Jamie Oldham produced a career best on the big stage at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, smashing the Jersey 100m record in the heats with a time of 10.41 seconds. The 20-year-old’s run bettered the island’s previous mark of 10.48, set last year by team-mate Steven Mackay.
Quick rise and a proud moment
Oldham finished second in his heat behind Ghana’s Benjamin Azamati, who won in 10.00 seconds. Although the new national record and personal best were cause for celebration, the time did not secure a place in the semi-finals.
“I was coming in a bit dodgy, I'd been a bit sick, so I wasn't expecting too much ... I shot out of the blocks ... I just need to hold form,”
Oldham told BBC Jersey he had not expected much given recent illness, making the performance all the more satisfying. He described an excellent start from the blocks and a determination to hold his form once he realised he had gained an early advantage on the outside runner.
What the heat looked like
The following table summarises the key details from the heat that produced the new Jersey record.
| Position | Athlete | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Benjamin Azamati (Ghana) | 10.00 | Heat winner |
| 2 | Jamie Oldham (Jersey) | 10.41 | New Jersey record; personal best |
Local and sporting significance
For a 20-year-old to set a national record at a major multi-sport event is notable. Records like this help raise the profile of athletics on the islands and can inspire younger athletes following the Games. While Oldham’s time did not move him into the semi-finals, the personal improvement is the immediate headline — and a platform to build on for future competitions.
- Age: 20
- New Jersey record: 10.41 seconds
- Previous record: 10.48 seconds (Steven Mackay)
- Heat winner: Benjamin Azamati (10.00 seconds)
Oldham’s performance will be followed closely by supporters back home. A national record at this early stage of his career suggests potential for further improvement, provided he remains fit and can build on the momentum from this Games.
