Champion

Derek Redmond first rose to prominence in 1985 when he broke the 400m British record achieving a time of 44.82 seconds. 12 months later he was selected in the 4x400m relay team for the European Championships in Stuttgart.

Great Britain won gold in what was a sure sign of things to come. A year later they won a silver medal at the World Championships in Rome. By the time the 1991 World Championships in Tokyo arrived, Derek had established himself as one of Britain’s best athletes. Alongside Kriss Akabusi, John Regis and Roger Black he then stunned the sporting world as Britain triumphed over the favourites USA to win gold. Their run remains the second fastest 4x400m run in history.

Having now proved himself as a relay athlete, Derek went about trying to do the same as an individual runner. At the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, representing his country he became part of one of the most inspirational scenes in Olympic history.

Inspired

Derek Redmond’s semi-final at the Barcelona Olympics will be remembered as an eternally inspirational moment, as his father headed onto the track to help him cross the finishing line after a serious injury mid race. Lauded as NBC’s third top Olympic moment ever, and mentioned in a public speech by Barack Obama, Derek Redmond is a top motivational and after dinner speaker.

“Derek Redmond bravely making it through with little help, moments of euphoria after years of hard work. Moments when the human spirit triumphs over injury that should have been impossible to overcome.” – President Barack Obama

Injury

Dogged by serious injury from the start of his career, Derek’s remarkable achievements are internationally lauded, and his name has become synonymous with the ideals of hard graft and determination.

Sportsman

Aside from the athletics track, Derek has played basketball for England and professionally for Birmingham Bullets. He has coached and advised international athletes at Birchfield Harriers and has played competitive rugby union for Coventry RFC, Stow RFC, playing alongside the Will Carling, Brian Moore, Rory Underwood and Gavin Hastings in some high profile invitational games.

Television

Derek is loved by TV and radio audiences and is recognised for commentating for Eurosport and appearing on a diverse range of shows including Noel’s House Party, Celebrity Gladiators and Equinox. He also presented a prime time basketball show for ITV.

Coach

As Director of Development for Sprints and Hurdles at UK athletics, Derek has been allowed to identify talented young athletes, and to inspire them to commit to their discipline and provide them with the necessary facilities and support structure to enable them to progress from school level to junior international.

Derek Redmond motivational speaker

An adept motivational speaker, Derek can tell his own incredible story whilst teaching delegates lessons of team-building and goal-setting. Overcoming obstacles and triumphing over adversity, Derek is an inspiration to listen to.