Anne Dunham: Paralympic equestrian star retires after 23-year career

Anne Dunham won one gold and two silver medals at Rio 2016, where she was the oldest member of the British team

Ten-time Paralympic equestrian medallist Anne Dunham has announced her retirement following a 23-year career.

The 68-year-old Wiltshire rider was awarded an OBE in the 2017 New Year Honours list for services to Para-sport, having received an MBE in 2009.

She won five team gold medals at Paralympic Games since 1996, plus an individual gold in Beijing in 2008.

"This has been a hard decision, but I know it is right. It's time to give others a chance," Dunham said.

"I don't want to start with a new horse and then have to part with him. I've loved it all - it's been exciting, I've met some wonderful people and have travelled the world."

Starting with her first Para-equestrian dressage World Championships in 1994, Dunham won 32 major medals, including 19 golds.

"Anne's immense contribution to Para-equestrian dressage over the past two decades cannot be underestimated," said British Dressage chief executive Jason Brautigam.

"She has been the flag-bearer for our sport ever since dressage was first introduced at the Paralympics in 1996."

Para-equestrian dressage performance manager Sarah Armstrong added: "For Anne to close her career on such a high note must be an immensely proud moment for her, her family and her home coach. We wish her well in her next adventure."

Dunham's Paralympic medals

Having won three medals in Beijing in 2008, Dunham was not selected for London 2012

• Rio 2016: Team Gold, Individual Silver, Freestyle Silver

• Beijing 2008: Team Gold, Individual Gold, Freestyle Silver

• Athens 2004: Team Gold

• Sydney 2000: Team Gold

• Atlanta 1996: Team Gold, Individual Bronze