Xing Huina of China runs to victory in the 10,000 metres at China's national games in 2005. An injury will keep her out of the Beijing Games. Xing Huina of China runs to victory in the 10,000 metres at China's national games in 2005. An injury will keep her out of the Beijing Games. (Vincent Thian/Associated Press)

Xing Huina, the defending women's Olympic 10,000-metre champion, will not compete in this year's Beijing Games.

Considered a top hope for the Chinese team, Xing has a thigh injury that will keep her out of the track and field competition.

Ren Wuyong, director for the provincial track team in Shandong, says the 24-year-old runner has been unable to train adequately because of the affliction.

China's track hopes now fall on defending Olympic men's sprint hurdle champion Liu Xiang.