Derek Redmond has achived success in the 400m at the Commonwealth Games and the European Championships. However perhaps the most significant moment of his athletic career took place at the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992.
SPORTS BIO
Derek started his career at the age of 7 when he was a member of the Milton Keynes Athletic Club. He quickly rose through the ranks and came to local prominence as County Champion and record holder in the 400m sprint. His other athletic achievements included breaking the British 400m record in 1985 and then reclaiming it again from Roger Black with an astounding time of 44.5 seconds. Derek became Commonwealth and European champion in the 4x400m Relay in 1986, a world silver medallist in 1987 and had a euphoric moment of victory when in 1991 him and his 3 team members defied statistics and defeated the Americans bringing home a gold medal for Great Britain.
However perhaps the most significant and historical moment recorded in British Athletics for Derek took place at the Barcelona Olympics. Having been plagued by injury throughout his athletic career, which included no less than 13 operations on his Achilles tendons and knees, meant he had to withdraw from many competitions in years past. However, when he entered the arena for the semi finals at the Barcelona Olympics he was physically in the best shape he had ever been in. Feeling positive and tipped to win a gold medal for Great Britain, Derek Redmond was in a good place. However, tragedy struck …. just past the half way stage in a dominant position, looking and feeling great, Derek’s hamstring snapped. In this powerful, emotional and heart rending video, the crowds can only watch as Derek gets up and hobbles the remaining 250 metres of the race.
SPECIALIST AREAS
It was the sense of pride, passion and sheer determination that made Derek get up and finish the race that he knew he had already lost, but one that has earned him the right to become the awe inspiring public speaker that he is today. Drawing on his experiences as an athlete, athletics coach and both a radio and TV presenter, Derek relives some of his track memories, talking to individuals and organisations on the dynamics of teamwork, goal setting and overcoming obstacles.
Derek now works with UK Athletics as Director of Development for Sprints and Hurdles. His role involves identifying talented young athletes, inspiring them to commit to their discipline and providing them with the necessary facilities and support structure to enable them to progress from school level to junior international. Derek is very committed to this role and is further inspired by the goal of seeing the British team exceed expectations in 2012.
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