GB Commonwealth gold medallist Mike McFarlane in critical condition

31 May 2023 , 18:26

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Mike McFarlane celebrates 100m victory in 1979 (Image: Getty Images)

Mike McFarlane, a former sprinter who helped Great Britain to Olympic silver in the 4×100 metres relay at Seoul 1988, is in a critical condition in hospital, his family have announced.

A statement from his family on social media on Thursday added: "Any further updates will be officially released from us as a family. We would like to express our gratitude for all the prayers, well wishes and support shown during this difficult time, we know how much Mike means to everyone near and far and ask that you respect our privacy as we spend time with him.

Alongside Elliot Bunney, John Regis and Linford Christie, McFarlane led Britain to the runners-up spot in South Korea, while he had individual success with Commonwealth gold in the 200m at Brisbane in 1982.

Once he had hung up his running spikes, McFarlane enjoyed a successful coaching career, including the 2012 women’s sprint relay team of England Athletics.

Mike McFarlane (centre) with Scottish duo Cameron Sharp and Allan Wells after taking gold in the 200m in 1982

McFarlane, who also won gold in the 60m at the 1985 European Indoor Championships and relay bronze in the European Championships the following year, coached several female sprinters to success including Desiree Henry, Jodie Williams and Finette Agyapong.

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False reports had spread earlier on Thursday wrongly claiming McFarlane had passed away, before his family clarified his current condition.

Press Association