• Athletics

Radcliffe won't retire despite losing funding

ESPN staff
October 15, 2012
Paula Radcliffe says she will continue training © Getty Images
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Marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe insists she has no intention of retiring despite being axed from the Lottery funding scheme.

Radcliffe, 38, was one of a number of high-profile athletes to be cut from UK Athletics' World Class Performance Programme for 2013, which sees only potential world and Olympic medallists qualify for financial support.

Owing to her personal endorsements Radcliffe, who has completed just one marathon since 2009, did not receive a personal allowance, but says she admits missing out on free medical support will be a huge blow.

Taking to her Twitter page to react to the news, Radcliffe, who is still recovering from a foot injury that ruled her out of London 2012, is determined to return to competition.

"I am very grateful for the support Lottery funding gives us athletes and fully expected to see it withdrawn," she said.

"From the beginning, I have only ever received medical support, which is of course significant and vital. Since funding came in, I have seen big differences in the depth and strength of all our sports.

"Retirement is definitely not in any plans. I'm not doing all this cross-training and getting this foot healthy and strong for nothing."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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