DISABILITY athlete Katrina Hart's World Cup is over before it even started - but the youngster is determined her Paralympic dream will not go the same way.
The Worcester 17-year-old was due to compete in the Paralympic World Cup this week but was forced to pull out with a hamstring problem.
The Birchfield Harrier, who specialises in the 100-metre and 200m sprints, will be a frustrated spectator in Manchester.
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But Hart will allow nothing to jeopardise her chances of securing a seat on the plane to Beijing in September.
"I'm gutted to be honest," said Hart, who was the fastest in the world over 100m in her T37 category last year. "I had to pull out because my right hamstring is tight.
"It is nothing to worry about but I've been advised that it is probably best if I sit this one out. I'm really disappointed because it is a great chance to get some races against the top people."
Hart, who trains at Worcester Athletic Club, has been suffering with her hamstring injury picked up in training for almost a month.
But with at least a podium place in Beijing on offer for Hart she insists she wants to be in prime condition for the biggest race of her life.
"I don't want to injure myself seriously now because that would mean missing out on the Paralympics and I certainly don't want to do that," added Hart, who has cerebral palsy.
"It's only a slight pull and I would be quite happy to race. If it had been the Paralympics, I would have taken the chance. But with Beijing so close, I didn't want to ruin anything.
"The physio advised not to risk it so that's what I've done. The Paralympics will be unbelievable. I'm not sure how I'll feel until I get out there but I'm really looking forward to it."
The Paralympic World Cup in Manchester runs until tomorrow. Tickets are available on www.paralympicworldcup.com or by phone on 0871 230 5595. Text WORLDCUP2 to 84880 for more information.
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