Five-time Olympian Frances Houghton receives MBE in New Year Honours

Frances Houghton receives MBE for services to rowing

Three-time Olympic silver medallist Frances Houghton has been awarded an MBE in the 2019 Queen’s New Year Honours for services to British rowing.

Houghton, who retired from rowing in December 2016, won silver at the Athens, Beijing and Rio Olympic Games, and was part of four World Championships winning crews in the quadruple sculls.

Houghton first joined the Great Britain junior squad in 1995, and went on to make her Olympic debut at Sydney 2000.

She represented her country at five consecutive Olympic Games, ending her glittering career with a historic silver medal in the women’s eight at Rio 2016.

British Olympic Association Chief Executive Bill Sweeney said: “It is heartening to once again see those who have contributed so much to Olympic sport recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours.

“We are indebted to those athletes who have worn the Team GB colours in inspiring the nation and of course to those who have contributed so much in their work and generous charitable efforts on behalf of Olympic sport and the British Olympic Association.”

Within the wider rowing community, Terry Blunden of Newport RC on the Isle of Wight was also recognised in the New Year Honours for services to his community.