European 10,000m gold medallist Jo Pavey has revealed she is going to sit out this summer’s World Championships with the 2016 Rio Olympics in mind.
Pavey, 41, turned back the clocks last year as she won 5,000m bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games before going on to claim the 10,000m title at the European Championships in Zurich.
She looked set to continue that fine form in August at the World Championships in Beijing, but she insists it is simply not a viable option.
"If I were to compete in Beijing and Rio it would mean three summers in a row with lengthy periods focused on championship running,” Pavey said.
"I feel this is not a good balance for my kids so I am going to stay at home.
"I am also aware I need to look after myself if I want to qualify for Rio.
"I trained extremely hard during 2014 and I believe if I push as much again this year I will increase the risks of not being at my best for 2016.
"Also, I am aware that conditions in Beijing might be hot, humid and potentially have high pollution levels."
British Athletics performance director Neil Black added: "We are fully supportive of Jo's wishes not to be considered for selection for the World Championships in Beijing.
"With a young family and the pressures that come with maintaining that professional and personal life balance we look forward to seeing her on the domestic and Diamond League circuit this summer."
© Sportsbeat 2015