Haugh of Urr's Jo Muir announces retirement from modern pentathlon

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Haugh of Urr Olympian Jo Muir has announced her retirement from modern pentathlon. The 28-year-old has been on Pentathlon GB’s World Class programme for the past 10 years – a period which saw her claim a European Championships silver medal and a World Cup gold, as well as 14th place in the Tokyo Olympics.

But she has now called time on her career to take up a post with a sports marketing agency in London. Muir said: “I’ve had the most amazing 10 years on the World Class Programme for Pentathlon GB. “Sadly, I knew I wasn’t going to be able to be an athlete forever and whilst I’ve been very fortunate that my body allowed me to do it for so long, I feel really happy with the decision I’ve made. “I’ve had some of my greatest memories but also some of the most valuable lessons through sport and have made friends for life along the way. “I’m retiring happy, content and excited for my next chapter. “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey and to everyone who has supported me.

To the programme, the coaches and staff, my teammates, UK Sport and The National Lottery, my fellow competitors, my family and friends and particularly my parents because without them none of this journey would ever have been possible in the first place.” Muir began her journey as a Pony Club athlete, encouraged by mum Susan who was a keen equestrian.

After taking part in Pony Club tetrathlons, she took part in Pentathlon GB’s schools biathlon championships. And when she took part in the 2009 British Schools Championships at Pentathlon GB’s University of Bath training centre, her eyes were opened to a world of possibilities, her dreams of becoming a full-time athlete beginning to form.