• Athletics

Sotherton calls time on heptathlon

ESPN staff
November 2, 2010
Kelly Sotherton will now focus on the track after giving up on her heptathlon dream © Getty Images
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Kelly Sotherton has admitted defeat in her battle to return to the heptathlon, with the Brit confirming she will dedicate her career to the 400 metres.

Sotherton has been plagued by injuries in recent years, with her bid to do battle with fellow Brit and heptathlon sensation Jessica Ennis derailed by a back problem.

The Olympic bronze medallist had hoped to launch a two-pronged assault alongside Ennis at the 2012 Olympics in London, but medical opinion has forced her into a rethink.

"It's confirmed. Sadly I'm no longer a heptathlete, but a 400m runner," Sotherton wrote on her Twitter page. "A change is as good as a rest. I've had lots of that too!"

Mark Lewis-Francis can now focus on building towards London 2012 after being informed he will receive lottery funding. He said: "I'm delighted to be funded. It will let me focus on my training with the knowledge I have the support."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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