22 May 2013

Lee McConnell (coach: Rodger Harkins) has today announced that she will not compete during the 2013 season as she is expecting her first child with husband Craig Bonthron in early November.

McConnell, who has won more medals than any other Scottish athlete, is a three-time Olympian and has competed at every major championship since 2001. She has won nine major championship medals during her 14 year career.

Although she will miss the 2013 season, the 34 year old insists that the 2014 Commonwealth Games on home soil in Glasgow remain in her plans.

“The pregnancy has come as a bit of a surprise but we are absolutely delighted with the news. I plan to continue to train throughout the pregnancy but will not be competing this year.

"With regards to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games I would ideally love to be back on the track but it is going to be a big challenge and will depend on how the pregnancy and birth goes but either way I will certainly be keen to be involved.

“2014 is shaping up to be a really exciting year for me. And it’s all happening in Glasgow!  A home Commonwealth Games, my first baby – I’m really excited.”

British Athletics Performance Director Neil Black said: “We are really pleased for Lee and her husband Craig, and we will work with her closely on her fitness and return to competition in 2014.”