Harrogate athlete George Mills has announced he will be taking a break from running following a disappointing Olympic Games in Paris.
George competed in the Olympic 5,000m final earlier this month following a controversial clash with French athlete Hugo Hay.
But the Harrogate runner finished in disappointing 21st place and has since taken to Instagram to say he will not be returning to the track until 2025.
The 25-year-old also explained why he believed his performance levels "changed drastically" during the Olympics.
George said:
"My last results have taken some explaining. I really didn't want to have to say this publicly as I know exactly how it will come across, and will sound like an easy excuse for my shortcomings, however it's just more of a reason as to why my level of performance has changed drastically."
He explained that he caught Covid whilst in London just before the Olympic games and was bed-bound for five days.
He added:
"I embraced the challenge and gave everything to rest, recover and be ready to perform at a high level both in Paris and during the late season.
"I always say play the cards you're dealt and make the most of it and I can say I wholeheartedly have done that and will continue to do so."
Despite the disappointment, George is staying upbeat for next year.
He said:
"It's not easy to see right now, but in time I'll look at the positives of this season which include a silver medal in the 5,000m and being an Olympic 1,500m semi-finalist and 5,000m finalist.
"I cannot wait to get back to work and do it all over again in 2025."
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