Stephen Scullion backtracks on ‘rash’ retirement tweet

Stephen Scullion said his decision to call time on his career following victory in the ‘ChampionChip’ Ireland meeting at the Down Royal course at the Maze was ‘rash’.
By Sports Desk
Published 20th Jul 2020, 11:41 BST
Updated 20th Jul 2020, 11:48 BST
Stephen Scullion took the Men’s spoils at the Maze.Stephen Scullion took the Men’s spoils at the Maze.
Stephen Scullion took the Men’s spoils at the Maze.

The Belfast runner took to Twitter on Saturday, saying: “Today was my last race, I’ve decided to retire. For reasons I’ll talk about in future.”

However, he has now apparently reconsidered his decision.

In a later social media post, Scullion said: “Things got a little too much for me and I made a rash decision to announce some form of retirement.”

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In a further tweet, Scullion - who was due to represent Ireland in the marathon at the 2020 Olympics before the event was postponed - added: “Never drink and tweet. Sorry for the confusion today, my wee brain is all over the place.

“But I’m blown away by the lovely messages of support. I know we’re all struggling for now, and I hope things continue to improve. One day at a time.”

On Saturday, Scullion hit the front from the gun in the Elite 10k event and came to half distance clear of James Edgar with Ben Branagh, Russell White and Chris Madden in the following group.

A sub 30-minute time looked to be on the cards and Scullion crossed the line in 29:13 after a great run. Edgar ran brilliantly to break the barrier with 29:54 with Conan McCaughey clinching third.

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Anne-Marie McGlynn smashed her personal best and set a new record with a start to finish victory in the Ladies. The International star looked full of running as she finished in 32:43 to set new figures.

Jessica Craig took second from Gemma McDonald.

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