• World Athletics Championships

Farah backs London for 2017 Championships

ESPN staff
September 21, 2011
Mo Farah kisses his gold medal © PA Photos
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Mo Farah has thrown his weight behind London's bid for the 2017 World Athletics Championships, hoping he will be able to run the marathon on home turf.

Farah, who claimed gold and silver medals in the 5000m and 10000m respectively in this year's championships in Daegu, believes home support could give him the boost he needs to succeed in the marathon - the event he sees himself competing in, as he will be 34 at the time.

London is up against Doha, in Qatar, for the right to host the championships.

"If we got 2017 it would be amazing. I don't think I'd be competing on the track but I'd be competing on the road," Farah said. "Twenty six miles is quite a long way but if I had the home crowd and everyone got behind me, it would make a big difference."

With disappointing crowds on display in Daegu, Farah is confident a repeat would be avoided if the championships did come to the English capital.

"It's really important that 2017 happens in London. I've competed at Crystal Palace and it's always sold out. We'll get some amazing support," he added.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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