 101% if I’m ever going to beat Robert.
Bronze: Robert Urbanek (POL) - 63.81
When I came to the stadium today I felt ready to fight for a medal, but I didn’t
think it would be possible with this result. I really expected to throw farther.
DECATHLON Medal Press Conference transcript (Wednesday, 13 August)
Gold: Andrei Krauchanka (BLR) - 8616 (world leader)
The competition was very tough and long. It was also difficult because we
were so equal in ability. The 100m was a tough one for me because I was
injured two months ago and could hardly run. I had to be careful not to overexert myself. Long jump and shot put were good, and my PB 2.22 in the HJ
was a big boost. I eased in the 400 to save my leg.
In the hurdles, I felt that my leg was good and that gave me some confidence.
I had a good result in the discus, and I was happy with my pole vault result in
an event that spanned seven hours with all of the waiting. After a PB in the
javelin, I went into the 1500 with confidence. After 800m I strained a muscle in
my leg, and I was essentially limping the last 700m.
Silver: Kevin Mayer (FRA)-8521
It was really hard for me these last two days. In the first day, I felt a little pain in
my upper leg, and I really wasn’t sure I could finish. Fortunately, my physio did
some miracle work for me and I ended up with the silver in my personal best
score.
Bronze: Ilya Shkurenyov (RUS) - 8498
The high jump and javelin were the best events for me. I was quite satisfied
with a bronze medal in a PB score. I felt that I was able to manage all ten
events quite well.
WOMEN’S 100 METRES HURDLES Medal Press Conference transcript
(Wednesday, 13 August)
Gold: Tiffany Porter (GBR) - 12.76
I thought I executed well and I came away with my first major championships
title. It was very important to me. I’ve had medals before, but no gold
medals. Tonight it was also special for me to join the other British athletes—Jo,
Mo and James—in the gold medal rush. I still have some things to work on. I
must admit that I prefer running the semis and the final on the same day. But
you work with what you are given.
Silver: Cindy Billaud (FRA) - 12.79
I made a small mistake at the start, but you never know who the winner will be
until the end. I was patient and made a quick and good recovery. The
weather conditions were the same for all of us. It was not a problem.
Bronze: Cindy Roleder (GER) - 12.82
Yes, I competed in several heptathlons earlier this year, but I decided to
concentrate on the hurdles this year because I still need some work in the
throwing events. We have a good training group in the combined events, but
to be nominated to a German national team I would need a score of 6300
and that isn’t there yet.
Today, I was fighting hard because I knew the bronze was the principal medal
available to me because of the two very good hurdlers who are here with me
on the podium.
WOMEN’S LONG JUMP Medal Press Conference Transcript (Wednesday, 13
August)
Gold: Eloyse Lesueur (FRA) - 6.85
It was a peculiar day today. One jump led to my victory. The weather was
difficult, but the thing I will remember the most is the win.
A next step, of course, is the World Championships in Beijing, but first I will focus
on the European Indoor Championships next year in Prague.
Silver: Ivana Spanovic (SRB) - 6.81
This was my second-ever European Championships, so I’m really satisfied. The
conditions were hard to deal with. Rain and wind were my enemies. This is a
very important medal for Serbia.
Bronze: Darya Klishina (RUS) - 6.65
It is difficult to say what I was expecting here. But it was my first European
Championships, so I am happy with the bronze. I was not happy with the
strong wind and rain . . . and also the cold! I like warmer weather. (Klishina
trains part of the year in Florida.)
This is my first year with a new coach (Loren Seagrave). I still need some time
to adapt. Notwithstanding, I think the season was not bad. I have
confidence that I will improve in the coming year.
WOMEN’S 100 METRES Medal Press Conference transcript (Wednesday, 13
August)
Gold: Dafne Schippers (NED) - 11.12
Happy with my race. The weather? Well, you can’t choose the weather. We
all coped with it.
This win is really good for Netherlands. Athletics is a small sport there and this
will help its visibility. I’ll do the 200 meters (at 10am tomorrow), but next year I
will return to the heptathlon. I was honoured to join Fanny Blankers-Koen as a
Dutch champion in the European 100 metres.
Silver: Myriam Soumaré (FRA) - 11.16
I had a good start and I finished well. I was happy to win the silver. I do prefer
the 200m over the 100m because I know how to manage it. But I hope that
this success will open more doors in the shorter event.
Bronze: Ashleigh Nelson (GBR) - 11.22
I am honoured to have won the first British 100m medal in the last 40 years. To
succeed in such a championships setting, it’s a matter of running consistently.
That is what I focused on with my coach. I came here with the intention of
winning a medal and I achieved that goal with a bronze.
MEN’S 10000 METRES Medal Press Conference Transcript (Wednesday, 13
August)
Gold: Mo Farah (GBR) - 28:08.11
I really prefer the 10K to the 5K. It’s longer and it’s easier to get into the race.
This medal tonight meant a lot because it came so soon after my
Commonwealth Games but even more so because of the health problems I
had at a training camp earlier. I got ill, had a tooth removed and it got
infected. I was in the hospital four days, and they thought it was something
related to my heart. Finally, the doctors had no diagnosis for what my
problems were.
I kept this information private with my family and my coach. I didn’t want my
competition to know how much training I had missed for fear it might backfire
in their race tactics.
Tonight, I wasn’t worried in the last lap. I’ve learned a lot over the years.
Silver: Andy Vernon (GBR) - 28:08.66
Why was I able to win? I guess because I have a bigger chest!
After the 3K, we settled in well and were really just waiting for the end of the
race. The weather? I’ve definitely had worse. I think the enclosed stadium
here kept the wind problems to a minimum tonight.
