'Vodka vaulter' to be quizzed

THE IAAF will ask Russian high jumper Ivan Ukhov to explain his apparently drunk appearance at the Athletissima Grand Prix.

The 22-year-old Ukhov failed with each attempt to clear the bar before being asked to stop competing on Tuesday at the Swiss meet.

Rival high jumpers later reported that the Russian had been drinking vodka and Red Bull during the competition.

Meet organisers refused to pay Ukhov's expenses and have been asked to supply video evidence to the International Association of Athletics Federations.

"We will for sure ask for an explanation from the athlete about his behaviour and ask that it is not repeated in the future," said IAAF spokesman Nick Davies.

Alcohol is not classed as a performance-enhancing substance and is not formally prohibited in athletics competition.

Ukhov was European Junior Champion in 2005 and has personal best jumps of 2.39 metres indoors and 2.33 outdoors.