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Archibald exits as one of Britain’s most decorated track cyclists and arguably Scotland’s most decorated female athlete.<\/p>\n
A relative latecomer to the sport, Archibald did not join Britain’s endurance squad until the age of 19 but won the European team pursuit title in her senior competitive debut.<\/p>\n
Over the next 13 years, Archibald amassed 51 medals at world, European, Commonwealth and Olympic level – including two Olympic titles and a silver medal, Commonwealth gold, seven world titles and a world-leading 21 European titles.<\/p>\n
“I feel dizzy when I look at everything cycling’s given me, and I can’t imagine a future where I don’t see myself as a ‘cyclist’,” Archibald added on Instagram.<\/p>\n
“Luckily though, I’ve also gotten to be a daughter and a sister on the bike, for how it brings my family together. I’ve gotten to be a dreamer, for the goals it’s let me chase. <\/p>\n
“I’ve even gotten to be a protagonist in a few bike races, (perhaps an antagonist in a few others).” <\/p>\n
It might have been more had she not had to withdraw from the Birmingham Games in 2022 and the Olympics two years later shortly before the events.<\/p>\n
“I love racing my bike,” Archibald said. “And it’s been a true honour to race my bike alongside the best in the country.<\/p>\n
“I’m not hoping for a grand legacy, but I hope I’ve made an impact on the individuals I’ve worked with.”<\/p>\n
Currently training to be a nurse, Archibald has “fallen completely in love with the whole thing”, particularly because “it feels so special being someone people can trust when they need help”.<\/p>\n
Great Britain Cycling Team performance director Stephen Park pointed out her “incredible legacy” as he paid tribute.<\/p>\n
“Katie has described herself as ‘obsessed’ with the sport and her relentless drive in the pursuit of excellence combined with a deep passion for track cycling has led her to be one of Britain’s most decorated track cyclists,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Katie has given cycling audiences some of the best moments of the sport’s history and we are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved both on and off the bike.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n