PONTYPOOL steeplechaser Ieuan Thomas is one of six athletes added to Team GB for next month's IAAF World Championships in London.
The 27-year-old came third in the 3000m steeplechase at this month’s team trials but failed to achieve the qualifying ‘A’ standard set by British Athletics.
But he has now got the nod from the British selectors following the final selection meeting on July 24.
"When the call came it was a huge surprise, but I am honoured to be asked," Thomas told BBC Wales Sport.
"I have never run for GB before so it is a massive honour for me and I am excited to be there.
"But I am going to get there in the mix and definitely think I can get into the final.
"The wall of sound will be amazing, hopefully I can run faster than I ever have before."
The squad was initially announced earlier this month for the showpiece event from August 4 to August 13 and with the addition of six more the 87-strong squad will be the largest ever to represent British Athletics at a World Championships.
The others added to the team are Meghan Beesley (400m hurdles), Chris Bennett (hammer), Rachel Wallader (shot), Nick Percy (discus) and Alicia Barrett (100m hurdles).
Scottish 400m hurdler Eilidh Doyle will captain the British team after winning a ballot of the GB squad.
Defending long jump champion Rutherford has been ruled out of the Championships with an ankle injury sustained during a competition in Italy last month.
Four-time Olympic champion Mo Farah is bidding to defend the 5,000m and 10,000m titles, while Laura Muir, who has qualified for the 1500m and 5,000m, and heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson will also be in the hunt for medals.
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