Athletics: Backley in high-profile return
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.STEVE BACKLEY will make his javelin comeback on Friday, after nearly a year out with injury, in one of the best fields possible. Throwing against him in the Grand Prix meeting at Crystal Palace will be Jan Zelezny, the Olympic champion, Seppo Raty, the Olympic silver medallist, and Kimmo Kinnunen, the world champion.
Backley, who has had only six throwing sessions since winning a bronze medal in Barcelona, avoided returning at a low-key meeting. 'I'm the kind of athlete who needs to compete against the best,' he said. 'I've been throwing over 80 metres in training and I wouldn't be coming out now if I didn't think I could do myself justice. It's too early to talk about the World Championships.' Backley still needs surgery on his shoulder.
Also on Friday's bill are Steve Cram and Matthew Yates, racing in the 1500 metres against Abdi Bile, of Somalia, and chasing a World Championship qualifying time. Linford Christie meets Leroy Burrell in the 100m for the first time this season, and David Grindley returns after a knee injury against Quincy Watts in the 400m.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments