'All good chapters must come to a close' Cork's Phil Healy announces retirement

Stepping away from the sport you love is never easy, but Cork's Phil Healy knows that this is the right time for her to hang up her running shoes. After a glittering career, where the 31-year-old set several Irish records, won a European medal and represented Ireland in the Olympics, she announced her retirement this week. Today's top videos Announcing her retirement on Tuesday, Phil thanked those who have supported her over the years, and there were a few familiar faces who sent their best wishes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Phil Healy (@phil_healy) In a lengthy post, Phil poured her heart out, saying: 'All good chapters must come to a close. Making the decision to retire from the sport that has shaped so much my life certainly was not an easy one. I am so grateful for all the incredible love and support I have received throughout my career.' 'After 14 unforgettable years representing Ireland on the international stage, the time has come for me to retire from athletics,' Phil added. She continued: 'It has been the greatest honour and privilege to wear the green of Ireland and represent both my club and country at the highest level. Athletics has given me memories I will cherish forever, friendships that will last a lifetime and opportunities that have shaped my life both on and off the track.' Phil Healy during the women's 4x400m relay at the 2024 European Athletics Championships in Rome. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile Phil went on to praise the sport for how much it has taught her over the years, particularly in life lessons, and thanked her family and friends for the help they have given her over this period. In 2022, Phil was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease (an autoimmune thyroid condition), which made her question whether her days on the track were numbered. However, despite all odds, she carried on, making it to the Olympics in 2024- a memory that will live with her forever. Rhasidat Adeleke, Phil Healy, Sophie Becker and Sharlene Mawdsley. Pic: INPHO/Morgan Treacy Fellow athlete Sharlene Mawdsley was one of the first to message Phil, saying: 'The next chapter is going to be even more special. Thank you for showing us all what’s possible and for being the best mentor. 'You will never know how much you have helped us all throughout the years while being our relay mammy!! You will be so missed. Congratulations on the best career. I’m grateful I got to spend some of the journey with you' Sophie Becker wrote, 'A trailblazer of our sport! I don’t think you fully understand the legacy you are leaving behind✨ the best role model, training partner & roommate I could have asked for.' Sarah Lavin said, 'You will be so missed on the team! Thanks for always making us smile and sharing your positive energy with us all. The best is yet to come.' You Might Also Like Sophie O'Sullivan ducks and dives into semi-final Sophie O'Sullivan ducks and dives into semi-final