As our Team GB shot putter Sophie McKinna calls time on her "fantastic" 2018 season, read her thoughts on her brilliant year...
"So after a lot of thought over the weekend and a fantastic competition at the Diamond League, I have decided to end my season.
I’ve really had a great year, throwing several Personal Bests and having the opportunity to compete in both the Commonwealth Games and the European Championships. I made history in the latter by coming 7th, the best result in 60 years by a British Female.
2018 has been my most consistent year yet and even though I didn’t throw that elusive 18m it leaves me plenty to strive for next season!
Mike, Judy and my Grandad have put in some serious work behind the scenes this year to get me to the place I am in now. We still have a long long way to go but hopefully we will keep pushing upwards from here. My family and friends who have been through a really awful couple of years with me are saints.
I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has sent me messages of support, I read through every one of them and it really makes a difference.
I am so grateful to have had some fantastic sponsors this year which has allowed me to concentrate far more on my training and has alleviated so much financial pressure from me. A huge thanks to:
Mellor Metals Ltd RCP Parking Banham Poultry Ltd Norfolk Sports Academy
My strength levels have rocketed since training at Top Body Gym, I cannot thank them enough for their support and awesome environment to work in.
Performance4Sport has kept me in tip top condition this season and allowed me to get to those bigger distances. Check out their page to help with elite performance!
A shoutout to Great Yarmouth Athletics Club, the place where it all began. If your local get yourself down to the Wellesley in Yarmouth on a Tuesday or Thursday night at 19:00 to try out anything athletics!
2018 you’ve been a blast! UK Number 1, 5 PB’s and two Senior Major Championship Finals. Over and out"