SHIRLEY Robertson will NOT be competing at the 2008 Olympics.

The Isle of Wight-based double Olympic gold medallist made the announcement at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy today after the Royal Yachting Association decided not to continue with the Olympic trials.

Instead, Southampton girl Pippa Wilson joins Sarah Ayton and Sarah Webb - who won gold alongside Robertson in the yngling event at Athens in 2004 - as GB's representatives in the yngling class in Beijing.

Robertson said: "I am very sad and disappointed following today's decision by the RYA not continue the Olympic trials for the Yngling's.

"Whilst Sarah Ayton and her team have had an excellent year, we were the only British class where the top two teams were so close, with both teams finishing on the podium at the ISAF World Championships in July.

"Having had just eight months preparation for the World Championships, I truly believe we haven't had the chance to prove ourselves in the crucial Olympic year.

"In not extending the trials today I believe the RYA has taken the easy decision.

"Anything less than a gold medal in the Yngling class at next years Olympics will leave questions unanswered about the RYA's selection process".

Robertson added: "Lots of people will view this as my retirement.

"However, sailing is one of the few sports that rewards age and experience.

"Sailing with Annie Lush and Lucy Macgregor has been one of the best experiences of my 16-year Olympic sailing career and we are left feeling like there is unfinished business.

"Who knows where my future lies, but for now I will continue to race professionally away from the Olympic circuit at selected events on the JPMorgan Asset Management Extreme 40 catamaran.

"I will also present CNN's monthly sailing TV programme and enjoy spending more time with my one-year old twins.

"I would like to add my congratulations to Sarah Ayton, Sarah Webb and Pippa Wilson and hope they continue their current form and bring home gold next year".