Injured Jess needs break (From Droitwich Advertiser)

Injured Jess needs break

8:00am Thursday 14th February 2013 in Sport

BROMSGROVE cycling star Jess Varnish will miss this month’s World Track Championships because of an on-going back injury.

The 22-year-old Finstall flyer was omitted from Great Britain’s squad for the championships, which take place in the Belarusian city of Minsk between February 20 and 24.

Varnish and Becky James would have been among the favourites for the team sprint title but instead the latter will now ride with 19-year-old Vicky Williamson.

The Bromsgrove Olympian sustained the fissure to a disk in her back while training in Perth and has been told to get some rest to let the injury heal.

Father Jim Varnish has moved to soothe any fears that the Bromsgrove cycling star has suffered a serious setback.

“The World Track Championships after an Olympics is always a bit low-key, so it was thought best for Jess to rest and recuperate instead of making it any worse,” said Jim.

“If this was the final championships before a Games, then she would be competing.

“There’s no point to risking more injuries by rushing Jess back, she’s had a month off already and will need another four to six to get over this problem.

“She’s wants people to know that there’s nothing to worry about, she’s miffed about the injury, but once she recovers she will be ready and raring to go.”

Varnish will now be targeting success in the World Cup series later in the year.

Her and James tasted victory in Columbia in October, while Varnish also took bronze in the individual as well.

And her father believes this enforced break has only renewed her passion for the sport.

He added: “The break has put a lot into perspective for Jess, she loves cycling and being away from it has only made her more determined.”