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.