British sprinter Louie Hinchliffe has announced his decision to turn professional after winning an Olympic medal in Paris this summer.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a dramatic rise, culminating in helping the British relay team take bronze in the men's 4x100 metres.
Hinchliffe will forego his final year at the University of Houston - where he trained under nine-time Olympic gold medallist Carl Lewis - to pursue sprinting professionally.
In June he became US college (NCAA) 100m champion after clocking 9.95secs, and claimed victory at the British Championships later that month to qualify for the Paris Games.
Hinchliffe just missed out on a place in the 100m final, but claimed a medal with bronze in the relay event alongside team-mates Zharnel Hughes, Jeremiah Azu and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake.
"What a season it's been. I've experienced the highest of highs in my first year at the University of Houston," Hinchliffe said on Instagram.
"I've become an NCAA champion, a national champion and an Olympic semi-finalist all while living out my dreams as a Cougar.
"With that being said, after speaking with my family, I have decided to forego the remainder of my collegiate eligibility and embark on a career as a professional athlete.
"I would like to thank coach [Will] Blackburn and coach [Carl] Lewis for your belief and support of me. I hope that someday I can give back as much as you both have given to me."
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