A renowned middle- and long-distance runner who won four Olympic and three World Championship medals, later becoming a respected sports broadcaster.
Steve Ovett is a British track athlete revered for his exceptional middle-distance running skills, which earned him a gold medal in the 800 meters at the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow. With a plethora of world records under his belt, including five in the 1500 meters and one in the mile, Ovett is undoubtedly one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Born on October 9, 1955, in Brighton, Sussex, Ovett was educated at Varndean Grammar School. As a youngster, he showcased great promise in football, but eventually opted for athletics, preferring individual sports over team ones.
Ovett's first major athletics title came in 1973 when he won the 800 meters at the European Athletics Junior Championships. The following year, at just 18 years old, he won the silver medal at 800 meters in the European Athletics Championships, setting a new European Junior 800m record of 1:45.77 in the process.
In 1977, Ovett began to regularly defeat world-class athletes, cementing his position as a top middle-distance runner. He won 45 consecutive 1500 and mile races from 1977 to 1980, an unprecedented streak that earned him widespread recognition.
Ovett's most notable achievement came at the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow, where he clinched the gold medal in the 800 meters. This victory marked the pinnacle of his athletic career, solidifying his reputation as a world-class athlete.
Steve Ovett's remarkable career has inspired generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. His impressive record of achievements has set a high standard for middle-distance runners, and his dedication to the sport has earned him a permanent place in the annals of athletics history.
"The dedication and perseverance I put into my training, I think that's what separates me from others."
Ovett's unique blend of talent, hard work, and determination has made him a legendary figure in the world of athletics. His remarkable achievements continue to inspire and motivate aspiring athletes around the world.
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 middle-distance runner and coach, known for his impressive athletic career and subsequent coaching success, particularly in the 1980s.
67 Years Old
A legendary British athlete who dominated the decathlon event, winning Olympic gold medals and setting multiple world records, cementing his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
67 Years Old
American middle- and long-distance runner who won numerous championships and set multiple records, including the 1500m and 3000m world records. Known for her fierce competitiveness and rivalry with Zola Budd.
59 Years Old
A barefoot running sensation who shattered records and sparked controversy with her unique style and Olympic eligibility debates. Known for her remarkable speed and endurance.
77 Years Old
A renowned middle- and long-distance runner who won Olympic and World Championship medals, later becoming a respected athletics commentator.
Born in 1878
A pioneering figure in London's transportation system, responsible for designing iconic Tube stations and creating the first comprehensive urban transit network.
76 Years Old
A Finnish runner and police officer who won four Olympic gold medals in the 1970s, setting multiple world records in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters. He's a national hero in Finland for his athletic achievements.
