James Alford

Who was James Alford?

James Alford was a Welsh track athlete. He was born in Cardiff, Wales. In 1938 Alford won the Mile Empire Games gold medal in Sydney, becoming the first athlete in a Welsh vest to strike gold in the Empire Games. He was also a member of the British 4 x 1500 metre team that broke the world record. At home he won 11 Welsh titles in disciplines ranging from the 440 yards to cross country. He became first National Coach for Athletics in Wales in 1948.

A member of the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame.

As a coach Jim Alford guided and advised many UK athletes to represent the UK and gain honours internationally. He always had time to give to disadvantaged athletes, inspiring them to reach their potential.

He was the author and collaborator of several books and many articles, also translating many overseas books and articles into English.

He worked for the International Amateur Athletics Federation for a number of years, organising coaching forums and writing many articles. He was greatly respected internationally and loved and appreciated by local athletes.