Giselle Davies resigns as IOC spokeswoman

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – Giselle Davies has resigned after six years as the International Olympic Committee's communications director and chief spokeswoman. The 39-year-old Briton told The Associated Press on Thursday she was stepping down to "start a new chapter" in her professional and personal life. Davies' resignation, to be announced officially by the IOC on Friday and taking effect later this year, comes 10 days after the close of the Beijing Olympics. During those games, she often faced intense questioning during news conferences about China's record on human rights and press freedoms. "I have enjoyed six fun, fascinating, and eventful years at the IOC that included three Olympic Games," Davies said. "Beijing is a fantastic high to leave on. There comes a time when you reach a crossroads and have to make decisions about your life. Now is the time to move on, both personally and professionally." Davies, daughter of veteran BBC sports commentator Barry Davies, joined the IOC in March 2002 after serving as head of corporate communications at the Jordan Formula One team. She worked closely with IOC president Jacques Rogge and was the face and voice of the Olympic body at official news briefings during the games and at IOC meetings around the world. Davies said she will leave the IOC toward the end of the year after the committee's technical debriefing in London on the Beijing Games. She plans to take time off after that before deciding what to do next. "I wish the IOC and the Olympic Movement all the best for continued success," she said. – AP