This is Anthony Famiglietti 2 x Olympian
Let me start by saying I do not think there should be an appeal process. You don't hit the marks you don't hit the marks. It should be a level playing field. I have always felt there should be no heats of the steeple and just a final. It is a dangerous event where runners are often injured by racing events so close together. Perhaps only the top 15-20 times within that period Jan 1 - June 18th of that season should be allowed to race in one final. The race would then be run faster, athletes would show up healthier to the Olympics and this appeals process would not exist. Special treatment due to politics or back door deals is not acceptable. After this week it is clear there is no level playing field.
Here is my experience with the appeals process and why I'm speaking up.
Let me clearly state that I have talked to the appeals committee representative who said definitively that my appeal was denied. I talked to them last week and then to the representative last night to initiate the final process. I called again today after hearing no response. The committee rep that I spoke to last night and appealed to, who also picked up again today said, "He didn't know who I was and asked why I was calling." After I told him why I was calling, he told me the people in charge of the decision were, "in a meeting." Then when I told him I'd wait, he got off the phone for 15 seconds returned and said, "Yes your appeal has been denied." I said, " I was not notified of this at all". He said, "I called you last night but I think I called the wrong number" I must have dialed the last digit incorrectly, a 0 instead of a 3." To which I said. I thought you didn't know who I am".
Everyone on here needs to realize that this topic is being brought about for you. Not for me. I'v accepted my fate and have achieved quite a lot already. How I was treated as a 2 x Olympian during this process was deplorable. I can only imagine how they treat new emerging elites.
USATF tries to represent itself as an organization that provides services to American track and field athletes in an effort to develop their ability and represent our country at the highest level. I'm not sure of their specific motto. Unfortunately, it seems the sponsors involved that pay USATF are directing executives decisions, and it looks to extend beyond this particular issue into other realms such as uniforms, sponsorship restriction etc etc. They broke their own rules here in one instance and enforced them in another on a top athlete. Why would they do this? THAT IS THE QUESTION. Allowing an athlete entry into a race a week prior to declarations shows no respect for any of the athletes on that 5k list and shows special treatment.
In the past USATF and other organizations could bully or ignore athletes into submission. The folks here and out there (you and I) let these things happen due to lack of information or misinformation. This topic should be addressed and changes should be made to help others in instances where these situations occur and are clear cut. I have been put into a position many of you have been in for years. I'm trying to stand up to be your voice here and stop this nonsense.
PS I'm a huge Alan Webb fan. I have talked to him often over the years and I hope he races and races well to make the team. Good luck Alan!