Robertson

The Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA) has cleared the air on Josef Robertson's dismissal from the World Junior track and field team.

The team left the island last week but Robertson, the second fastest 400m hurdler in the world this year, was dropped for disciplinary reasons.

According to the JAAA, Robertson was left off the team because he failed to attend physiotherapeutic sessions, as well as his violent outburst at camp, which was witnessed by teammates.

According to JAAA executive member Alfred Francis, who was given the responsibility to speak on this issue, Robertson, the national junior 400m hurdles record holder, was given every opportunity to suitably address those points, but failed.

FULLY ENDORSED

Following the JAAA's executive meeting on August 9, Francis said: "The management team has taken the decision to suspend Robertson from the team and the JAAA executive has fully endorsed it.

"We recognise that he is going through a difficult period and the JAAA will assist him during this time of difficulty.

Robertson, who was a strong contender for a medal at the World Juniors, said he did go to the offices of the physio.

"I went to the physio and she wasn't there. The receptionist could not tell me when she was coming, so I called the manager, Genevieve Reid, and told her about it," he said.

As for the outburst, Robertson said: "I would not consider it a violent outburst, but more of a disagreement with somebody."

He said he is now looking forward to next season.

"I am looking forward to a next season. Next season you have World Championships, I am looking forward to that.

Also he added: "I have a slight soreness in my hamstring which I am looking to get full over by next season.

He said his expectation, though was "to make the final in my event (400m hurdles) at World Juniors and run my personal best."

- Anthony Foster