Adlington tributes
Figures from the world of sport have been paying tribute to Rebecca Adlington after she retired.
Last Updated: 05/02/13 12:11pm
Figures from the sporting world have been paying tribute to Rebecca Adlington after the four-time Olympic medallist retired from swimming.
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BOA chairman Sebastian Coe: "Becky Adlington's unforgettable success in Beijing inspired a generation to get in the pool and swim. Her down-to-earth personality and remarkable career achievements have made her a national treasure. Becky's vision for the future of grass-roots swimming in this country will create a wonderful legacy from one of our greatest Olympians. I have no doubt this vision will be pursued with the same drive, dedication and determination as Becky consistently displayed in the pool."
BOA chief executive Andy Hunt: "Through her remarkable talent and tireless work ethic, Becky Adlington has set a standard of excellence that future generations of Team GB athletes will aspire to reach. She represents the very best of what British sport, and the Olympic Movement, are all about. As Becky transitions now into a new phase of her career, we wish her the very best for continued success, and congratulate her on her remarkable career with Team GB."
Adlington's coach and mentor Bill Furniss, recently appointed head coach by British Swimming: "Proud to have been Rebecca's coach the same qualities that made her the best ever will ensure success in everything she does."
GB team-mate Keri-anne Payne: "So unbelievably proud of @BeckAdlington and honoured to have been on some of your journey with you. I miss you alread!! xxxxx #legend."
Eighteen-time Olympic champion swimmer Michael Phelps: "Our paths have crossed many times over the years - at meets and through a shared sponsor. Her accomplishments speak for themselves, she has been a great representative for British Swimming and the sport overall. I congratulate her on a fantastic career and wish her all the best in the future."
Former GB swimmer Stephen Parry: "Becky said in the press conference she has done everything she could in the sport. She felt she couldn't take it on at two distance events at the age of 27. I think she has made the right decision. She is happy with what she has done in the sport."
Duncan Goodhew, who won gold and bronze breaststroke medals at the 1980 Moscow Olympics: "When she broke the world record in Beijing at 19 it was an astounding performance. How could she improve on that?"
BOA chief executive Andy Hunt: "Through her remarkable talent and tireless work ethic, Becky Adlington has set a standard of excellence that future generations of Team GB athletes will aspire to reach. She represents the very best of what British sport, and the Olympic Movement, are all about. As Becky transitions now into a new phase of her career, we wish her the very best for continued success, and congratulate her on her remarkable career with Team GB."
GB boxer Anthony Agogo: "@beckadlington All the best for your retirement Becks. You'll go down as an absolute legend in the pool. Good luck in the future love x"