Injury has kept off World 1,500m champion Elijah Manangoi to defend his title at the world championships set for Doha, Qatar in two weeks time.
Manangoi, who missed both national championships and trials, will miss the championships.
On his official facebook page, Manangoi said “Sad that I am not able to defend my 1500m title in Doha WC due to an ankle injury I picked in training I had no choice, we have to safe the carrier for the sake of Olympic Year. it’s not my fault. But GOD knows the reason why. All my Fans in the World, to Continue to have faith in me. All the best to my team mates, World silver medalist Timothy cheryiot and My younger brother World junior champion George Manangoi and Ronald Kwemoi bring it back home guys. and all competitors and event organisers. Make Doha a fun filled and successful event. ” thanks for understanding and for all your support. See you next season. GOD Bless you all.”
Instead, the country will rely on World Under-20 1,500m champion George Manang’oi, the younger brother to Elijah, World and Commonwealth 1,500m silver medallist Timothy Cheruiyot, and 2014 Africa 1,500m bronze medallist Ronald Kwemoi.