Back problem ends Olympic dream for Hong Kong former cycling world champion Kwok Ho-ting
Former world champion has a spinal problem and won't recover in time for the 2016 Olympics
Former world champion Kwok Ho-ting has ruled himself out of the Rio Olympics next year due to a nagging spinal problem.
In 2011, Kwok became the second rider from Hong Kong to win a world title in the scratch race following Wong Kam-po's feat in the same event in 2007. He is now coach of the national team, and has been hailed the new leader of the sport in the city, but the 27-year-old said he was struggling to overcome the lower back injury.
Without a regular training programme, I don't think I can be ready for the Rio Games even though it is the biggest dream for any athlete
"I am still under treatment and cannot resume full time training yet," said Kwok, who appeared in a promotional activity yesterday for the World Cup Hong Kong leg scheduled to take place at Tseung Kwan 0 Velodrome on January 16-17.
"I have been in touch with head coach Shen Jinkang regarding my rehabilitation programme, but I have no idea when I will be able to race at the highest level again.
"Without a regular training programme, I don't think I can be ready for the Rio Games even though it is the biggest dream for any athlete."
