Hunt announces retirement
Team Sky rider Jeremy Hunt has announced he will call time on his professional cycling career at the end of the current season.
Last Updated: 09/09/12 12:21pm
Team Sky rider Jeremy Hunt has announced that he will call time on his professional cycling career at the end of the current season.
The 38-year-old is one of the longest-serving riders in the peloton, having first been introduced to the professional ranks with Banesto back in 1996.
He spent four years at Banesto and then went on to ride for BigMat-Auber 93, MBK-Oktos-Saint Quentin, Mr Bookmaker, Unibet.com, Credit Agricole and Cervelo TestTeam before signing with Team Sky in 2011.
Hunt won the British national road title twice as well as taking the GP Ouest-France in 2002. He also claimed podium finishes at Dwars door Vlaanderen and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne.
Hunt said in a statement: "As a young boy I dreamed of racing my bike professionally. With the support and guidance of many, I was able to pursue those dreams.
"Through the difficult times and memorable moments, the experiences during my career have been far more fulfilling and memorable than I would have ever imagined.
"Those moments will stay with me forever, have matured me and have given me a lifetime of experiences. I know cycling will always remain a part of my life, whether I am a professional or city commuter, as it is my passion.
"After reflecting on my career and considering my future and family, I have made the decision that this will be my last season of racing.
"Despite my unwavering love of cycling, this is the right moment to retire from racing. With my new-born son in my arms my perspective changed. It has become increasingly hard to leave home for a race. I am now a father, first and foremost."
