Toe woe scuppers Radcliffe's London bid - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Toe woe scuppers Radcliffe's London bid

Paula Radcliffe has been forced to withdraw from next month's Flora London Marathon after breaking the second toe on her right foot.

The world marathon record holder would have been going for a fourth London title in the April 26 race but has now been forced out after suffering the injury at her altitude training base in Albuquerque.

Radcliffe said: "I am desperately disappointed that I have to pull out of this year's race, especially as I was looking forward to running in front of the amazing crowds of spectators in London that always offer such great support.

She added: "I am considering surgery to get myself totally healthy as soon as physically possible and ultimately prevent the bunion causing any future problems."

Radcliffe triumphed in the race in 2002, 2003 and 2005 and her absence will be sorely felt by the race organisers.

Flora London Marathon race director Dave Bedford said: "This is a major blow for Paula. I know how much she wanted to run here this year but luck just does not seem to be on her side.

"Paula's priority must now be to get fully fit hopefully for the World Championships and we wish her all the best for a speedy recovery.

"Even without Paula, however, the elite women's field for April 26 is still one of the strongest we've ever had in London and I am sure the race will be a superb spectacle."

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