Swimming: Three-time Olympian retires

Swimmer Glenn Snyders has retired as one of only four New Zealanders to compete in three Olympic Games. Photo / Photosport

Longtime New Zealand breaststroker Glenn Snyders has retired from swimming.

North Shore swimmer Snyders, 29, is one of only four New Zealanders to compete in three Olympic Games.

South African-born Snyders won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Games and bronze in the 100m breaststroke at the Pan Pacific championships two years ago.

He retires holding all national men's breaststroke record, short and long course and is the only New Zealander to go under one minute in the 100m.

Now based in Los Angeles, where he got married last month, Snyders earned praise from Swimming New Zealand chairman Bruce Cotterill.

"Glenn has clearly been an outstanding, world-class swimmer for more than a decade. During that time he has not only acted in a thoroughly professional and dedicated manner in the pool, but he has been a leader out of the pool," Cotterill said.

Snyders joins Dean Kent, Helen Norfolk and Lauren Boyle as the only New Zealand swimmers to contest three Olympics.

"Representing New Zealand in swimming has been an honour and a privilege," he said.

"To have been able to compete at the highest level in my sport for 12 consecutive years has been nothing but an adventure and life-learning experience, one that I will take with me on my new journey leading forward.''

Snyders is yet to decide on his career path after swimming but wants to retain an association with the sport.