Hunter bowler pulls pin

Putney, 44, has pulled the pin after 29 years competing in more than 20 different countries.

‘‘I have spent the last 26 years in the Australian team and have given my best to deliver 30 medals,’’ Putney said.

Putney said her two sons, Broden and Karlen, were part of her decision to step down as their own sporting careers blossomed in cricket and rugby league.

‘‘Their careers are now my priority,’’ she said.

Retiring means Putney will relinquish her position in the Australian TBA National Training Squad.

Her first world title came in Abu Dhabi at the FIQ World Masters in 1999.

Highlights in her career of more than two decades include ten gold medals, two Lake Macquarie Sportsperson Awards and an induction into the World Bowling Writers’ Hall of Fame.

Together with Perth’s Carol Gianotti, Putney claimed bronze in the women’s doubles world championships in Nevada in August.

Tenpin Bowling Australia chief Cara Honeychurch praised Putney and Gianotti at the time for their tenacity to finish behind only the USA and Venezuela.

"Carol and Ann-Maree showed today why they are two of the greatest bowlers Australia has ever produced," Honeychurch said after the pair clinched third.

"They bowled brilliantly all day and finished strongly to qualify for the semi-finals.

‘‘They fought to the very end in the semi-final match and showed that great fighting spirit that both of them are renowned for.’’

Putney said she would miss the ‘‘buzz’’ of bowling at the top level.

‘‘I just hope in some small way I have made a difference that inspires children to pick up a bowling ball and have a go,’’ she said.