ORLANDO, Fla. -- WESH-TV announced today that news anchor Wendy Chioji is leaving WESH 2 News on May 21. After a distinguished 20 year career at WESH-TV, Wendy has chosen to pursue a new life built around her passion for physical fitness and athletics.

Chioji's decision to leave was based on her personal interest in moving west and the opportunity to open a new business in Park City, Utah. She and two partners will launch a new Vision Quest cycling center in that city. Similar to the center in Altamonte Springs, the Utah center will offer highly technical computerized bike coaching.

"It's a bittersweet time for me," says Chioji. "I have loved living in Central Florida for 20 years. I've also learned that life cycles have an ending, and it's time to end my life cycle at WESH. I am forever grateful to Hearst-Argyle and WESH for the amazing two decades-long run here. It has allowed me to work with the most talented people in the business and live in one of the greatest cities on earth. I am excited about my new adventure."

In her 20 years at WESH-TV, Chioji has been honored with an Emmy award for a series of reports titled “Heroin Emergency” and the duPont Columbia award for coverage of the Shuttle Columbia disaster. Perhaps her most memorable reporting was that of her own battle with breast cancer. Wendy chose to share that very personal experience in order to help others. She continues to use her second chance to raise awareness, conquer challenges and live strong.

According to WESH/WKCF President & General Manager Jim Carter, "Wendy Chioji is an icon in this community. Her contributions to WESH 2 News and our viewing area are immeasurable. While we understand her desire to take on a new challenge, she will be greatly missed. We wish her all the best in her venture."

"Wendy is a class act," added WESH 2 News Director Barbara Maushard. "She will be greatly missed in the WESH 2 newsroom and in homes all around Central Florida. That said, I am thrilled for her to have this opportunity. It's perfect for her – and we wish her every continued success as she leaves our home for her new one."

No decisions have been made regarding Chioji's replacement or other anchor assignment changes at the station.