Derek Redmond

Although Derek Redmond was one of the best European 400 metre runners of the late 80s and early 90s, was a world champion as part of the British 4×400 relay team and held the national record for seven years, he is probably best remembered for the events of a summer afternoon at the Barcelona Olympics. Arguably in the form of his life, and having started his Olympic campaign by comfortably winning both his heat and quarter-final, Redmond seemed set to qualify for the final when he broke down halfway through his semi-final when his hamstring snapped. After the pain had subsided he decided to hobble to the finish line despite the protestations of track officials. He had slowly and painfully limped into the home straight when a figure jumped out from the crowd. Redmond’s father, Jim, dodged officials and with the words “We started this together and we’re going to finish this together” helped his son over the line. This incident is regularly quoted as one of the most inspirational moments in the history of the Olympics and as a definition of the Olympic spirit. Redmond had battled injuries for most of his career but this injury was to end this career.

This was not the end of his sporting endeavors however and he recovered sufficiently to play basketball in the British league and to have trials with the England rugby sevens team. Later he was employed by UK Athletics as Director of Development for sprints and hurdles and was also in demand for his services as a motivational speaker. He was married to Olympic swimming medallist Sharron Davies for six years between 1994 and 2000.

Personal Best: 400 – 44.50 (1987).