More controversy, less cutthroat

Unlike in the U.S., Canada’s Olympic trials aren't the only thing that determines who goes to Paris

- KERRY GILLESPIE

Canada's Sarah Mitton, who had a 20.68-metre, world-leading throw in May, said she is more focused on being ready for Paris than Friday’s qualifier.

MONTREAL Sarah Mitton hasn’t given herself a break from her long, hard shot put workouts in the days leading up to the Canadian track and field trials for the Paris Olympics.

Andre De Grasse is planning on skipping the 200-metre event at trials — the distance he’s Olympic champion in — to focus on getting his starts and speed in the 100 back.

Those decisions may leave them better prepared to deliver medals in Paris, but they couldn’t happen at the U.S. trials, which also taking place this week. At Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore., an athlete has to be ready to produce their absolute best in their event to make the podium at trials and be named to the Paris team.

That rigid qualification system has already resulted in upsets in running and throwing events. Top of the list is American record holder and 800-metre Olympic champion Athing Mu who got tripped up in the final and now won’t compete in the event in Paris.