Elliot Willis out of GB sailing team for cancer treatment

Elliot Willis (left) and Luke Patience were among the first British athletes selected for Rio 2016

Two-time world champion Elliot Willis will miss this year's Olympics because of his treatment for bowel cancer.

Willis, 32, who was diagnosed with cancer in December, had already qualified for Rio in the 470 with Luke Patience, but the British pair have been withdrawn.

"The thoughts of all the team continue to be with Elliot in his ongoing recovery," Patience said.

Five have been added to the squad for Rio, including windsurfer Nick Dempsey.

He will compete at his fifth Games while Charlotte Dobson and Sophie Ainsworth will make their Olympic debuts in the 49erFX.

European 2015 champions Ben Saxton and Nicola Groves have been selected for the Nacra 17.

Patience, a 470 silver medallist at London 2012 with Stuart Bithell, will attempt to re-qualify with Chris Grube.

The decision to withdraw Willis and Patience was taken by the British Olympic Association and Royal Yachting Association (RYA).

"Hopefully this doesn't mark the end of Elliot's Olympic journey and we look forward to seeing him back in the boat soon," RYA Olympic manager Stephen Park said.

Full squad:

Giles Scott, Finn

Nick Thompson, Laser

Alison Young, Laser Radial

Hannah Mills and Saskia Clark, 470 women

Charlotte Dobson and Sophie Ainsworth: 49erFX

Ben Saxton and Nicola Groves, Nacra 17

Bryony Shaw, RS:X women

Nick Dempsey, RS:X men