Ben Johnson Is Sued by His Agent

Sprinter Ben Johnson has been sued for breach of contract and damages of $425,000 by his Canadian agent.

Toronto-based Communique Ltd. negotiated Canadian contracts for Johnson, who was stripped of the gold medal he won in the 100 meters at the Seoul Olympics for taking steroids.

The U.S. companies Heritage Sports, Heritage Group Inc. and Diversified Equities Ltd., which hold the runner’s worldwide rights, are also being sued.

Communique has also asked a Canadian court to freeze the runner’s trust fund, which is held by the Canadian Track and Field Assn. The size of that fund has not been disclosed.

“There was money owed from these contracts and we feel we are entitled to our fee,” said Glen Calkins, Communique vice-president.