THE DREAM is over for Wokingham’s Olympic hero Anna Watkins after the rower withdrew from the qualification process for this summer’s games in Rio.
The 32-year-old, who won gold with Katherine Grainger in the double sculls at London 2012, returned to training last August after giving birth to a second child.
The aim was to make the Team GB squad which will be competing in Brazil, but recent results prompted Watkins to come to the conclusion she has not yet reached a good enough level out on the water.
With this in mind the athlete, who also got her hands on a bronze medal at the 2008 games in Beijing, has taken the reluctant decision to step away from the competition.
“I am very sad it hasn’t worked out and this is not a decision that I have taken lightly,” Watkins told British Rowing.
“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.”
Watkins added: “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 teammates in whatever way I can.”
Under the guidance of Paul Thompson, not only did Watkins power her way to Olympic glory, but two World Championships titles, too.
“Anna is an outstanding athlete and an extremely ambitious and talented individual,” said the GB Rowing Team chief coach for women and lightweights.
“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.”
