John Bicourt

John Bicourt was one of the best British steeplechasers of the 1970s. Bicourt represented the Belgrave Harriers and was known for his impressive hurdling technique. In the 3,000 metres steeplechase he set an English record of 8:22.82 in 1976. He later went on to work as a teacher and coach.

In 1965 Bicourt won the Belgrave junior five miles cross-country championships on Wimbledon Common. Bicourt competed at the 1972 München Olympics but failed to advance from his heat after finishing in eighth. Two years later he finished in sixth place in his heat at the 1974 European Championships. Bicourt just missed out on a medal at the 1974 British Commonwealth Games in Christchurch when he finished in fourth place, with Ben Jipcho winning the race in a new Games record. He returned to the Olympics at the 1976 Montréal Games but again finished eighth in his heat. In 1981 Bicourt ran in the Berlin marathon where he finished in 10th place.

From 1967 to 1970 Bicourt studied at St Mary’s College before becoming a lecturer in athletics at St Mary’s University in Twickenham. Bicourt also taught PE and sociology during the mid-1970s in London. In 1978 he was the first athlete manager/representative and four years later he founded the Athletes International Management running the organisation until 2004. Bicourt was a founder member of the International Association of Athletes’ Representatives (IAAR). Bicourt coached multiple athletes during his career including Olympians Paul Evans and Richard Chelimo.

Personal Best: 3000S – 8:22.82 (1976).