Cayman’s sole woman Olympian, sprinter Cydonie Mothersill, said yesterday she was deeply sadden for her inability to perform at the London Games, both disappointed and frustrated by the injury that made her 200-metre appearance impossible.

Ms Mothersill, 34, had been preparing to compete in the women’s 200 metre sprint on Monday, 6 August, but was forced to withdraw by a tendon injury in her right heel.

“This was my fifth – and very likely last – Olympics,” Ms Mothersill said yesterday. “I came to London to compete and to represent my country and was very disappointed that I was unable to line up. I did everything possible to give myself a chance but it was not to be.”

Ms Mothersill arrived in London, joining Cayman teammates: sprinter Kemar Hyman, hurdler Ronald Forbes, and swimmers Brett and Shaune Fraser.

While battling a persistent tendon problem in her left foot, she nevertheless told interviewers she had blocked the problem from her mind and was looking forward to Monday’s competition.

However, after consultations with her coaches and the team physiotherapist, who conceded Ms Mothersill would do more harm if she competed, she elected to withdraw, ending her Olympic career.

Donald McLean, President of the Cayman Islands Olympic Committee, on Monday expressed his own disappointment, but said the decision had been “In the interests of the athletes’ long-term health”.

Yesterday, Ms Mothersill said she was deeply dejected but had accepted the move had been necessary.

“I wish it could have been otherwise, as I know the country was looking forward to seeing me compete and I was crushed that I could not deliver. However, I want to extend my gratitude and thanks to my family, friends, the CIOC, the CIAA, the Cayman Islands Government, sponsors, the many people who prayed and the countless supporters in the Cayman Islands. Sadly, while it was a difficult decision, I know that it was the right one.”