Szabo elected to Romanian Athletics Federation

Former Olympic 5000m champion Gabriela Szabo has been elected federal secretary of the Romanian Athletics Federation (FRA).

The 29-year-old, who retired in May after winning the 3000 Olympic title as well as three World Championship gold medals, beat off competition from high jumper Monica Iagar to land the post.

“I wanted to respect myself and the people from the jury, and I studied for two weeks,” said Szabo after hearing that she had been selected by the interview panel.

Iagar, who will retire from the sport this summer, revealed that she would not contest the decision as she weighs up her options for a career after athletics.

“I will not challenge it. The post isn’t so important to me, but I wanted to prove that champions like me and Gabriela don’t need any favouritism to get a job,” Iagar said.