THE SIDELINES : Backley Wins Javelin Throw

Steve Backley of Britain won the javelin throw at the NEC International track and field meet at Olympic Park today but failed in his attempt to break the world record.

Backley, who won the gold medal at last week’s Commonwealth Games, threw 279 feet, 9 inches, well short of the world record of 287-7 held by Jan Zelezny of Czechoslovakia.

New Zealand’s John Walker, who fell in the 1,500-meter final at the Commonwealth Games, won the 3,000 meters with a time of 7:51.31. Compatriot Kerry Rodger was second in 7:52.74.