Richard Phelps, English pentathlete

Richard Phelps, born on April 19, 1961, is a distinguished British former modern pentathlete whose career spanned an impressive period in international sport. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Phelps became a prominent figure in a uniquely demanding athletic discipline, representing his nation on the grandest stages.

An Enduring Olympic Legacy

Phelps’s commitment and athletic prowess were truly remarkable, evidenced by his participation in no fewer than four Summer Olympic Games. He proudly competed for Great Britain at the Los Angeles 1984, Seoul 1988, Barcelona 1992, and Atlanta 1996 Olympics. Such longevity at the elite level of a multi-disciplinary sport is a testament to his sustained dedication, skill, and enduring physical and mental fortitude.

Seoul 1988: A Bronze Medal Achievement

The pinnacle of Richard Phelps’s Olympic journey arrived at the 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics. It was there that he, alongside his equally talented teammates Graham Brookhouse and Dominic Mahony, secured a prestigious bronze medal in the modern pentathlon team event. This collective achievement was a significant moment for British modern pentathlon, showcasing the synergy and individual excellence required to succeed against the world's best. The team event in modern pentathlon combines the scores of individual competitors, emphasizing the depth of talent within a national squad.

Understanding Modern Pentathlon

For those unfamiliar, modern pentathlon is an extraordinary and grueling sport, conceived by the founder of the modern Olympic Games, Baron Pierre de Coubertin. It is designed to simulate the skills of a 19th-century cavalry soldier behind enemy lines, testing a wide array of physical and mental attributes. The five diverse disciplines that comprise modern pentathlon are:

• Fencing: Épée duels, where each competitor fences every other competitor.
• Swimming: A 200-meter freestyle race.
• Equestrian Show Jumping: Riding an unfamiliar horse over a course of obstacles.
• Laser Run: A combined event of pistol shooting (using a laser pistol) and cross-country running over multiple laps.

This unique combination ensures that only the most versatile and resilient athletes can excel, making Phelps’s achievements all the more impressive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was Richard Phelps born?

Richard Phelps was born on April 19, 1961.

Which country did Richard Phelps represent?

He proudly represented Great Britain.

In which sport did Richard Phelps compete?

Richard Phelps was a modern pentathlete.

How many Olympic Games did Richard Phelps participate in?

He competed in four Summer Olympic Games: 1984, 1988, 1992, and 1996.

What medal did Richard Phelps win at the Olympics?

Richard Phelps won a bronze medal in the team event at the 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics.

Who were Richard Phelps's teammates for his Olympic medal win?

His teammates in the bronze medal-winning modern pentathlon team at the 1988 Seoul Games were Graham Brookhouse and Dominic Mahony.