St Albans judo talent Dan Mair was left shocked and disillusioned after being de-selected for the Youth Olympics despite being British number one.

The 17-year-old, who is top ranked in the Under-90kg cadet class, was initially picked to compete later this month at the Games in Georgia.

But the British Judo Association subsequently changed their mind and selected Britain's number two William Jones, following an appeal, despite Mair beating him to win the bronze medal at the European Cup in March.

He has decided to return to Marshalswick Judo Club where he started out and has pulled out of the England squad.

Mair said: “To find out I had actually made the squad was immense. As soon as I received the official confidential notification I increased my training even more.

“I only found out about Will Jones’ appeal when I received a very blunt email about my de-selection. I had not been notified there was an appeal lodged against my selection. Also I was not notified that I could then counter appeal, until my father had a heated discussion with one of the England coaches who reluctantly told him this was an option.

“My initial appeal was based purely around the fact I am the GB number one who holds a European Cup medal and ranked 44 in the world.”

The teenager added: “It is impossible to understand the BJA’s decision. To have a decision made against me for such a prestigious sporting event that is not based on the merits of these two athletes is truly shocking. I am proud to represent my country but am not proud to represent the BJA.”

Mair initially found out about his selection in June and was told it was confidential until July 14. But Jones was informed of the decision and used it to lodge a successful appeal.

“I have gone through a range of emotions from shocked, angry and obviously disappointed,” Mair said.

“For the BJA to have leaked Will Jones’ non selection to him is appalling. For him to then use technical information that they supplied him with in order to win that appeal is unbelievable. He didn't even win it based on the merits of his judo. How can I possibly fight that?

“At the moment I do not feel like setting foot on a judo mat again. When selection does not take place based on an athletes athletic ability, what is the point?

“Any country at Olympic level needs to be represented by the sportsmen most likely to win them a medal, and that is their best athlete not their second best.”

The BJA failed to issue a response when contacted over the story.