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Olympic Sprinter Diagnosed With Mild Leg Strain

The Associated Press

Tyson Gay falls during the first quarterfinal heat of the men's 200 meter race at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Ore., Saturday.

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The Associated Press

Published: July 6, 2008

OREGON - Sprinter Tyson Gay has a mild strain in a muscle in the back of his leg and he has been told to restrict himself to light physical activity for the next two weeks.

Gay pulled up abruptly in the first 40 meters of his 200-meter qualifying race Saturday at U.S. Olympic trials. He had to be carted off the track. He was diagnosed with a severe cramp in his hamstring, and an MRI that afternoon revealed the strain.

A statement from his representatives said Sunday he is "expected to engage in 'active rest' for up to 12-14 days, with light physical activity increasing through that period, then resume training."

The only meet he is signed up for before the Olympics is the 100 meters at the London Grand Prix on July 24-25.

Gay, the defending world champion in the 100 and 200, had already qualified for the Olympic 100 meters. That competition begins Aug. 15 in Beijing. If he can run, he also would be expected to be part of the 400-meter relay team.

But his chances for a medal in the 200 is gone because of the injury. USA Track and Field rules state that only the top three finishers in an event qualify for the Olympics, regardless of a runner's past record or any injuries.

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