Changing Time

Canada has lofty ambitions in the sport of Track & Field at the 2012 Olympics. They have set a target of winning two Olympic medals in 2012. Dylan Armstrong appears to be a strong bet fresh off a silver medal performance at the Championships and being crowned shot put champion in this year's Diamond League. But after Dylan the cupboard appears empty.

Gary Reed has retired, as has Tyler Christopher. Adam Kunkel - a threat for a world championship medal back in 2007 hasn't been able to to find his form since tearing his achilles tendon some 4 years ago. Perdita, a fan favourite in the sport has relocated to Calgary, but she is on the downside of her career after failing to final in Daegu. Pryscilla Lopes Schlepp is hoping to return in 2012 after having a baby this year but only time will tell if she can regain her form.

With many of Canada's best athletes in the sport either retired or nearing retirement it is becoming evident that Track & Field is on the downswing here in Canada. In Daegu, only 3 Canadian athletes qualified for a final (Dylan included), and the names that once dotted the sports landscape - Bailey, Chalmers, McKoy, Williams are almost absent from the sporting scene here in 2012.

And despite it all, the cast of characters who lead the program remains largely unchanged for the past dozen years. Athletics Canada might it be time for a change in leadership?