BRITISH PARALYMPIC ATHLETE Kadeena Cox has had her sports funding suspended after she chose to participate in the upcoming Channel 4 programme, ‘The Jump’.
The celebrity show, which sees participants engage in winter sports, has attracted criticism in the past after some of the contestants suffered injuries.
Retired gymnast Beth Tweddle required surgery after fracturing vertebrae during training for the show, while swimmer Rebecca Adlington suffered a shoulder injury. Sprinting icon Linford Christie also sustained a hamstring injury during his time on the show.
Cox, who developed multiple sclerosis following a stroke in 2014, made history at the Rio Paralympics by becoming the first British Paralympian to win gold medals in multiple events at a single Games since 1984.
In light of the risks involved with The Jump, British Athletics have decided to withdraw Cox’s funding for the duration of the show, with the support of British Cycling.
It’s understood that both organisations advised her not to take part, but have given her permission to make her own decision on the matter.
In a statement, they said: ”Due to the nature of the activities on the show, the athlete cannot continue to be supported by the WCPP (World Class Performance Programme) during this time.
“Her UK Sport funding will be suspended until she returns to training and proves her fitness.”
British cycling added: ”Kadeena enjoyed a fantastic 2016, making history by winning Paralympic gold in both athletics and cycling, and we respect her decision to take some time away from the sport to pursue the opportunities that her success has afforded her.”
Channel 4 stresses they have conducted a “thorough review of safety procedures” ahead of this year’s series of The Jump.
Other celebrity athletes expected to take part this year include recently retired British cyclist Bradley Wiggins.
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