Rio2016 Olympic Games Communications Director Mario Andrada gestures during a press conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on February 2, 2016. Rio Olympics organizers said Tuesday they are concerned by the outbreak of the Zika virus in Brazil, but confident the problem will have cleared up by the time of the Games. AFP PHOTO/VANDERLEI ALMEIDA / AFP PHOTO / VANDERLEI ALMEIDA
THE DREADED Zika virus has claimed its first casualty in the Philippine team bound for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Golfer Angelo Que Monday begged off from joining the trip to the world’s biggest sports spectacle, citing the health risks the virus could bring to his family.
“It will be a great opportunity for me as a golfer to be part of the Olympics, but it is with deep regret to announce my decision to withdraw from the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro,” said Que in his letter to the Philippine Olympic Committee.
Que has not been officially confirmed by the International Golf Federation for the Games although he ranks 55th among the 60 qualifiers for golf’s return in the Olympics.
Miguel Tabuena ranks 37th.
“There are many factors that have contributed to my decision to withdraw from the event. The biggest reason of all is my concern about the Zika virus.”
Also skipping the tournament because of Zika concers are world No. 1 Jason Day, No. 2 Dustin Johnson and No. 4 Rory McIlroy.