Weak Leg, Strong Father

Jeevan Sivasubramaniam Posted by Jeevan Sivasubramaniam, Managing Director, Editorial, Berrett-Koehler Publishers Inc.



Derek Redmond was highly favored to win in the 400m at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona. He already held the British record as well as many European ones. Unfortunately, midway through the race, his right hamstring gave out. In severe pain and agony, Redmond was still determined to finish the race and hobbled along. Redmond's father, seeing the immense pain his son was in, rushed on to the track and despite the warnings of officials, helped to support his son so that he could cross the finish line. The weakness that had broken Redmond had also helped  the world see the strength and depth of a father's love for his son.