Final day controversy at IPC World Championships. 29 January 2011

Following three sensational Gold medals on the track at the IPC World Championships in New Zealand, David Weir was all set to bring home another medal in the marathon after two days of rest in Christchurch.

However, news came early on Sunday morning that the expected road closures for any major road race, would not take affect in Christchurch. Following discussions with UKA Team Management, both David Weir and Shelly Woods made the difficult decision to withdraw from the race and not jeopardise their safety.

With the London 2012 Paralympic Games, now their next major Championships the risk of an accident and injury was too high.

Team Leader Peter Eriksson explained:

According to IAAF rules, under which this event is governed, there has to be complete road closures. Our athletes can be peaking at speeds of 40-50kph and due to their low racing positions, visibility is poor for passing traffic.”

David said:

“I’m really disappointed not to have been able to contest the marathon. I was all set to go but we found out there were no road closures on the course at breakfast this morning.

“Its hard to believe to be honest that this can happen. But my safety has to come first and I couldn’t risk an accident, I had the full backing of UKA and my coach Jenny Archer that we made the right decision.

“However, I’ve got my three Gold medals and no one can take them away! I can’t wait to get home and see my family and friends.”