Richard Whitehead (athlete)

Richard Whitehead, MBE (born 1976) is a British Paralympic athlete competing primarily in sprint events. He competes in the T61 classification, which is for athletes with a double amputation above the knee.

Whitehead was born without the lower parts of his legs. He began running competitively in 2004 and initially focused on marathon running. He holds the world record for double leg amputees in the full marathon.

He switched his focus to sprint events in the lead-up to the 2012 Summer Paralympics in London. At the London Games, he won gold in the 200m T42 event and silver in the 100m T42 event. He successfully defended his 200m title at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio.

Whitehead is also a motivational speaker and advocate for disability rights. He was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2013 New Year Honours for services to athletics. He has participated in various charitable endeavors, including running across Britain. His determination and achievements have made him a prominent figure in Paralympic sport.