A British middle-distance athlete who won two gold medals at the 2004 Athens Olympics, setting a new personal best in the 800m and 1500m events.
Kelly Holmes is a name synonymous with excellence in British athletics, particularly in the middle-distance events of 800 meters and 1,500 meters. She is a double Olympic gold medalist, winning both events at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, cementing her place as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Born on April 19, 1970, Holmes grew up in Kent, England, where she was inspired by the success of British middle-distance runners in the early 1980s. She joined the British Army, but continued to pursue her passion for athletics, competing in Army athletics events.
In 1993, Holmes turned pro, and her career took off. She won the 1,500 meters at the 1994 Commonwealth Games, followed by a silver medal at the European Championships. Her impressive performances continued, earning her a silver and bronze medal at the 1995 Gothenburg World Championships.
Despite her early success, Holmes faced a series of injuries that threatened to derail her career. She suffered a stress fracture in 1996, failing to medal at the Atlanta Olympics. However, she refused to give up, working her way back to the top of her game.
Holmes' perseverance paid off, as she won a silver medal in the 1,500 meters at the 1998 Commonwealth Games and a bronze medal in the 800 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, her first Olympic medal. She continued to dominate, winning the 1,500 meters at the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the 800 meters bronze at the Munich European Championships.
The 2004 Athens Olympics proved to be the pinnacle of Holmes' career, as she won double gold medals in both the 800 meters and 1,500 meters events, becoming the first British athlete to achieve this feat in 84 years.
In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Holmes was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2005. She has also been made an honorary colonel with the Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment (RACTR).
After retiring from athletics in 2005, Holmes has remained a prominent figure, becoming a global motivational speaker and publishing five books. Her legacy continues to inspire a new generation of athletes and beyond.
Kelly Holmes' remarkable career has left an indelible mark on British athletics. Her dedication, perseverance, and achievements have inspired countless individuals, making her a true icon in the world of sports.
Kelly Holmes' remarkable story is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and resilience. Her achievements will continue to inspire generations to come, cementing her place as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
65 Years Old
A renowned middle-distance runner and coach, known for his impressive athletic career and subsequent coaching success, particularly in the 1980s.
69 Years Old
A renowned Olympic gold medalist and former world record holder in the 800 meters, known for his impressive athletic career and later becoming a prominent politician.
65 Years Old
A renowned Olympic gold medalist and world champion sprinter, known for his exceptional speed and dominance in the 100m dash.
59 Years Old
A British athlete who won gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and held the world triple jump record from 1995 to 2011, earning him a place in the UK Athletics Hall of Fame.
58 Years Old
A renowned Welsh athlete who dominated the 110m hurdles, winning numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, and holding the world record for nearly 13 years.
59 Years Old
A renowned Olympic gold medalist and television presenter, known for her exceptional hurdling skills and charismatic sports commentary.
56 Years Old
A British athlete who dominated the javelin throw event in the 1990s, winning numerous Olympic and World Championship medals. He's a four-time European Champion and former world record holder.
