Idowu jumps out of the fray

Medal is not worth the risk, says English triple jump champion

The pull out of Idowu came hours after his compatriots -- Olympic 400M champion Christine Ohuruogu and 2006 Melbourne Games 1500M gold medallist Lisa Dobriskey -- decided to withdraw from the Games due to injuries.

The 31-year-old Idowu, who won gold in 2006 Melbourne Games, said on his Twitter page that he was withdrawing from the mega event as he cannot risk his life because he has two children to take care of.

“All the press today about bridges collapsing and 23+ people being hurt, floods and uninhabitable living conditions, getting my daughter ready for school this morning and seeing all of that put me off.

“I can’t afford to risk my safety in the slightest. Sorry people, but I have children to think about. My safety is more important to them than a medal,” he tweeted.

“I understand people will be disappointed that I will not be competing. I am disappointed. These games mean a lot to me. It’s the champs in which I won my 1st medal. And four years ago won my 1st gold, which kicked off the success I have in my career to date,” said Idowu. Dobriskey has been advised to rest and focus on training for next year after an injury-hit season.

“I was really looking forward to competing and I’d worked so hard to get back into shape. I’m really disappointed but I just ran out of time. I want to wish all the best to the athletes out in Delhi,” Dobriskey said.

On Tuesday, Australian world champion discus thrower Dani Samuels pulled out, citing health and security concerns following Sunday’s gun attack on two foreign tourists and the recent outbreak of dengue fever in the Indian capital.