England cyclist travels to Australia - unable to compete due to admin error

    England cyclist Melissa Lowther has been left “gutted” after travelling 10,000 miles to compete at the Commonwealth Games on Australia’s Gold Coast to be told she was not allowed to take part.

    The 21-year-old Wakefield athlete was unable to ride in the women’s road cycling time trial because of an administrative error by Team England.

    Lowther wrote on social media: "I can't put into words how disappointed I am.

    "It was one of my targets this season to make selection for the time-trial event and I was so proud that my hard work in training had paid off.

    "While Team England have apologised, I'm still gutted not to have the opportunity to represent my country after all the hard miles I've put in."

    Sarah Winckless, Team England's chef de mission, said a review would take place.

    Lowther's England team-mate Hayley Simmonds took the bronze medal in the event as Australia's Katrin Garfoot won gold ahead of New Zealand's Linda Villumsen.

    Lowther is still set to make her Commonwealth Games debut on Australia's Gold Coast as she has been entered for Saturday's road race.

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