24 July 2008

One of Britain’s most successful paralympic athletes has officially called time on his career.

Endurance athlete Bob Matthews, may have been out of sight in recent years settling down in New Zealand with his wife Sarah and baby son Thomas but he has not been out of mind.

The legendary Paralympian had competed at numerous championships including every Paralympic Games since 1984 up to and including Athens in 2004.

His impressive medal haul includes eight Paralympic golds, seven World golds and fifteen European gold, plus countless other silver and bronze. He should also be regarded as a prolific talent with 22 world records to his name

Two of Matthews’ impressive World records still remain today in the T11 category – the 800m and the 1500m marks of 1.59.99 (1986) and 1500m 4.05.11 (1989).

Although Matthews recently became a New Zealander, he has announced his retirement on the eve of what might have been his eighth Paralympic Games.

UK Athletics Director and Paralympian Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson said: "I recall when I first met Bob back in 1992 him taking the time to talk to me about training. As an athlete he was always very open and willing to share his thoughts and experience – and always supportive towards the rest of the team members.

"When someone is that successful and always enjoying training, you never expect them to officially retire, but we wish him all the best and much happiness with his new family life in New Zealand."