Phyllis Perkins

Phyllis Perkins was a British middle-distance runner who set four world records during her career. Perkins started her athletics career as a hurdler, before going on to run at longer distances. During the 1950s she broke the world record in the 1,500 metres, 3,000 metres/two miles (twice), and the 3 x 880 yards relay.

Perkins won the women’s AAA title in the 880 yards in 1956 and 1963, and the one mile title in 1954 and 1955, and was the English national cross-country champion in 1951 and 1952. She was also 880 yards runner-up three times in 1957 and 1959-60. Perkins competed in the 800 metres at the 1960 Roma Olympics but did not advance from her heat. At the 1962 British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Perth, Australia, Perkins finished in fourth place in the 880 yards. She retired from athletics the following year.

Personal Best: 800 – 2:07.3 (1956).