NEWPORT sprinter Christian Malcolm was dealt a hammer blow in his bid for Olympic glory after a virus led to him being hospitalised for five days in Cyprus with mild kidney failure.

Track star Mr Malcolm, 25, has now been released from hospital and has resumed training in a bid to compete in the 200 metres qualifying rounds, which begin on Tuesday.

Mr Malcolm felt unwell when he arrived at the British Olympic Association's preparation camp in Paphos on August 9 and, on the advice of doctors from UK Athletics, went to a local hospital last Tuesday. He was released on Sunday.

The Argus understands that Mr Malcolm first felt unwell two days before competing at Crystal Palace on July 30 and that his condition got worse once he arrived in Cyprus.

On his release from hospital Mr Malcolm said: "Even though it was a serious condition, doctors Bryan (English), Bruce (Hamilton) and Simon (Till) were wicked and helped me stay positive to get through it, as well as my coach, friends and family. Now I just want to run, enjoy it and see what happens."

UK Athletics chief medical officer Bryan English said: "Fortunately all serious causes of the condition were ruled out and it seems likely that it was caused by a virus.

"As a result of Christian's physical fitness his speed of recovery has been remarkable and he should now be able to compete in the Games." Mr Malcolm's mother Yvonne told the Argus that the last week had been incredibly tough for the family.

She explained: "We have had a very bad week and have obviously been extremely worried about Christian.

"He was in terrible pain and was unable to walk while he was in hospital as his blood pressure was too high.

"But the doctors really took good care of him and yesterday his blood pressure reading was looking far better.

"He is swimming today and doing some light training and, typically of Christian, he is remaining really positive.

"He still hopes to compete in Athens and the doctors think that will be fine but they are continuing to check on him every day."

Mr Malcolm, a former junior champion, finished fifth at the Sydney Olympics in 2002 and is looking to improve on that in Athens.