Kellie Harrington will not compete at this years world championships after suffering an injury while training for the upcoming tournament.
While the injury isn't serious, her rehab will not be complete by the time the championships kick off on May 6th.
“I’m devastated not to be competing at the Worlds," Harrington said.
"Training was going great, and I know I was the woman to beat in Turkey but– timing is everything, and there just isn’t enough time to heal before boxing starts.
"I have to prioritise my long-term health and fitness. Qualifying for Paris is still the goal. I’ll be rooting for all our Team Ireland boxers at the Worlds – it’s a strong, skilful team."
Harrington returned to the ring in February winning the 73rd Annual Strandja Memorial Tournament in Bulgaria. This was her first event since winning Olympic Gold in Tokyo last year.
Team Ireland Head Coach Zauri Antia says “Kellie was preparing so well for these championships. It is very disappointing that she can’t compete.
"But Kellie is right – her long-term fitness, and qualifying for Paris are the most important things.
"She will return home to Dublin to rehab her injury and return to training when she is fit again. We are bringing a talented team of boxers to the Women’s World Championships, and I know every Team Ireland boxer has Kellie’s support”.
Harrington won gold in the lightweight division at the 2018 world championships. Harrington was unable to defend her crown at the 2019 World Championships, as she missed out with a thumb injury.
Team Ireland Squad
48kg Shannon Sweeney, St.Anne’ BCs, Mayo
50kg Caitlin Fryers, Immaculata BC, Belfast
52kg Carly McNaul, Ormeau Road BC, Belfast
54kg Niamh Fay, Phoenix of Ballyboughal, Dublin
57kg: Michaela Walsh: Emerald BC, Belfast
63kg Amy Broadhurst: St.Bronagh’s ABC, Rostrevor
66kg Kaci Rock, Enniskerry BC, Wicklow
70kg Lisa O’Rourke, Olympic BC, Galway
75kg Aoife O’Rourke: Olympic BC, Galway
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