Athletics: Former world champion Derval O'Rourke announces her retirement
Last Updated: 23/06/14 4:51pm
Former world champion Derval O’Rourke has announced her retirement from athletics.
The three-time Olympian brings the curtain down on an amazing sprint hurdling career that saw her win five major championship medals, including gold in the 60 metres hurdles at the World Indoor Championships in Moscow in 2006.
O’Rourke, 33, had targeted August’s European Championships in Zurich but her preparations were hampered by a succession of injuries that prevented her from competing this season.
It’s been a tough decision but it feels like the right time. I knew I could compete this season, but not in a time to be in medal contention by European Outdoors.
Derval O'Rourke
“I’ve had an absolutely amazing career in athletics and for that I am so grateful to all the support I have received along the way," she said in a statement.
"It’s been a tough decision but it feels like the right time. I knew I could compete this season, but not in a time to be in medal contention by European Outdoors. Going to a championships just to be there, isn’t me.
“The last competitive race I ran was the bronze medal I won last year at European Indoors and I feel like that was a great performance.
"I’ve been extremely lucky with the team I’ve had around me, Sean and Terrie Cahill are the rock that my success has been built on.
"Together we forged a way to be successful on a world stage and I’m incredibly grateful for their focus, passion and dedication.
“I’ve loved every minute of my athletics career but now I’m going to take some time to reflect what has been a very privileged job for me for the past 12 years and make some decisions for the future.”
