Nick Gillingham, English swimmer

Nicholas Gillingham, born on January 22, 1967, in Walsall, England, is a distinguished English former competitive swimmer whose impactful career spanned the 1980s and 1990s. Renowned for his formidable prowess in the breaststroke discipline, Gillingham consistently represented Great Britain at the highest levels of international competition, including the Olympic Games, FINA World Championships, and European Championships. Additionally, he proudly competed for England in the Commonwealth Games.

A Stellar Olympic Career

Gillingham’s Olympic journey stands as a testament to his enduring excellence and ability to perform under immense pressure. He earned medals in two consecutive Olympic Games in his specialist event, the 200 metres breaststroke. At the 1988 Seoul Olympics, he secured a bronze medal, marking his first Olympic podium finish. Four years later, at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Gillingham elevated his performance, capturing a silver medal in the same event, solidifying his status as one of the world's elite breaststrokers.

Dominance on the Global Stage and Record-Breaking Achievements

Beyond his Olympic successes, Nicholas Gillingham demonstrated comprehensive dominance across various international championships. He was crowned a World Champion in the short course format, clinching the gold medal in the 200 metres breaststroke at the 1993 FINA World Short Course Championships held in Palma de Mallorca. His European Championship accolades include two gold medals in the 200 metres breaststroke: first at the 1989 European Championships in Bonn, West Germany, and again at the 1991 European Championships in Athens, Greece, affirming his position as Europe's premier athlete in the event.

Further cementing his legacy, Gillingham also achieved Commonwealth Games glory, winning the gold medal in the 200 metres breaststroke while representing England at the 1990 Auckland Games. A remarkable highlight of his career was breaking the world record for the 200 metres breaststroke. On April 27, 1991, at the British Championships in Leeds, he set a new global benchmark with an astonishing time of 2:10.16, a record that stood for over two years and underscored his technical mastery and competitive drive.

Shared Era with a British Icon

Nicholas Gillingham's illustrious career broadly overlapped with that of fellow British breaststroker, Adrian Moorhouse. While Gillingham carved out his niche as a dominant force over the 200-metre distance, Moorhouse distinguished himself as the Olympic champion in the shorter 100 metres breaststroke. Their concurrent success showcased a golden era for British breaststroke swimming, with both athletes pushing the boundaries of the sport in their respective specialized events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nicholas Gillingham

What was Nicholas Gillingham's signature swimming event?
Nicholas Gillingham was best known for his exceptional performances and achievements in the 200 metres breaststroke.
How many Olympic medals did Nicholas Gillingham win?
He won two Olympic medals: a bronze in the 200m breaststroke at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and a silver in the 200m breaststroke at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
Did Nicholas Gillingham ever hold a world record?
Yes, Nicholas Gillingham set a world record in the 200 metres breaststroke on April 27, 1991, with a time of 2:10.16.
Which other notable British swimmer was active during Nicholas Gillingham's career?
His career coincided with that of Adrian Moorhouse, who was an Olympic champion in the 100 metres breaststroke, making them prominent figures in British swimming during the same period.