World Under-20 10,000m champion Rhonex Kipruto has replaced Geoffrey Kamworor in Kenya's 10000m team at the Tokyo Olympics.
Kipruto, the 2019 World 10,000m bronze medallist, withdrew from the Kenyan trials with five laps to go.
According to a source at Team Kenya's camp, Athletics Kenya(AK) are finalising to have Kipruto drafted into the team ahead of the final of the race scheduled for July 30 at the Tokyo Olympics stadium.
“We are working with World Athletics to see whether we can have him replace Kamworor. We have sent all the necessary documentation because he had attained the qualification time. We have also sent documents to the AIU (Athletics Integrity Unit) to ensure he has passed the strict rules,” Team Kenya General Manager Barnaba Korir told Capital Sports.
Kamworor through his Facebook page said: “This week I had to make the tough decision to skip the Olympics. I’m feeling very fit and in great shape, but unfortunately a painful spot in my foot is preventing me from running 25 laps on spikes by next week."
“I will build on the fitness and looking ahead towards great goals in the marathon in near future, see you soon.”
Kamworor, who was hit by motorcycle while training last year in Eldoret, hurting his ankle.
He proclaimed himself out of danger but suffered a setback in training on Wednesday thus ruling himself out of the Tokyo Games.
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