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TOM LEE / THINGS / Things
Zoe McBride retired from rowing before the Tokyo Olympics.
Zoe McBride, multiple world champions of women’s lightweight spikes, has made a surprise retirement announcement ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.
McBride, 25, was among the favorites to win gold at the Tokyo postponed Games in doubles sculls with crew member Jackie Kiddle.
McBride has won two world championship titles in the women’s light double scull and two golds in the world championships in a light scull.
“Sport at an elite level can be very challenging, and my own mental well-being and the mental well-being of others will continue to be my focus,” said McBride.
“I look forward to offering support and guidance in this area to younger athletes in the near future.
“Representing New Zealand has been an absolute honor and while the decision to retire was difficult, it has given me the opportunity to reflect on all that rowing has brought me. I am very proud of what I have accomplished in sport and look forward to the next stage of my life. ”
McBride missed the Olympic pick in the lightweight doubles sculls in 2016 despite winning the lightweight world title the year before.
She and Kiddle won gold in the lightweight doubles sculls at the 2017 world champions and after a disappointing sixth defending their title the following year, the duo rallied to win gold again in 2019.
Dean Mouhtaropoulos / Getty Images
Zoe McBride, right, and Jackie Kiddle twice won world championship gold in the women’s light double scull.
New Zealand high-performance rowing coach James Coote praised McBride’s nine-year international career, which also featured world titles at the age group level.
“Zoe has had an outstanding career at all levels of our sport and has made the courageous decision to retire as a world champion.
“Jackie Kiddle and I support her decision and look forward to seeing her succeed in her future endeavors.
The Japanese government is reportedly planning to prevent international fans from coming to watch the Tokyo Olympics, in an effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
“Zoe has been a very motivated and resilient athlete, and it has been a privilege and a pleasure to train her at both the U-23 and elite levels. Watching Zoe and Jackie cross the line at Linz 2019 will continue to be a personal highlight for me. While injuries and postponements have played an important role in her career, Zoe has continued to overcome obstacles and her determination and competitive spirit will always serve her well. “
McBride will remain in Cambridge to pursue her career in marketing with a focus on women’s health.
Kiddle and McBride had been named as New Zealand’s light double scull women’s crew earlier this year and were expected to be on the boat for the Tokyo Olympics.
