John Steffensen
Australia's new athletics hero.
Profile
One of Australia’s most talented track stars, John Steffensen represents an exciting new era in Australian athletics.
Steffensen’s gold medal winning run at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games unveiled him as Australia’s new athletics hero.
The effervescent sprinter cruised to victory in the Men’s 400m and spearheaded the 4x400m team to finish the Commonwealth Games with two gold medals.
A former long jumper, Steffensen was also a state champion boxer before re-focusing on track and what is seen as the most demanding sprint distances – the 400m.
From his humble beginnings in Little Athletics at age seven, Steffensen has made a number of personal sacrifices and shown incredible determination to reach the upper echelons of his sport.
Current work
In 2013, John joined the team of Nine’s Wide World of Sports, who recognised his talent for unique interviews and insightful sports commentary. Additionally, John is a very committed ambassador to children’s health and well-being, with a firm belief in inspiring and surprising.
Previous experience
Olympics: In 2002, Steffensen moved from Perth to Sydney to train in the Michael Khmel sprint squad. His move was rewarded when he was selected in the Australian team to compete at the 2003 World Championships. After a terrific domestic season in 2004, Steffensen cemented his place in the national side and secured a place in the Athens Olympic team. He ran the first leg of the 4x400m Men’s relay and steered Australia to the silver medal – the first medal Australia had won in the event since the 1956 Olympics.
Commonwealth: Following his Olympic success, Steffensen left Australia to train under track guru John Smith in California. His self-funded relocation paid dividends when he returned home to capture his first Australian Championship in 2006. He continued his outstanding form into the Commonwealth Games where he became the people’s champion.
Wins: John has competed in three Olympic Games (2004, 2008 and 2012), in the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, and in numerous world and Australian championship events. Interestingly, off the track, John has completed 32 amateur fights in boxing.
