Singapore marathoner Mok Ying Ren is withdrawing from the men's marathon event at the Commonwealth Games, succumbing to the shin injury that has prevented him for running for the past few weeks.
The 26-year-old was forced to make the decision after experiencing sharp pains in his right shin while training in Glasgow where the Games are being held.
After consulting with doctors and officials, Mok - a trained doctor himself - said he had no choice but to withdraw to avoid long-term damage. "It's clear that I have to withdraw," he told The Straits Times. "But it's a very tough decision to make."
The 2013 SEA Games champion was slated to be Singapore's first man to compete in the marathon at the Commonwealth Games.
"I did cross training as an alternative and was quietly positive of my chances when I arrived, as I was not feeling any pain," he said in a released statement. "Unfortunately, the pain recurred after a couple of easy runs. I believe my body is telling me that it is not ready for 42km of pounding and I would risk long-term consequences if I do proceed."
