Birmingham, a city that has been a fertile ground for sporting talent. The decades of the 60s, 70s, and 80s were particularly significant, as they saw the rise of numerous athletes who left an indelible mark on their respective sports.
With the 2024 Olympics taking place, it’s the perfect time to look back and celebrate the achievements of Birmingham’s sporting greats from these three transformative decades.
The 1960s were a time of change and innovation, and Birmingham’s sports scene was no exception.
This decade saw the emergence of athletes who would go on to become legends. Among them was Ann Haydon-Jones, a tennis champion born in Birmingham in 1938, who won eight Grand Slam titles, including the Wimbledon Ladies’ Championship in 1969.
The 1970s continued to build on the foundation laid in the previous decade.
Birmingham’s athletes dominated various sports, showcasing their prowess on both national and international stages. This era saw the rise of Trevor Francis, who became the first British footballer to command a £1 million transfer fee. These athletes exemplified the spirit of Birmingham, demonstrating resilience, skill, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The 1980s were marked by both triumphs and challenges for Birmingham’s sporting community.
Despite economic hardships, the city’s athletes continued to shine. One of the standout figures of this decade was Wilf O’Reilly, Britain’s best-ever speed skater, who brought glory to the city with his remarkable performances. These athletes not only achieved personal success but also brought pride to Birmingham, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams.
The 60s, 70s, and 80s were decades of remarkable achievements for Birmingham’s sporting greats. As it’s 2024 Olympics, a fitting moment to reflect on the legacy of these athletes. Their accomplishments continue to inspire and motivate athletes today, reminding us of Birmingham’s rich sporting heritage and its enduring spirit of excellence.
So without further ado, here are 11 of Birmingham's sporting greats in the 60s, 70s and 80s, according to Brummies:
1. Cricket player - Dennis Amiss
Dennis Amiss, a cricketing legend from Harborne, Birmingham, was known for his resilience and skill as an opener. He played a crucial role in England’s Test series in the 70s and was a key figure in Warwickshire’s County Championship-winning team in 1972. | Image credit -Getty Images
2. British racing driver - Nigel Mansell
Nigel Mansell, a racing legend, grew up in Hall Green, Birmingham. He won the Formula One World Championship in 1992 and the CART Indy Car World Series in 1993, making him the only person to hold both titles simultaneously. | Image credit -Getty Images
3. British figure skater - John Curry OBE (1949 – 1994)
John Curry, born in Birmingham, was a figure skating icon who won gold at the 1976 Winter Olympics. His innovative style, blending ballet and modern dance, revolutionized the sport and earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 1976. | Image credit - AFP via Getty Images
4. British tennis player - Ann Jones
Ann Jones, born in Kings Heath, Birmingham, was a formidable tennis player who won eight Grand Slam titles, including the Wimbledon singles title in 1969. | Image credit -Facebook