Ross Davenport announces retirement

The three-time Olympian made his debut for Great Britain at the World Championships in Barcelona  2003 as part of the 4x200m relay team and went on to win four Commonwealth Games medals including individual gold in the 200m Freestyle in Melbourne 2006, an event he cites as a highlight of his career.

Davenport, who swam at Loughborough University for nine years, is sad to be hanging up his goggles but said the time is right for a change.

He said: “It has been a privilege and honour to represent my country in a sport that I love, but it is time to move on.

“I would like to thank everyone, including those in the background at British Swimming and the ASA, who have helped me along the way and in achieving my dreams.

“The highlight of my career was winning gold at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 but the support we received from the crowds at London was one of the most memorable moments.

“I still want to stay involved in sport and I am currently coaching in Derby, where I trained for many years as a youngster and also working for the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust which aims to inspire and motivate disengaged young people to better themselves so I will definitely be keeping busy.

“I am sad to see the end of my swimming career and it will take some adjustment but I would like to stay involved in British Swimming, even it is just as a supporter.”

Michael Scott, national performance director for British Swimming said: “I would like to thank Ross for his significant contribution to the national team, including strong leadership qualities over the years.

“He has had a successful career for Great Britain and England on the Olympic, World and Commonwealth stage, playing a key role in the British relay teams and winning individual gold at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.”