On the final straight tonight, I tried to creep down on the inside, but the gap
suddenly closed. I had to do a stutter step outside to get some space. Luckily
it paid off in the end.
It’s rewarding to me that now I have had success in both cross-country and on
the track. I started in cross-country, and I always thought I would have more
medal success there. Now I can say that I have a balanced career. There’s
more to come.
Bronze: Ali Kaya (TUR) - 28:08.72
Tonight I was trying to beat the British runners, but I wasn’t able to do it.
Perhaps I will change my tactics in the 5K. [NOTE: All three medallists will meet
again in the 5000m later in the week.]
MEN’S 20K RACE WALK Media Press Conference (Wednesday, 13 August)
Gold: Miguel Angel Lopez (ESP) - 1:19.44
This has been a good start for Spain here (after silver in men’s shot put last
night). The race today was difficult. I controlled my speed up to 10K, and
then increased it to 15K. But for the last two kilometers everyone was
competing well. It was a real fight at the end. Over the last 200 metres, it
seemed as if any of four walkers could have won.
The weather was perfect for us. The rain stopped just before the finish when it
really mattered.
This win was very important for the Spanish walking tradition.
Silver: Aleksandr Ivanov (RUS) - 1:19.45
The course had too many turns and was not optimal for the walkers. However
the weather was good.
After my win in Moscow last year, I was hoping for a win. I need to work more
and go back and analyze my race here. My goal is to succeed next year at
the World Championships and also in Rio.
Regarding my young age at the moment, it’s not important who is young or
who is old. What is important is the work that you do.
Bronze: Denis Strelkov (RUS) - 1:19.46
It was so close at the finish. We really came to a fight at the end. I didn’t
know where I had finished until I saw the official results. (Won bronze by 0.2
seconds over fourth placer.)
We are on the right path. I have improved my PB two times this season. Now
it is time for me to fight for a medal at the World Championships.
MEN’S SHOT PUT Medal Press Conference (Tuesday, 12 August)
Gold: David Storl (GER) - 21.41
I lost my technique after my first throw and could not improve. I had a little
pain in my knee on my second throw. Overall I was not happy with the result
tonight because of my knee and my technique. But, of course, I’m happy
with the win. I’m already looking forward to the next European
Championships.
(On his missing Olympic gold medal). The World Championships in 2015 is the
next step to the Olympics. For my other goal of a 22-metre throw, perhaps
that will still come this season in Thun.
Silver: Borja Vivas (ESP) - 20.86
I always dreamed about a medal in a big competition, and I’m very proud to
be the first Spaniard (man or woman) to achieve one in a European
Championships throwing event. I really didn’t think I could get second ahead
of Majewski. It’s true that my technique and strength both improved this year,
but it was really my mental approach that made the big difference.
It’s true that my past performances outside of Spain have not measured up to
my marks in domestic meetings. I hope that tonight is the start of good
international competitions fo me.
Bronze: Tomasz Majewski (POL) - 20.83
I am a ‘little happy’. I actually was expecting a silver medal but it didn’t
happen this time. At my age, I simply have to be pleased with a bronze
medal. I may compete in Amsterdam (in 2016). But after Rio, I think I will start
my ‘happy retirement’.
Tonight wasn’t really bad, but I did not feel had had one really good throw.
It’s true that I was the only one of those on the podium to have six legal throws,
but unfortunately there is no medal for that.
Storl is the man of the present. It would be great to beat him when we meet
later this season in Thun.
WOMEN’S 10000 METRES Medal Press Conference (Tuesday, 12 August)
Gold: Jo Pavey (GBR) - 32:22.39
After Glasgow (bronze in Commonwealth 5K), I knew it was going to get tricky
to combine the two Championships in a short time. I thought the 5K at the
Commonwealth would help my sharpness, and I’m pleased with the outcome.
The whole thing seems surreal this year. I didn’t know I would qualify for any
championships after childbirth last year. I was still breast-feeding in April. But
I’m happy to have a supportive husband. I’ve been a busy mom, it gives me
endurance.
Tonight, my entire family was in the stadium. Even my 11-month-old child
stayed attentive throughout my race. It’s her first time to see me in a major
championship.
The race tonight seemed quite long to me, really. I tried to keep focus. As the
race wound down, I told myself ‘This is how a 10K is supposed to feel at the
end.’ I was happy to win.
This season has inspired me to keep running. I’m not going to retire soon. But
I’ll take one day at a time. Rio is still in sight. It’s ironic that my running has
allowed me to have more time with my family. I’ve been lucky with that. I’ve
got my kids now. I don’t need to worry about any of those pregnancy breaks
in the coming years, so I can focus on running.
Yes, I do plan to do the 5K here later this week. Tomorrow I probably will
hardly be able to walk. But after winning the 10K, I can go out and enjoy the
5K.
Silver: Clémence Calvin (FRA) - 32:23.58
This was only my second 10K on a track, so as I was running tonight, I was
gaining experience with each lap. I was patient with myself. When I decided
to go at the end, I had confidence. The next time, I hope it’s gold and not
silver.
When Jo went into her final kick tonight, I tried to stay in contact. I was not
successful today but I hope for the future. I will try more track races, from 1500
metres on up, to get experience. I’m still young (24) and it was my goal to be
in the podium tonight.
Bronze: Laila Traby (FRA) - 32:26.03
(Also her second 10K race). I was not surprised with my medal because I was
well prepared. Earlier in my career I had a break when I had children. After
that I emigrated from Morocco to begin representing France. I knew I had a
good finish tonight, and it brought me the bronze.