Irish athlete Derval O’Rourke (33) has revealed that she is retiring after 12 years competing at the highest level in her sport.
The former World Champion and three-time Olympian who also holds numerous Irish records, and will go down as one of the country's greatest ever athletes, is hanging up her hurdling hat. She said: “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.
“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 Championship 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”.
The 33-year-old from Cork announced today that she is retiring from athletics. 
