LONDON, Oct 10, 2011 (AFP) – Britain’s Olympic cycling champion Rebecca
Romero confirmed on Monday that she will not compete at the London 2012 Games
next summer.

British Cycling said the 31-year-old double world champion, who claimed
individual pursuit gold in Beijing four years ago, has left the Olympic
Program.

“Having suffered several setbacks at crucial points, I believe I’m no
longer on a pathway which will see me fulfill my Olympic ambition to win a
second Olympic gold medal,” Romero said.

“I’m proud to have contributed to the cycling team’s great Olympic triumph
in Beijing and I thank all the amazing people within British Cycling who were
central to my success. I wish my current team-mates every success in London
next year.”

Former rower Romero is the only British woman to win Olympic medals in two
different sports following her silver medal at the 2004 Games in Athens in the
quadruple sculls.

She was awarded an MBE in 2009 for her achievements.