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26/07/2024 00:00, In Blog / Track & Field /

The fastest Welshman in history is on his way to compete at the Olympic Games in Paris! Jeremiah Azu will become the first Welshman to race the 100m at an Olympic Games in over half a century!

The 23-year-old ran 9.97 seconds over 100m in May in Germany and is now joint ninth on the UK all-time ranking list. He was the UK Champion in 2022 and is a double European U23 Champion.

Over the last five years, he has been selected to compete in major championships including the European Championships and Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games but will make his debut in Paris at the Olympic Games.

Jeremiah banked his spot in Paris after taking the silver medal in the men's 100m at the UK Championships in June.

The moment Jeremiah Azu realises he's claimed silver and an individual place at the Paris Olympics.

Ahead of the Olympic Games, we caught up with Jeremiah to share some insights into his life so you too can get to know the real kind-hearted Jeremiah Azu. 

Where did you grow up and where do you live today?

I was born in the Netherlands to parents from Ghana and I moved to Cardiff when I was three years old. I now live in Italy with three other British sprinters. 

Do you remember the first day you stepped onto an Athletics track?

It was in a Cardiff primary school compeition, I was in year four or five and it's a vivid memory that stays with me. 

Picture frame of precious memories of one of Jermeiah's first Athletics competitions

Have any influential people in your life encouraged you to become the athlete you are today?

My PE teacher Mr Griffin was the one who encouraged me and told me to attend the track regularly, he said I could become a great sprinter if I worked hard.

 

Then my first coach, Helen James, really set me up and helped me implement the training, I was coached by Helen for five years, she really changed my life.

Jeremiah smiling with former Coach Helen James at the Welsh Senior Outdoor Champs in 2022.

What is the best thing about being on a prep camp ahead of a major competition?

Good to have no distractions and just focus.

Jeremiah playing Mario with teammate Joe Brier at prep camp ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Do you have a pre-race ritual you do before you compete?

Not a ritual but prayer is a big part of my lifestyle and in those moments even more. My father is a Pastor and attending church is important to me.

Who is the first person you message after you have raced?

Mummy :)

Jeremiah hugging his mum at UK Champs 2022.

What is the one meal you look forward to after competing?

Has to be Nando's or TrapKitchen.

Do you have any hobbies outside of athletics?

This season I have been teaching myself the piano.

We hear you have a new girl in your life, can you share any more?

Yes, I have a Pomeranian named ZOOMIE!

Do you have a message to inspire the next generation of athletes?

The dreams that keep you up at night; the things that make you work hard everyday; the people that believe you can be who you are… These are the reasons never to give up! Keep believing and stay on your own journey. You are exactly where you need to be. 

Jeremiah celebrating with loved ones at UK Champs 2024 as he books himself a spot at the Paris Olympics.

When will Jeremiah Azu be competing?

Jeremiah will be competing in the men's 100m heats on the morning of Saturday 3 August and the semi-finals and finals will take place on Sunday 4 August.

He will also be in action again for the men's 4x100m relay on Thursday 8 August for round 1 and the final will take place the following day on Friday 9 August.

Where can we watch the action?

You will be able to catch the action on the BBC iPLAYER.

Please join us in celebrating this incredible young talent as he takes to the stage at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games!

If you want to find out more information about the Paris Olympic Games and how you can get involved, click here.