Athletics

Palestinian sportsmen will take part in the Olympic Games for the first time, the Palestinian Olympic Committee announced yesterday. The committee said it would send three athletes - two runners and a boxer - to Atlanta next month.

Linford Christie 36, arrived at Hendon yesterday prepared to compete for Thames Valley Harriers in the Guardian Insurance British League First Division match but was told there was no room for him. Jim Ripley, the team manager, said he was not aware that Christie was available for the match. There was a setback for the Olympic team hopes of the long jumper Fred Salle of Belgrave, who pulled a calf muscle on his opening attempt. Bill Laws, the Belgrave team manager, said Sale was doubtful for the trials.