Eddie the Eagle A true Olympian
EDDIE ‘The Eagle’ Edwards flatly denies he made a mockery of his sport at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada.
For 22 years he has personified British sporting failure and has been recognised more for his steamed-up glasses and jutting jaw than for his exploits as an Olympic ski jumper.
Despite finishing last in two ski jump events, short-sighted plasterer Edwards became a global celebrity.
Now 46, he has spent the past two decades living off his reputation as a lovable loser.
Edwards said: “It takes a lot of guts to jump. If people criticise, I would give them a set of skis and say, ‘Do it yourself then’.
“I want to be recognised as exemplifying the Olympic spirit – one of the last true Olympians.”