Jonathan Brownlee crashes on triathlon return in Japan

Brownlee carried his bike for one kilometre after crashing before running to 42nd place overall in the men's event

The Olympic silver medallist crashed over a safety barrier in Yokohama (Getty)

Jonathan Brownlee was among the British athletes crashing in poor conditions at the World Triathlon Series event in Yokohama, Japan, but Sophie Coldwell managed to finish fourth in the women's race.

Olympic silver medallist Brownlee crashed over the safety barrier after trying to avoid another rider on the technical course and carried his bike for one kilometre before running to 42nd place overall in the men's event.

Nottingham-born Coldwell, 22, produced dazzling swimming and cycling legs in Japan and was only overtaken towards the end of the 10km run by American Kirsten Kasper for the bronze medal.

Tom Bishop (12th) and Non Stanford (seventh) hit the tarmac when well placed and will hope for better fortunes at the next round in Leeds next month.

The men and women's elite races were won by reigning world champions Mario Mola (Spain) and Flora Duffy (Bermuda).

PA