Injury forces McConnell out of 400m relay

Published on Friday 22 August 2008 14:13

GLASGOW'S Lee McConnell will not go for gold in the women's 4x400m relay after suffering an untimely leg injury.

The 29-year-old, who landed a relay bronze at last year's World Championships in Osaka, had been expected to take her place in the line-up alongside individual 400m gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu, Nicola Sanders and Vicki Barr.

But UK Athletics officials revealed the veteran Shaftesbury Barnet star had suffered a tear in the quad muscle in her right leg and would be unavailable for the race.

The injury was picked up during McConnell's second round run in the 400m and Team GB officials revealed the Scot is already receiving intensive treatment for the injury.

Athletics Team Leader Dave Collins said: "It is a big disappointment for Lee.

"She has made a huge contribution to the success of our women's 4x400m relay squad in recent years.

"She has our sympathy and as ever, UK Athletics will work closely with the athlete to assist with her return to full fitness."