Colin Jackson

Former World Champion Hurdler, 110m Hurdles World Record Holder for 10 Years, Undefeated European Champion for 12 Years, Olympic Silver Medallist & BBC Commentator

Colin Jackson’s Biography:

Colin Jackson is one of the most accomplished hurdlers in athletics history, renowned for his speed, consistency and extraordinary dominance on the world stage. A two-time Olympic silver medallist and double World Champion, he held the 110m hurdles world record for a full decade and the 60m hurdles indoor world record for an astonishing 27 years. His 12-year undefeated streak at the European Championships remains one of the longest in athletics history. Beyond his competitive career, Colin has become a respected BBC commentator, an influential sports ambassador and a prominent advocate for wellbeing, diversity and community sport.

Colin’s early athletics journey showcased his exceptional natural talent. He first rose to prominence with gold at the World Junior Championships, setting the foundation for a career defined by precision, technical mastery and mental resilience. His breakthrough on the world stage came with a silver medal at the 1988 Olympic Games, followed by repeated success at the highest levels of competition. He became a global figure in hurdling after breaking the 110m hurdles world record in 1993 and the 60m hurdles record in 1994, achievements that cemented him as one of the finest hurdlers ever.

After retiring from competition, Colin transitioned effortlessly into broadcasting and sports leadership. He joined the BBC as a commentator and pundit in 2004, becoming one of the most trusted voices in athletics coverage. His portfolio expanded with roles such as Race Director for the Wings for Life World Run, co-founder of the Go Dad Run charity initiative and founder of the Red Shoes Academy. He has also taken part in television programmes including Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing on Ice and various documentaries, bringing his personality and insight to new audiences.

Colin’s dedication to sport, education and community impact has been widely recognised. He has been appointed MBE, OBE and CBE for services to athletics and charity, received an Honorary Fellowship from Wrexham Glyndwr University and in 2019 was inaugurated as its Chancellor. His openness about his personal journey, including coming out publicly at age 50, has further strengthened his reputation as an inspiring, grounded and compassionate figure who uses his platform to encourage confidence, equality and resilience.

Why Hire Colin Jackson?

Colin Jackson is an inspiring, warm and highly engaging speaker who blends elite sporting insight with powerful life lessons. His journey from world-class athlete to global role model offers audiences valuable perspectives on resilience, peak performance, overcoming pressure and sustaining excellence over long periods of time. Colin’s natural charisma and authenticity enable him to connect effortlessly with audiences of all ages, while his stories from Olympic competition, world records and broadcasting bring humour, humanity and depth.

He also draws on themes from his autobiography, published in 2004, which explores his sporting career, personal challenges and the mindset required to reach the top. Whether speaking to corporate teams, schools, leadership groups or international conferences, Colin delivers practical, motivating messages that leave a lasting and meaningful impact.

Colin Jackson’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Colin Jackson’s inspirational career throughout the Olympics, sports and commentating:

• 2025 – Delivered the closing keynote at the HEFMA Leadership Forum, speaking to senior leaders across the UK healthcare estates and facilities sector.
• 2024 – Took part in the Paris Olympics Sporting Champions scheme, supporting athlete engagement and development.
• 2021 – Competed in Dancing on Ice, expanding his public profile through mainstream television.
• 2019 – Inaugurated as Chancellor of Wrexham Glyndwr University.
• 2016 – Received an Honorary Fellowship from Wrexham Glyndwr University for his contribution to sport and the community.
• 2016 – Appointed Sports4Kids Ambassador, promoting activity and wellbeing among young people.
• 2014 – Served as Race Director for the Wings for Life World Run, supporting spinal cord research.
• 2012 – Launched the Red Shoes Academy to inspire and support young people through sport.
• 2008 – Featured in Sunday Life and The Making of Me, sharing insights into his personal and sporting journey.
• 2004 – Began working as an athletics pundit and commentator for the BBC.
• 1999 – Won a second World Championship gold medal in the 110m hurdles.
• 1994 – Set the 60m hurdles indoor world record and won Commonwealth Games gold.
• 1993 – Broke the 110m hurdles world record with a time of 12.91 seconds.
• 1989 – Started his unmatched 12-year undefeated streak at the European Championships.
• 1988 – Won an Olympic silver medal at the Seoul Olympic Games.