We were absolutely thrilled when the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List revealed that former Isleworth & Syon student Mo Farah had been awarded a knighthood for services to athletics.
After the award, Mo said:
“I am so happy to be awarded this incredible honour from the country that has been my home since I moved here at the age of eight. Looking back at the boy who arrived here from Somalia, not speaking any English, I could never have imagined where I would be today – it is a dream come true.”
Mo is often referred to as the country’s greatest-ever long-distance runner. Following his double Olympic gold medal (5,000m and 10,000m) in London 2012, he repeated the success last summer in Rio, winning both distances by quite a margin. Mo has picked up countless other medals during his athletics career, including multiple World and European Championship honours.
Mo attended Isleworth & Syon School for his Sixth Form years, moving from Feltham Community College in 1999 along with his then-coach, Alan Watkinson, who was also a P.E. teacher. During his time at the school, Mo’s pedigree and prowess for cross-country sport was apparent, and everyone in school was convinced that he would be a success. It is a testament to Mo’s hard work, drive and commitment that he has reached the pinnacle of his sport. We would all like to wish Mo the warmest of congratulations as he becomes Sir Mo Farah.
