Perthshire sporting legend Eve Muirhead yesterday announced her retirement from elite-level curling.
The reigning Olympic champion, from Blair Atholl, signs off with a “huge smile” having carved out a phenomenal career packed with memories to last a lifetime.
Muirhead (32), always a familiar face at Perth’s Dewars Centre, has won every major title in the game across 15 years of international curling.
Earlier this year, she was deservedly awarded an OBE.
The much-loved inspiration to so many admitted now was the right time to hang up the curling shoes.
“I definitely didn’t make the decision quickly, it took a lot of time to speak to people who are close to me,” Muirhead said.
“And also to make sure that me myself was making the right choice.
“Of course retiring as European, World and Olympic champion is something pretty special and something I never ever dreamt of.”
Muirhead steps away from the competitive arena on the back of a momentous season.
She showed her leadership qualities as she rallied to come through a challenging innovative squad system to skip a new line-up to a third European title.
That was followed by gold medal joy at the Olympics in Beijing, before partnering Bobby Lammie to victory at the World Mixed Doubles Championship.
“I do think that after four tries at the Olympic Games to finally get that gold medal around my neck was really special,” she said.
Reflecting back, she added: “I would say the other career highlights for me are winning the World Championships, my European titles and I guess my Olympic bronze medal (at Sochi in 2014).
“But another highlight that has to stand out is the Pyeongchang Olympics, playing alongside my brothers. That was very special.”
Muirhead had words of encouragement for the next generation seeking to emulate her achievements.
“My message to up-and-coming curlers from what I have learnt from the sport and for them going into the sport, it is a case of give it your all,” she said.
“I don’t think anyone who cuts corners or takes shortcuts makes it to the top.
“One thing that is important is that you have to enjoy it and have a laugh along the way, but you also have to trust each other as well and have respect for one another.
“You have to cherish the victories you get and make sure you celebrate them because they don’t come easy and they don’t come every single day.”
In a personal message on social media, Muirhead thanked everyone who has been there for her through the highs and lows.
She posted: “It’s been an emotional journey but a journey that I am incredibly proud of.
“Behind every athlete is a team and I have had the opportunity to work with some of the best and therefore there are many thanks to be made.
“I can’t thank everyone here but will do so individually I hope over the coming weeks.
“To every single team-mate I have had the privilege of playing with, I would like to thank you for your hard work and dedication. This comes from the bottom of my heart.
“To all my sponsors over the years, I simply couldn’t have achieved what I have without your involvement.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the National Lottery and UK Sport. We as athletes are so fortunate to be supported by them.
“The next mention must go to British Curling and Scottish Curling. Being skip and representing Team Muirhead, Great Britain and Scotland over the years has been a real honour, and one I have never taken for granted.
“To my loyal supporters who have always been there, from home and away around the world, you’ve been second to none.
“And to my family and friends, thank you for always backing me and supporting any decision I have made. I love you and can’t wait to spend more time with you.
“Retiring from curling as a current European, World and Olympic champion is something I always dreamt of.
“And I am signing off with a huge smile on my face.”
