Baulch to Retire

Jamie Baulch, one of Britain's most successful 400 metres runners, is to join Kelly Holmes and retire after next year's Commonwealth Games. 'I've had a great career, but I know when it is right to retire and I think after Melbourne that will be the perfect time for me,' said Baulch, 32.

'I can't see myself going on any longer then that. I have lots of medals and it is time to move on. I've set up a sports management company and I'm looking to making a success of that.'

Baulch made history in 1999 when he won the world indoor championships, making him the first Briton to strike gold in the 400m at a global event since Eric Liddell in the 'Chariot of Fire' Olympics in 1924.

But the Newport runner has struggled to make an impression on the world stage in recent years and is planning to miss the world championships in Helsinki next month so he can mount a proper challenge to make the Wales team for the Commonwealth Games in Australia next March.