RADCLIFFE TO MISS LONDON MARATHON
British long-distance runner Paula Radcliffe has withdrawn from the London Marathon because of a toe problem.
The 34-year-old was hoping for her fourth title in the capital but has pulled out after picking up a toe injury in her right foot during altitude training in New Mexico.
Instead of competing in event on the April 13, Radcliffe will use the time to recover ahead of the Olympic Games in August.
"I am desperately disappointed that I have to pull out of this year's race," said Radcliffe.
"I love running in London and this race would have been the perfect test for me before the Olympic Games."
Radcliffe, who holds the world record for the marathon distance, had previously won the event in 2002, 2003 and 2005 and would have been hotly tipped to add to add to November's New York Marathon victory.
Radcliffe described the injury as "minor" but wanted to be in the best shape for London.
"In marathon training there are no short cuts and there is simply not enough time to be in the shape I want to be in to run well in London," she added.
"Now I must concentrate on being as well prepared as possible for Beijing."
Race director David Bedford said he understood Radcliffe's reasons for pulling out.
"Of course, it is a major blow to lose Paula from this year's race but we realise that her priority in 2008 is to be in peak condition for the Olympic Games and we wish her all the best for a speedy return to full fitness," he said.
"Even without Paula we will still have a very strong international women's field on 13 April and I am sure the race will be as exciting as ever."
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