10 December 2013

Jack Green, the 2011 European Under 23 400m hurdles champion has announced he will not take his place on the World Class Performance Programme in 2014.

The Olympic semi finalist has communicated to Performance Director Neil Black his wish to take time out from the sport in order to recuperate from some health issues.

Green said:

“Those close to me and working with me know I have been suffering with depression over the last year, and despite a full recovery, I believe a break is necessary for my mental health.

“Athletics at the top level requires an application that I had, disappointingly, not been able to give it in recent times, which made life both on and off the track extremely difficult for me and I need to step back for a period of time. 

“I wanted to be open and honest about my reasons for taking this break. I have been lucky to be so well supported during this time by the British Athletics support staff, but I realise this can be a difficult subject matter and if me being honest offers anyone else some support then that can only be a good thing.

“I’d like to thank the British Athletics performance team including my coach Malcolm Arnold for their support and understanding leading up to this difficult decision.” 

British Athletics Performance Director Neil Black added:

“We fully support Jack in what has obviously been a tough decision and I’m really pleased that he has been open about his reasons. We look forward to seeing Jack back in the sport once he has had enough time to recuperate.”