Great Britain’s two-time Olympic rower Rebecca Edwards has announced her retirement after a career she has described as “amazing” but “painful”.

Tyrone woman Edwards competed in the women’s eight for GB at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and in the women’s pair at this year’s Paris Games.

In July 2023, she helped Great Britain win a women’s eight gold medal at the World Cup in Lucerne.

“It’s been truly amazing, so exciting, extremely frustrating, more painful than I could ever have imagined, and the best thing I’ve ever done,” said Edwards, 30.

“I’ve smiled so much, cried even more and met the most wonderful people along the way.

“When I set out on this journey I promised myself I would leave no stone unturned and push myself right to the very limit. I believe I have done that.”

Edwards added: “To myself; you’ve done your best. You’ve defied all beliefs time and time again and achieved more than many thought was possible.

“To the people who are just starting their journey; keep dreaming, keep believing. You never know what might happen.”