Neil Fachie bows out as ‘Scotland’s most successful Commonwealth Games athlete’

Neil Fachie has confirmed his intention “after a magical couple of weeks in Glasgow” to “bow out of elite sport as Scotland’s most successful Commonwealth Games athlete”.

The 42-year-old Para-cyclist had come out of retirement to compete in Glasgow and took two more golds with pilot Aaron Pope after victories in the men’s tandem B 1,000m time trial and the men’s tandem B sprint.

It was their seventh Commonwealth Games title overall.

Fachie had planned it as his finale and said on Facebook: “I would be lying if I said it had been a lifelong dream – it runs far beyond my wildest dreams.

“There are countless people to thank, those who supported me, those who pushed me and those who doubted me. You have each provided so much in your own way.

“Sport allowed me to be myself. Sport gave me confidence and freedom as a person with a disability that other areas of life didn’t and couldn’t.

“I have experienced incredible things, met wonderful people and amongst it all always ensured that I remain grounded and real.”

Fachie has no regrets about calling it a day as he thanked his family, coaches and team-mates.

“I don’t leave competitive sport with a heavy heart, it’s time,” he said. “At 42 years old, finding the drive to push myself has become too great a hurdle.

“Oh to the next chapter, with plenty of stories to share.”