Sport

Adams' coach not travelling to Rio

12:33 pm on 29 July 2016

New Zealand shot putter Valerie Adams' coach Jean Pierre Egger won't be travelling to Rio with the double Olympic champion after suffering a knee injury.

Valerie Adams' coach Jean Pierre Egger. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Egger was hurt while travelling to the recent Diamond League meeting in Monaco.

The subsequent surgery and rehabilitation and the risks associated with travel mean Egger will be unable to attend the Rio Olympic Games.

Adams is to compete on the first day of the Rio athletics programme on 12 August.

Adams' physiotherapist Lou Johnson will accompany her to the Games and Athletics New Zealand High Performance Director Scott Goodman will also assist in Rio with technical support.

Both Johnson and Goodman have been working with Adams and Egger in Switzerland since the coach's injury.

"I'm gutted that JP won't be there in Rio with me and it's disappointing for him too, but I'm in great form and really looking forward to competition day as is JP and the rest of the team. The bus continues on with the Team Adams' journey," said Adams.

Valerie Adams is 'gutted' her coach won't be able to accompany her to Rio. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

-RNZ