In his address from the South Lawn of the White House on Wednesday, the newly installed US premier spoke of the special place the Games had in people’s psyches, adding: “They’re the sources of fleeting moments – instants, really – that have become permanently seared in our collective memories. 

"The humble victory of Jesse Owens. 

"The perfection of Nadia [Comaneci] and Mary Lou [Retton]. 

"Michael Johnson’s astonishment at his own feat. 

"Derek Redmond and Kerri Strug bravely making it through with a little help.”

Obama’s words clearly paid tribute to Redmond’s famous exploit in the 1992 Olympics. 

Having broken down with a torn hamstring after 150 metres of his 400 metres semi-final, the British record holder eventually hobbled across the finish line supported by his father Jim, who had rushed down from his seat to help.

Redmond said: “I didn’t have a clue about it until you told me.

"It’s quite impressive to get a mention from the President of the United States. 

"It’s pretty cool – an honour. 

"At least one of his speech-writers knows who I am!

“For some reason the whole 1992 episode is really big news in America. 

"I get 10 or 15 emails every week from people saying how inspiring they found it to watch my Dad and I in Barcelona, and more than half of them come from the States.

“The biggest thing about it was the fact that it was a dad who came to protect his son. 

"Every parent can relate to that, to being there for their child. 

"And there are a lot more parents out there than there are Olympians.”

Redmond, now 43 and living in Northampton, makes his main living as a motivational speaker, with his experiences of August 3, 1992 playing a big part in his corporate presentations.

His current sporting ambitions involve racing motorcycles in endurance events on circuits such as Cadwell Park and Silverstone.  

In its first year, Costello/Redmond Racing has challenged for the titles over three-hour and six-hour races in the National Endurance Championship. 

To read the full interview with Redmond click here.

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