Lasers at London Olympics for modern pentathlon after trial

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Laser guns will replace air pistols in the modern pentathlon at the 2012 London Olympics after the technology was debuted at the ongoing Youth Olympics in Singapore.

The new technology will reduce the cost of shooting by two thirds in the sport and the improved safety of the event could mean new venues are used.

"We will have laser shooting for the London Games. Based on this new technology, all countries in the world can compete in our sport," Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne (UIPM) President Klaus Schormann told the Youth Olympic Games website (www.singapore2010.sg) on Monday.

"We can hold competitions in parks and even shopping malls. Safety issues will no longer be a big concern."

The new laser system has received royal approval with Prince Albert of Monaco, also honorary president of UIPM, pointing out the practical benefits of the change.

"I think the laser shooting is a great improvement to the sport." he said

"They (the laser guns) will also be easier to carry around, and to take on aeroplanes. It's the way of the future."

(Writing by Patrick Johnston in Singapore; Editing by Peter Rutherford; to query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)

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