AW Magazine

27 June 2024

Who would you rank as the greatest when it comes to athletes who have represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland in athletics at the Olympics? That’s the question we put to a panel made up of people from across the world of athletics – from athletes past and present to coaches, commentators, statisticians and journalists – and the resulting top 20 is at the heart of the July issue of AW. We profile each of the athletes to have made a final list that is sure to spark debate. Adding to the Olympic theme, we also look back in time 40 years to Los Angeles 1984. Author Stephen Lane examines how the initially less than enthusiastic hosts ultimately changed hearts and minds, as well as producing an edition of the Games that featured more than a touch of Hollywood glamour and changed the nature of the event forever. We also hear from Wendy Sly about one of the most controversial distance races ever run, while former javelin thrower Tessa Sanderson relives the golden moment that made a big impact outside of her sport. Fast forwarding to this Olympic year, we review the latest edition of the European Championships, which took place in Rome. From the outstanding performance of the Italian team through to how Britain’s athletes are shaping up for Paris, the superb photography of Dan Vernon helps guide us through the events that unfolded at the Stadio Olimpico. The issue is packed full of opinion, too, with views on the British selection policy through to the potential impact of the new Netflix series SPRINT, while our performance section features the latest kit reviews, expert advice and also a revealing coaching conversation with Helena Duplantis.