Lawrence Allen

Lol Allen took up race walking after World War II, and experienced near-immediate success in the sport, winning numerous local and British national titles at various distances, including the national junior 10-mile title in 1948. In the early 1950s, he enjoyed a great rivalry with Roland Hardy. Allen was less successful at international tournaments, however, being disqualified in the 10-kilometre event at both the 1950 European Championships (after finishing second) and the opening heats of the 1952 Summer Olympics. Despite being disheartened at what he felt was the poor treatment of the British team at those Games, he continued to compete thereafter, and won several titles, including the RWA 10- and 20-mile titles three years in succession, 1949-51, and the 20-mile title in 1954 and 1958. In the AAA Championships, he was second at seven miles each year 1950-52, and third at both two and seven miles in 1949. Allen eventually lost his passion for the sport, and retired from active competition. By occupation, he worked in a steel forge.

Personal Best: 10kmW – 44:32.8 (1950).