Eddie The Eagle Edwards

Great Britain’s First Olympic Ski Jumper

Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards is Great Britain’s first Olympic Ski Jumper.

Ranked 55th in the world, this qualified Eddie as GB’s only candidate for the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympic Games.

With the UK public backing the plasterer from Gloucester, Eddie hit the slopes pursued by the international press & media.

Eddie competed in the 70m and 90m events during the Games but unfortunately came last in both.

Although he didn’t win an Olympic Ski Jumping medal, he did win a place in the hearts of spectators around the globe. Ultimately, the public loved Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards not only because of his lack of success but also, more importantly, because of his determination and ‘have a go’ attitude.

During the Winter Games closing ceremony, the Organising Committee President, Frank King, singled out Eddie: “At these Games, some competitors have won gold, some have broken records, and some of you have even soared like an eagle.”

Movies and TV Shows:

After appearing at the Winter Games, Eddie instantly became a global celebrity.

Since 1988, Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards has continued to appear in advertising campaigns, make personal appearances, and deliver motivational and after-dinner speeches worldwide.

A TV regular, Eddie competed on BBC1’s Let’s Dance and won BBC’s Winter Wipeout and ITV’s Splash.

Furthermore, Eddie was the jump coach on Channel 4’s The Jump.

A major movie based on the story of Michael Edwards, Eddie the Eagle, was released worldwide. The film Eddie The Eagle, starred Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman.