4-time champion Robert Cheruiyot withdraws from Boston Marathon with hip injury

Ailing Robert Cheruiyot to miss Boston Marathon

BOSTON — Four-time Boston Marathon winner Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot (CHEHR-ee-aht) of Kenya has withdrawn from next month’s race because of a hip injury.

The Boston Athletic Association and John Hancock Financial said Friday that Cheruiyot injured his right hip a few weeks ago and has been unable to train as usual. Cheruiyot holds the course record at the Boston Marathon.

Champions Deriba Merga of Ethiopia and Salina Kosgei (sah-LEE-nah KAHS-gay) of Kenya are to defend their titles in the 114th running of the marathon on April 19.