Two-time Olympian Michaela Breeze is to end her international weightlifting career by captaining Wales at next month’s Commonwealth Games, it was announced today.

Breeze, 31, who hopes to retain her 63kg Commonwealth title, said she is “choked up” but “so proud” at the thought of being captain.

Her successful career spans 18 years.

“To lead your country at a major international event like this is an amazing honour. I am so proud, and for me it will be the ultimate way to finish my career as an international weightlifter,” Breeze said.

“The 2010 Commonwealth Games will be the very last time I ever put a weightlifting bar over my head.

“I have one more shot at a medal, and I aim to lead by example while also supporting every other athlete representing Wales in Delhi.

“But no-one will be more proud of me being captain of Team Wales than my dad, John, who was born and brought up in the Mid Wales village of Llanidloes.

“We are both fiercely proud of our Welsh heritage.”

Breeze, who is a school PE teacher in Devon, won a gold and two silvers at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

She also competed at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics.

She was confirmed as captain by Welsh Sports Minister Alun Ffred Jones at the Team Wales send-off in Cardiff.

Breeze will lead the 175-strong Wales squad who will compete in 15 of the 17 sports.

Team Wales Chef de Mission and Commonwealth Games Council for Wales director Chris Jenkins said: “Not only is Michaela a great competitor, but she also has an incredible ability to motivate and bring people together.

“When she’s not training or in competition she’s busy talking to other athletes whatever their sport.

“We have every confidence she will make a first-class team captain.”

Up to 8,000 competitors from 71 countries are set to compete at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, from October 3-14.