Limo's hopes of defending title punctured

0 Comments | AFP, October, 2006

CHICAGO (AFP) — Defending champion Felix Limo withdrew from the Chicago Marathon, the Kenyan star who won this year's London marathon citing lower back pain for his pullout from the October 22 race. Limo won the Chicago Marathon last year in 2 hrs, 7 mins, 2 secs and was a favorite this year after winning at London in 2:06:39.

"I am very sorry to have to withdraw from this race," Limo said in a stament issued from his homeland. "I was hoping to run a fast time and win in Chicago and it is a disappointment to me that I must make this decision. "I am beginning to feel less pain in my back but do not feel confident I can run a good race right now and I'm committed to putting together my best performances for myself, the organizers and fans of the sport." Race director Carey...