Henkel fails in Olympic bid

Henkel fails in Olympic bid

Germany's Olympic high-jump champion Heike Henkel yesterday failed in her last chance to achieve the Olympic qualifying standard, virtually ensuring that she will not defend her title in Atlanta. Henkel, who has not cleared 2.0m since having a baby after the Barcelona Games, jumped only 1.90m at the German championships in Cologne, four centimetres short of the standard. Henkel's trainer said he would now discuss with the 32- year-old whether she should apply for special dispensation to compete in Atlanta as reigning champion. However, Henkel, who admits her priorities have changed, held out little hope. "To be honest, it's over," she said.