Welsh sporting hero Aled Davies, one of Britain's most decorated Paralympians, has announced his retirement from competitive athletics following his final appearance at the World Para Athletics Championships in Delhi.
The 32-year-old from Bridgend bows out after an extraordinary 13-year career that saw him claim three Paralympic gold medals and become one of the most dominant forces in para-athletics history.
A Career Forged in Gold
Davies' remarkable journey saw him triumph across multiple Paralympic Games, securing discus gold at London 2012 before adding shot put victories at both Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. His consistency at the highest level made him one of Britain's most reliable medal prospects.
'It's been the most incredible journey,' Davies reflected. 'Thirteen years representing my country, winning medals, and being part of this amazing Paralympic movement has been beyond anything I could have dreamed.'
Delhi Farewell Performance
The Indian capital provided the fitting final chapter to Davies' career, where he competed in the F63 shot put event. While he didn't add to his medal collection in his swansong, the competition served as a celebration of his contributions to the sport.
Davies expressed mixed emotions about his decision: 'It's bittersweet, but my body has been through so much over the years. I'm proud of what I've achieved and excited to see what the next chapter holds.'
Legacy Beyond the Podium
Beyond his medal haul, Davies has been instrumental in raising the profile of para-athletics in the UK. His dedication and success have inspired a new generation of athletes with disabilities to pursue sporting excellence.
The Welshman's retirement marks the end of an era for British para-athletics, leaving behind a legacy that will influence the sport for years to come.
