Colin Jackson – World Record, Partner and Life Story
Colin Jackson is one of the most decorated British athletes in history, renowned for his world record in the 110m hurdles and a career that spanned nearly two decades. Beyond the track, he has become a familiar face on television and a prominent public figure. This article examines his athletic achievements and addresses the most common questions about his personal life, including his partner, family, and current activities.
Jackson’s name is synonymous with hurdling greatness. Born in Cardiff, Wales, he rose from a promising junior to a world-beater, setting a standard that defined the event for over a decade. His combination of explosive speed and flawless technique made him a dominant force at every major championship.
However, public curiosity about Jackson extends beyond his medals and records. Since he came out as gay in 2017, there has been significant interest in his relationship status, family life, and whether he has children. This article provides a clear, fact-based overview of both his professional legacy and personal journey.
Was Colin Jackson Married and Who Is His Partner?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions about the athlete. According to all available biographical records, Colin Jackson has never been married. He has spoken openly about his relationships, but no marriage has been recorded.
Who is Colin Jackson’s partner?
Colin Jackson is in a relationship with Mark Feehily, who is best known as a singer from the Irish pop band Westlife. The relationship has been confirmed by both parties and has attracted media attention since it became public.
Multiple credible sources, including interviews and public social media posts, confirm that Colin Jackson and Mark Feehily are partners. This is a matter of public record, though the couple keeps their private life relatively low-key.
Is Colin Jackson married to Mark Feehily?
No, Colin Jackson is not married to Mark Feehily. Public records and statements indicate that the two are in a long-term relationship, but they have not taken any formal steps toward marriage. There is no official confirmation of an engagement or wedding plans.
Does Colin Jackson have children or a daughter?
There is no credible evidence that Colin Jackson has any biological children or a daughter. This question appears to stem from confusion online. Jackson has spoken warmly about godchildren and close family connections, but he has not publicly stated that he is a parent. Reports regarding a daughter remain unsubstantiated and likely originate from misinterpretations of his relationships with younger relatives.
The search for a daughter or children associated with Colin Jackson consistently returns no verified facts. In the absence of any public statement or reliable documentation, the answer is that he does not have any known children.
What Olympic Medal Did Colin Jackson Win and What Is His World Record?
Jackson’s Olympic career is a story of near-misses and incredible consistency. He won a silver medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics in the 110m hurdles, finishing behind the legendary Roger Kingdom. He also competed in the 1992 Barcelona Games (finishing 4th) and the 1996 Atlanta Games (finishing 5th).
What is Colin Jackson’s world record?
Jackson set the most famous mark of his career at the 1993 World Championships in Stuttgart. He ran the 110m hurdles in 12.91 seconds, a world record that stood for nearly 13 years until it was broken by Liu Xiang in 2006. He also held the world record in the 60m hurdles, which stood for almost 27 years.
How tall is Colin Jackson?
Colin Jackson stands at 1.82 meters tall, which is approximately 6 feet 0 inches. His height was considered ideal for a hurdler, providing a blend of power and stride efficiency.
What Is Colin Jackson’s Background and Career?
Colin Ray Jackson was born on 18 February 1967 in Cardiff, Wales. He trained with Brecon Athletics Club and quickly established himself as a special talent. His career is defined by a remarkable run of dominance across the world’s biggest stages.
Did Colin Jackson come out as gay?
Yes, Colin Jackson publicly came out as gay in 2017. He did so in a Swedish television clip promoting the documentary series Rainbow Heroes. He later explained that he had avoided the topic earlier in his career because he did not want his sexuality to be sensationalised. He also shared that he had come out to his parents in 2006 after a difficult period involving a former partner who sold a story to the press.
What is Colin Jackson doing now?
Since retiring from elite athletics in 2003, Jackson has built a successful second career. He works as a sports commentator and pundit, primarily for the BBC. He has also appeared on entertainment programmes such as Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing on Ice, and Celebrity MasterChef. He remains a respected figure in the sport and a motivational speaker.
Colin Jackson remained undefeated at the European Championships for a period spanning 12 years. This level of continental dominance is extremely rare and underscores his consistency at the highest level.
Timeline: Key Milestones in Colin Jackson’s Life and Career
The following timeline charts the major events in Jackson’s life, from his birth to his most recent public milestones.
- : Born in Cardiff, Wales.
- : Wins his first major title at the Commonwealth Games (gold).
- : Wins Olympic silver medal in the 110m hurdles at the Seoul Games.
- : Sets the world record of 12.91 seconds at the World Championships in Stuttgart.
- : Retires from professional athletics after a long and decorated career. Awarded CBE for services to athletics.
- : Publicly comes out as gay in a Swedish television documentary.
- : Confirmed relationship with Mark Feehily of Westlife begins and becomes public knowledge.
Clarifying What Is Known and What Remains Unclear
There is a significant amount of reliable information about Colin Jackson, but some areas remain subject to rumor or misunderstanding. The table below separates established facts from information that is uncertain or unverified.
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Colin Jackson has never been married. | Whether he will marry Mark Feehily in the future. |
| Colin Jackson’s partner is Mark Feehily. | The exact date their relationship began. |
| He has no biological children or a daughter. | Specific details about his family relationships and godchildren. |
| He won Olympic silver in 1988, not gold. | No uncertainty; this is a verified fact. |
| He held the 110m hurdles world record from 1993 to 2006. |
