THE SIDELINES : Aouita Future Running in Doubt

Said Aouita, who holds world records in the four distance events, may never run competitively again, according to the Morrocan’s former coach.

Enrico Dionisi, who coached Aouita to set world marks in the 1,500 meters (3:29.46), 2,000 (4:50.81), 3,000 (7:29.45) and the 5,000 (12:58.39), feels the runner must quit after twice undergoing leg surgery.

The saddest memory for Aouita is failing to win a gold medal in the Olympics in Seoul in 1988. He left out a sure-fire gold in the 5,000 and, trying to show unpredecented versatility, instead went for the 800, and the 1,500. He came up with just a bronze medal in the 800. Injury forced Aouita to abandon the 1,500.