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Athletics

Radcliffe confident of Olympic success despite injury

17/05/2008

Paula Radcliffe is confident of achieving success in the marathon at the Beijing Olympics, despite having picked up a hip injury.

Her agent, Sian Masterton, confirmed the long-distance runner had sustained the injury and was now resting in the hope of being ready for the Games in August.

Although an initial scan showed no signs of a problem a second scan has now revealed that the gluteus minimus muscle has come away from the bone.

The marathon world record holder is now using crutches to minimise the amount of pressure that is being put on the injury.

Masterton said: "Obviously this is not ideal in an Olympic year but Paula is upbeat and positive that by resting for a week or two now she will give herself the best chance of being ready for Beijing."

Radcliffe has not raced since November last year when she claimed victory in the New York marathon.

The 34-year-old was due to run in this year's London marathon but was forced to withdraw after picking up a foot injury while training in America for the race.

Radcliffe was the favourite for the marathon title at the last Olympics in Athens but failed to finish the race. Since then she has made it her goal to win gold in Beijing.

The Beijing Games begin in 81 days time, giving Radcliffe little time to recover and prepare for the race.

A third scan on the injury is scheduled for next week.