United Kingdom
Login / Register
This Black History Month, we continue to celebrate athletes who are trailblazers, role models and inspire the next generation.
One athlete who embodies these qualities is Courtney Tulloch, a British artistic gymnast who has represented Team GB since 2012.
He made history as the first British gymnast to win a major championship medal on rings at the 2022 European Championships and went on to claim rings bronze at the 2022 World Championships in Liverpool.
Courtney is an eight-time European medallist and a back-to-back Commonwealth Games champion in both the team event and on rings, cementing his powerful legacy as one of Britain’s gymnastics greats.
From Inspiration to Excellence
Courtney’s love for gymnastics began with a spark of inspiration. “One moment I always think about was when I was 7, and I saw Great Britain gymnast Kanukai Jackson competing in East London on the vault.
“I remember thinking, wow, I want to be like that,” he explained. “I hadn’t seen many black gymnasts before, so to see him compete and to meet him was a big inspiration for me.”
That early inspiration became a lifelong passion, fuelled by enjoyment and determination.
“I got to where I am now by enjoying the journey.
“Gymnastics can have its ups and downs, but the most important thing is to remember to have fun along the way.”
Defining Career Highlights
Tulloch now has his eyes on a historic double ‘three-peat’ at Glasgow 2026, where he would be competing for Team England and supported by Kukri Sports.
Looking ahead to next year’s games, the Commonwealth Games holds a special place in Courtney’s heart.
“Team Gold in 2018 in particular was very special for me. Standing alongside such a great team that had known each other for so long.”
From European medals to world championship podiums, Courtney has continually pushed boundaries and raised the bar for British Gymnastics, and he’s not done yet.
“Competing at a third Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is definitely something I’m aiming for, especially with the opportunity to compete with my daughter cheering me on. That would be incredible.”
Standing Firm in Power and Pride
For the gymnast star, Black History Month is about celebrating the power of role models and representation in the community.
“I see Black History Month as a really important time to shine a light on inspiring stories and inspiring people.
“It really helps to have a connection to role models and to feel empowered to follow in their footsteps, just like I did when I met Kanukai all those years ago.”
A Message to the Next Generation
Courtney’s journey proves that success is as much about joy, passion and perseverance as it is about medals.
His inspiring story encourages young gymnasts to embrace their journey, stay inspired by those who came before them, and carve out their own path.
We are proud to celebrate athletes like Courtney Tulloch, whose achievements inspire the next generation and embody the spirit of Black History month – standing firm in power and pride.
