Lauren Smith retires from competitive synchronised swimming

Smith, who won bronze for Scotland at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi last year, has been on the British squad for number of years competing at both senior and junior level.

Winning the bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games was the best moment of my career.

Throughout her career, the 28-year old has won six British Championship titles as well as international honours at the LEN European Championships and the Commonwealth Games, which she cites as the highlight of her career.

“Winning the bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games was the best moment of my career,” said Smith, who also won bronze with the British team at the European Champions Cup in May.

“Even though I was third, I was probably the most emotional one on the podium. It meant so much to me.

“The selection criteria to get on the Scottish team was incredibly hard so to do that was a massive achievement in itself. Going on to win a medal in such a tough competition really was the best time in my life.”

Now that she has finished training full time, between 40 - 55 hours per week, Smith has plenty of plans for the future.

“I have a degree in Sports Studies and a Masters in Event Management so I would love to use those skills to work in sport, maybe as a Development Officer. I am really passionate about getting kids involved in sports and getting active.

“I already do some coaching at my club Rushmoor, who did so much to enable me to reach my potential as an international synchro swimmer. It’s nice to give something back as a huge thanks for all their support over the years.

“I am going to miss the camaraderie of full time training, especially as I’ve been there since the team started training full time - but maybe I won’t miss the 7am starts!

“Although it is disappointing to miss the Olympics, my aim was always the Commonwealth Games. I’ve been team captain and have had a great career as part of the British team.

“I gave it everything I’ve got and now I’m looking forward to new challenges.”

National Performance Director Biz Price said: “Lauren has been an invaluable member of the team since she joined in 2007 and it is sad to see her go.

“The pinnacle of her career was her Commonwealth Games Bronze medal in 2010 and we wish her all the best for her future ventures.”