Doyle ‘gutted’ after title defence is ended by injury

Eilidh Doyle will not defend her 400m hurdles title at this weekend’s British Championships as she continues to manage an injury.

The 31-year-old from Kinross has had the problem since claiming bronze at the World Indoor Championships in March.

Doyle now has until July 22 to prove her fitness for selection for the European Championships in Berlin in August.

“I’m really gutted to not be able to defend my title,” said the former Perth Grammar School teacher.

“The British Championships has always been a really important event to me and is something I always factor into my race schedule.

“It’s always a really proud moment to stand on the podium and be crowned British champion.

“That said, I’m really looking forward to being there in person and taking the rare opportunity to experience it as a spectator.

“The last few weeks have gone well – I’ll continue to work hard during my rehabilitation and am confident I’ll be in good shape should I gain selection for Berlin this summer.”

Meanwhile Chris O’hare hopes Scotsmen can again take the top three positions in the men’s 1,500m.

O’hare, Josh Kerr and Jake Wightman won gold, silver and bronze respectively last year in Birmingham, which also hosts this year’s event.

“It is going to be very exciting, that is for sure,” he told the BBC.

Eilidh Doyle won’t compete at the British Championships.