Elvan Could Rival Sureyya in Athens

Upon their return to Turkey last night Elvan’s trainer Ertan Hatipoglu said that they were very happy since they allowed Turkish people to experience a historic moment in athletics. "We hope we will be the Olympic champion in the 5000m. Elvan has great ability, so it is possible for her to run in other distances as well. If not the 10,000 meters, she will certainly run in the 1500 meters and we will present the Turkish public a second medal.

Sureyya Ayhan Kop and her trainer Yucel Kop meanwhile continue their preparations for the Olympics in Kayseri. They acknowledged that they pleased with Elvan’s victory. The Kops know that Elvan has expressed interest in running the 1500 meters and said: "We wish we could compete in the final with 12 Turkish athletes. This would bring great happiness." Elvan posted a 1500m time of 3.58 in Moscow last month, which was very close to European Champion and world runner up Suraya Ayhan’s time of 3.55.