26 June 2009

Marathon runner Mara Yamauchi (Harrow AC/Second Wind AC) has withdrawn from the Aviva Great Britain and Northern Ireland team for August’s IAAF World Championships in Berlin due to a foot injury.

The 35-year-old was officially selected earlier this month following a career-best performance in April’s London Marathon where she finished 2nd in a new PB of 2:23.12. She picked up a right foot injury shortly after resuming training in Japan following the London marathon.

Yamauchi said: “After thinking it over very carefully, unfortunately I have come to the conclusion that I will not be able to race competitively in Berlin and have decided to withdraw. This was a difficult decision to make as it is always a huge honour to race in a GB vest and represent your country.

“I have been doing everything possible to help my foot to recover quickly. Although it has improved, I have concluded that there is insufficient time left to enable me to prepare properly for such a high-quality race and reach the start line in 100% top shape.

“I have made a big breakthrough this year and was looking forward to the World Championships with great optimism. I will now concentrate on returning to full health, and look forward to racing again once I am back at my best. I wish my team-mates all the very best in Berlin.”

Charles van Commenee, UKA Head Coach said: “Mara is an athlete of great talent, maturity and professionalism. She was also a true medal contender for Berlin and as such we will miss her presence. UKA will work closely with her to be sure she is getting all the support possible to help her return to full health in the near future.”

Yamauchi was 6th in the Olympic Games in Beijing and 9th in the 2007 World Championships in Osaka , Japan.