Nigel Amos

Intro

Nigel Amos (born 15 March 1994) is a Botswanan middle-distance runner who specializes in the 800 meters. He gained international prominence after winning a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics as a teenager, setting a world junior record with a time of 1:41.73, which remains one of the fastest 800 meters times in history.

Nigel Amos was born in Marobela, Botswana. From a young age, he showed great potential in athletics, particularly in middle-distance running. His talent was evident when he competed in school meets and national competitions, quickly rising through the ranks as one of the top prospects in Botswana.

Career

2012 London Olympics

Amos burst onto the international scene at the 2012 London Olympics. Despite being only 18 years old, he ran a sensational race in the 800 meters final, finishing second behind Kenya’s David Rudisha, who set a world record in that race. Amos’s time of 1:41.73 not only earned him a silver medal but also set a new world junior record.

World Championships

Amos has competed in several World Championships, with varying degrees of success. His best finish at the World Championships came in 2017 in London, where he narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fourth.

Commonwealth Games

At the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Amos won the gold medal in the 800 meters, defeating Olympic champion and world record holder David Rudisha in a thrilling race.

Injuries and Challenges

Amos’s career has been marred by injuries, which have impacted his performance and consistency. Despite these challenges, he has remained a competitive force in international middle-distance running.

Achievements

• Olympic Games: Silver medalist (800m, 2012)
• Commonwealth Games: Gold medalist (800m, 2014)
• World Junior Championships: Gold medalist (800m, 2012)

Personal Bests

• 800 meters: 1:41.73 (2012) – National Record, Former World Junior Record
• 400 meters: 45.54 (2014)

Post-Track Career and Other Activities

In addition to his athletic career, Amos has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly focusing on youth sports development in Botswana. He has spoken openly about his aspirations to inspire young athletes in his home country and to contribute to the growth of athletics in Botswana.