ATHLETICS: Ma's secret recipe is a good beating
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.ATHLETICS
The Chinese coach Ma Junren has admitted that he sometimes beat members of his lite running squad which fell apart last year when the world 10,000 metres champion and record holder, Wang Junxia, led a walk-out after allegations that Ma had stolen team winnings and abused his athletes in brutal training sessions.
"I must admit my management style was too simple sometimes. I would scold them or beat them when they were lazy or disobedient. But I only did it for their own good," Ma said yesterday. "If we are not prepared to suffer bitterness how can we win world championships?"
Ma has sought public sympathy in China by recounting his many recent personal problems. These include the death of his father, a car smash that put him in a wheelchair for a while, and lately, appendicitis.
While admitting he pushed his athletes too far, Ma's defence is his sense of patriotic duty. "I, Ma Junren, have many shortcomings but I have high regard for the glory of my country."
He conceded that an incident in which he hurled Liu Dong's baggage out of a hotel fifth-floor window in a fit of temper was "a mistake".
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments