The Encyclopedia of Athletics -Compiled by Melvyn Watman Foreword by Harold Abrahams

Much has happened in the development of athletics since the second edition of this encyclopedia was published in 1967. Two Olympic Games have come and gone; dozens of world records have been created; new techniques, like the “Fosbury Flop ” in high jumping, have come into being; 44 more and more countries are engaging in international competition and throwing up athletes of world class; the East German sporting “miracle ” has taken place; drugs-mainly in the shape of anabolic steroids-regrettably have become more widely used in the sport; a professional circuit has been established in the United States; all-weather track surfaces have become commonplace; women have been allowed to race at 3.000 metres and 400 metres hurdles.There are changes, to, in this book. The historical data re- tained from previous editions have been brought up to date, and there are many fresh entries. The 130 short biographies scattered throughout the book include all the 1972 Olympic champions and most of the current world record holders. The work has been made more international in scope, new sections include American champions and European indoor champions.