Australian marathoner Sinead Diver was compelled to withdraw from the Paris marathon after experiencing severe cramps, it has been disclosed.
The 47-year-old, who holds the Australian record, entered the race with high expectations following a commendable 10th place finish in Tokyo three years ago.
Australian high performance chief Andrew Faichney has provided details on why the oldest competitor in the race had to withdraw.
“I am confident in the decision for her to race; she was cleared to run by both the team camp medical staff and herself,” Faichney said. “Today’s issues had nothing to do with her plantar fasciitis in her right foot. She experienced cramps in both quads that began before the race. Clearly, the cramping was severe for her to have to withdraw so early.”
The timing of her withdrawal was especially frustrating, as Lisa Weightman, a four-time Olympian who had unsuccessfully appealed her exclusion from the Paris team, had just won the Sunshine Coast half-marathon earlier in the day. If Weightman’s appeal in May had been successful, she would have replaced Jess Stenson in the Olympic squad. Stenson was the top Australian finisher in Paris, coming in 13th.
Genevieve Gregson, who finished 24th on Sunday, expressed admiration for Diver’s determination. “I know her preparation wasn’t ideal in the last few days,” Gregson said. “When we were all in the callroom, we shared a big hug and told her, ‘Whatever you do out there today, we’re going to be so proud of you.’”
Australian men’s marathon record holder Brett Robinson had to withdraw from the Paris Games just days before his race due to a glute injury. Despite his disappointment, Robinson personally contacted Andrew Buchanan to inform him to prepare for Paris as his replacement.
