Fred Alsop

Throughout the 1960s, Fred Alsop was not only the best British triple jumper, but was also amongst the world´s best. Having been the AAA junior champion in 1957, he won five senior titles between 1960-67 and additionally won three long jump titles in 1960, 1963, and 1965. On top of that, Alsop enjoyed a total of six podium finishes at both disciplines. His first senior podium finish was in 1959, however, when he lost by inches to John Metcalf in the 220 yards hurdles.

Alsop went to the three Olympics in the 1960s, competing in both the long and triple jump in 1960 and 1964 and the triple jump only at Mexico City. His best finish was fourth at Tokyo in 1964 when he achieved his triple jump personal best 16.46, which was also a British record that stood until improved by Aston Moore at the 1976 GB Olympic trials. Alsop´s two major international medals were both at the British Empire & Commonwealth Games when he won triple jump bronze at Perth (Australia) in 1962 and Kingston (Jamaica) four years later. He also finished ninth and 12th respectively in the long jump.

As a teenager Alsop was a good footballer but chose athletics after winning his first junior AAA triple jump title at the age of 18. As a footballer, he was a winger and represented Thurrock Schools in the English Schools´ Trophy. By profession, Alsop was an electrical engineer.

Personal Bests: LJ – 7.74 (1964); TJ – 16.46 (1964).