IRELAND’S BRENDAN BOYCE has been forced to withdraw from tomorrow’s 50km race walk at the IAAF World Championship in London.
The Donegal man suffered a Grade 1 hamstring tear on Tuesday and, despite every effort, is not fit to start.
It leaves former world champion Rob Heffernan as Ireland’s only representative in the 50km race, with Alex Wright contesting the shorter 20km race.
“It’s with massive sadness that I have to announce my withdrawal from tomorrow’s 50km walk,” Boyce confirmed on Saturday afternoon.
“My general preparations have brought me to a new level in sport and (I) was physically and mentally prepared to go and legitimately compete for a medal. However on Tuesday (I) picked up a strain to my right hamstring.
Never one to give up without a fight, (I) tried everything I could to accelerate the healing but this morning despite being able to train, I know in myself that it won’t be possible to do myself or my country justice.
“I hope everyone who supports me and all those that have travelled to London can understand this decision. It’s been the hardest of my life.”
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