John Metcalf

John Metcalf started hurdling during his time at Chesterfield Grammar school and continued when he went into the RAF (Royal Air Force). He then became a three-time athletics Blue after going to Pembroke College, Oxford, from where he graduated in law. At University he was both a hurdler and sprinter.

A member of the famous Achilles Club, for current and past members of the Oxford and Cambridge University Athletics Clubs, Metcalf won the 1959 AAA 220 yards hurdles by beating triple jumper Fred Alsop into second place. Metcalf enjoyed five consecutive AAA 440H podiums between 1956-60 without ever winning the title and was runner-up three times. He did, however, win the Northern Counties 440H title.

Metcalf finished fourth in the 440H at the 1958 Cardiff British Empire and Commonwealth Games and, after being a reserve for the Melbourne Olympics, competed at the 1960 Roma Games but was eliminated at the 400 metres hurdles semi-final stage. He was a reserve for the 4 x 400 relay but did not start. Metcalf retired from competitive running shortly after the 1961 season to concentrate on his job as a Birmingham company secretary. He also enjoyed his spare time playing squash and golf.

Personal Best: 400H – 51.9y (1960).