IRELAND'S KELLIE Harrington will not be boxing at the Women’s World Championships in Istanbul next month due an injury.
The Portland row native picked it during a training camp in Italy, reports RTE.
It is not expected to keep the Dubliner out for long, but she will not make the event which starts on 6th May.
This comes after Harrington won gold at the 73rd Strandja Memorial Tournament in February.
Tokyo Olympic champion, Kellie Harrington, won’t contest the Women's World Championships.
She's sustained an injury during #TeamIreland’s training camp in Assisi, Italy. Whilst the injury isn’t grave, rehab won’t be completed in time for her to compete.https://t.co/KikIMf2vR9 https://t.co/X12CuP78kV pic.twitter.com/JfHWhhanUX— IABA (@IABABOXING) April 28, 2022
Speaking about the injury, the 32-year-old said.
"I’m devastated not to be competing at the Worlds," said Harrington.
"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 prioritize 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."
Team Ireland Head Coach Zauri Antia said: "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".
