A swimmer at three Olympics and medallist at World, European and Commonwealth level, Caitlin McClatchey has announced her retirement from the sport.
Caitlin made her Olympic debut in Athens in 2004 at the age of 19 and helped Team GB to fifth in the Freestyle Relay. A year later she won bronze at the World Championships and then won double gold at the Commonwealth Games in 2006.
“After an incredible 10-year career, competing at three Olympic Games and wining multiple World, Commonwealth and European medals I have decided to retire from competitive swimming,” said Caitlin.
“I have some amazing memories and I am very proud of my achievements in the sport. My career highlight was when I became double Commonwealth Champion and won Scotland's first gold medal at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006.”
Caitlin is currently studying for a Masters degree in Performance Psychology at Edinburgh University as she prepares for life out of the water.
“I am very excited to be starting a new chapter and taking on new challenges. Once I have finished my Masters degree in Performance Psychology I want to be involved in sport and help others to perform at the highest level,” said Caitlin.
“I am looking forward to supporting the next generation of British swimmers and watching them achieve incredible things at the Rio Olympics next year.
Caitlin attributes her career to the support of a number of people and groups who have helped her along the way.
“I have also made some great friends and met some wonderful people along the way, especially my former coach Ian Armiger,” said Caitlin.
“Thank you to all of my coaches and swimming clubs, Northampton Swimming Club, Loughborough Swimming and University of Edinburgh Swim Team. Thank you to UK Sport, Scottish Swimming, Red Sky and all of my sponsors.
“The biggest thank you is to my friends and family, especially my late father Professor John McClatchey, who was my greatest supporter and always believed in me, even when I doubted myself. I will miss him very much.”
British Swimming Head Coach Bill Furniss has paid tribute to Caitlin for her long career within the sport.
“I would like to congratulate Caitlin on her long and successful swimming career,” said Furniss. “It’s a career she should be proud after winning 10 international medals for Britain as well as representing her nation at three Olympic Games.
“We all wish Caitlin the very best for her future.”