DANNY Talbot has been forced to pull out of the chance to race against World 100m and 200m record holder Usain Bolt at the Bislett Games in Oslo tomorrow night, writes KEVIN FAHEY.

The 20-year-old Trowbridge sprinter, who leapt to the top of the UK rankings with a sizzling personal best of 20.54secs in Geneva last week, got a surprise invite to take part in the prestigious meeting last weekend and immediately leapt at the chance to face the global superstar of the sport.

“We got a call from UK Athletics offering Danny the chance to race the 200m in Oslo and obviously we said yes,” said coach Dan Cossins, who lives in Corsham.

“But over the weekend Danny was invited to race with the British relay team in Germany and he tweaked his hamstring.

"Danny saw the doctor at Bath University on his return and he confirmed there is a small tear and she should rest for a few days.

“It is disappointing for Danny to miss the chance to race Bolt but I think it will be a blessing in disguise and I’m sure he will get plenty of more chances to race him in the years ahead.”

The disappointment at missing out on facing Bolt was quickly assuaged with news that Talbot has been selected to represent Great Britain at the European Team Championships in Stockholm on June 18/19.

“To be honest it is all a bit surreal,” said Talbot.

“I didn’t expect that at all and I am very proud to have been picked for such a prestigious event.”

Talbot made his British senior debut during the indoors season but the Stockholm meeting is a massive step up in his career and continues the amazing start to the 2011 season.

“I can’t believe how well it is going and every week it seems to get better,” added Talbot.

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