David Weir says it’s the right time to bring his Paralympic career to an end, including this memorable moment with his son Mason after the London Marathon.
Paul Ellis
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An emotional David Weir said on Sunday he had “poured his heart and soul” into his Paralympic career but it was now time to bring this chapter of Britain’s life to a close for the multiple-time champion.
The man nicknamed “Werewolf” and described by none other than Usain Bolt as “simply inspirational” says his new chapter will combine competing in city marathons with a new role as a disc jockey.
The 45-year-old six-time Paralympic gold medallist announced his decision after finishing fifth in the men’s wheelchair marathon, won by Swiss rival Marcel Hug.
Weir spoke with the backdrop of Les Invalides, where French Emperor Napoleon is buried – a fittingly awe-inspiring setting given his commitment to para athletics for more than 30 years.
The man, who was born with a severed spinal cord and was disabled in both legs, is proud of his long career as a Paralympic athlete.
“This is my last race in Britain,” said Weir, an eight-time London Marathon winner.
“I won’t be doing any more international races. I’ll just do city marathons.”
“I’m very proud and very emotional. My career dates back to 1996 and before that I was almost selected by Barcelona when I was 14.”
“I’ve been at the top of my game for a long time.”
Weir (left) said the 2012 London Paralympics was a big moment for him as he won the first of his four gold medals.
Glynn Kirk
Mr Weir said his wife, Victoria, a teacher, tried to persuade him but he was determined. “I just feel like this is the right choice for me,” he said.
Weir, whose wife Victoria, daughter Ronnie and friends watched his final epic performance, said Rio 2016 was his “worst Games” but London and Athens were memorable ones.
“London 2012 was obviously a big one,” he said of his astounding four gold medals.
“But before that, Athens. I’ll come back after a couple of years off and then I’ll win a silver and a bronze medal and then I’ll be on the podium for the first time.”
“That was probably my proudest moment. I never thought I’d do something like that.”
“It gave me the stepping stone to go further and further. If I hadn’t won there, I wouldn’t be here now.”
Weir admitted he had a tough week in Paris but was pleased to see Weir Archer Academy graduate Marcus Perrineau-Daley win silver in the T52 100m.
“I’ve given my all to the sport and I intend to continue to do so,” he said.
“We’re still supporting the athletes for Great Britain, that’s my goal for the future, but I’d also like to do some projects outside of sport.”
The main thing he sees on the horizon is music and spinning discs.
“I’ve made connections with some people and that’s what I want to do,” he said.
“This has been my passion since I was a kid. This is my side hustle and what I love to do.”
“Electronic. House music and stuff like that.”
“I’m a big fan of DJing. I taught myself as a kid.”
Finally, he said that while Paris organizers had “done a fantastic job,” there was “much more that can be done” and that he would share this only with the International Paralympic Committee.
While he may have some regrets, he said he picked the right tournament to close things out.
“I’m very sad that I will never pull on the Great Britain shirt again, but Paris is a good place to finish.”
