Sidney ATKINSON

Sid Atkinson was primarily a hurdler, who first came to international attention in 1922, running the 110 m hurdles in 15.2 and the 400 m hurdles in 56.5. He was also a useful long jumper. At the 1924 Paris Olympics, the favorite in the high hurdles was American George Guthrie, but as the race started, Atkinson and another American Dan Kinsey got off quickly and ran together until the eighth hurdle when Atkinson edged ahead. Atkinson clipped his toe on the last barrier, allowing Kinsey to take back the lead and win gold. Atkinson reappeared at the next Olympics, finally getting his gold after the disappointment of 1924, defeating American Steve Anderson, who had equaled the world record in his semi-final. Atkinson also won the British AAA 120 yd hurdles title on his two visits to Europe.

Personal Bests: 100 – unknown; 110H – 14.7y (1928); LJ – 7.34 (1925).