S2:E13. On Track (and Field) for a Better World

Emergency on Planet Sport

Track and Field is our focus on Episode 13 as we hear from two current World Champions and Bob Ramsak, Head of Sustainability at World Athletics, joins the pod. This is a sport experiencing significant impact due to changes to our climate; the marathon at the Tokyo Olympics not only changed start time but completely moved its location, while US trials had entire sessions cancelled because of rising temperatures in Eugene, Oregon. As guardians of a truly global sport, World Athletics is well aware of the threat in certain regions and has moved swiftly to engage its athletes and step up its licensing requirements. On this episode, we hear from a number of athletes who are making their voices heard on the most important topic of all, the future of the planet, including reigning world champions Tobi Amusan and Kelsey-Lee Barber. Bob talks about how bids for the 2027 World Championships will need to hit certain "gold standards" of sustainability and the recent attempts at climate communication education around its Diamond League meetings. Jonathan and Melissa also find time to reflect on the first week of the FIFA World Cup and the disappointing lack of protest among the competing nations. Plus Marmite Toast.

00.00. Jonathan and Melissa discuss the first week of the FIFA World Cup and the lack of protest, with an honourable mention for Germany.

05:00. We introduce our guest on the pod; Bob Ramsak, Head of Sustainability for World Athletics.

17:30. Contributions from Kelsey-Lee Barber (Australia) and Tobi Amusan (Nigeria), two current World Champions.

21:30. Contributions from Sam Matiss (USA) and Ernest John Obiena (Philippines).

26:30. Contributions from Hugues Fabrice Zango (Burkina Faso) and Eliza McCartney (New Zealand).