Glasgow 2014: Non Stanford understands Cave's frustration

Reigning world triathlon champion Non Stanford says she understands Leanda Cave's frustration at missing out on selection for the Commonwealth Games.

United States-based Cave, 36, revealed on her website her disappointment at not being picked for Glasgow 2014.

She hoped to join Stanford and twice-former world champion Helen Jenkins in the Wales team for Glasgow.

"From her point of view, she did everything asked of her in order to qualify," said Stanford.

"I can really understand her frustration. It is a shame because it would have been fantastic if all three of us could have started together.

"It is obviously not official... who has been put forward to the Commonwealth selectors.

"I don't know the reasons behind it, but I am sure there are very valid reasons why she wasn't selected, or put forward for selection.

"I look forward to hearing the selectors reasons why she wasn't selected, but I cannot argue with them because they would have gone through the selection criteria and policies.

"Hopefully, it is in the best interests of the team."

Cave won world titles at triathlon and Ironman, and claimed a silver medal for Wales at the 2002 Games in Manchester.

"I will not be representing Wales... in Glasgow. It's disappointing on so many levels," said Cave.

Cave has concentrated on the longer-distance Ironman events in recent seasons, winning the world titles at Ironman and half-Ironman in 2012.

She was Olympic-distance world champion in 2002 and long distance (raced over double Olympic distance) in 2007.

World champion Stanford, 25, has returned to training after being sidelined with a foot injury in March.

She is confident the injury will not hinder her preparations for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July.

Stanford made triathlon history by claiming the world title in her first season as a senior - a year after claiming the world under-23 title, becoming the first athlete to win the titles in consecutive seasons.

She had wanted to defend her world crown as well as compete in the Commonwealth Games, but says Glasgow is now her main focus.