Those 'stupid o'clock' starts were all worth it when the medals came

Terry Church takes a look at the career of Black Country Olympic swimmer, Cradley's Adam Ruckwood

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FOR close on two hours I listened enthralled as the physically imposing swimming star, Adam Ruckwood, modestly told me of his life, so far, in swimming.

For goodness sake, this man competed in three Olympic Games and three Commonwealth Games, not to mention European and World Championships. Little wonder that he never found time to have a proper job.

To revert to the start line, Adam first saw the light of day on Friday 13 September 1974. His paternal grandmother was mega-superstitious and implored Adam's mom, Angela, to “keep your legs crossed until the 14th”

Home was Lyde Green Road, Cradley and education was at Colley Lane Primary School. A family friend, Doreen Young, was probably the first person to notice his swimming potential when she suggested to Adam's mom that eight-years-old Adam attend a trial at Haden Hill Swimming Club.

Incidentally as part of the build up to the 2012 London Olympics Adam was invited back to the school to talk to the children and was delighted that amongst the staff was Janet Ingram, who had been one of his teachers.

In addition to his swimming talent his physique made him an obvious choice to play basketball, and be requisitioned as the school goalkeeper when he moved to Cradley High School.