Anna Watkins leaves British rowing team with Olympic hopes over
By PA Sport
Last Updated: 10/02/16 11:28pm
London 2012 gold medallist Anna Watkins has conceded defeat in her bid to make Great Britain's Olympic rowing squad for Rio.
Watkins and Katherine Grainger took the Olympic title in double sculls four years ago, since when Watkins has taken time out of the sport to have two children.
The 32-year-old returned last summer after three years away in an attempt to regain form and fitness for another Olympic medal tilt.
But Watkins accepts she has not reached the required standard and has left the GB training squad ahead of this summer's Games in Brazil.
She said on the British Rowing website: "I am very sad it hasn't worked out and this is not a decision that I've taken lightly.
"I've had great support from everyone involved with the GB Rowing team as well as the wider rowing community, my family and friends. I guess I would have always wondered about what might have been if I hadn't given it a go.
"Rowing has been such a big part of my life and I am sure that I will remain involved in some way. I am just taking some time to think this over but I'll continue to support my team-mates in whatever way I can."
British team coach Paul Thompson saluted Watkins for attempting to earn selection.
"Anna is an outstanding athlete and an extremely ambitious and talented individual," he said.
"Anna gave this her best shot and it unfortunately hasn't worked out. She is a fabulous ambassador for our sport and a great champion. We wish her and her family well for the future."
