At 91 years old, Peter Quinney continues to defy expectations in the world of competitive trampolining, proving that age is no barrier to excellence in sport. The Melksham-based athlete, who first discovered his passion for the discipline during National Service in the Royal Air Force, remains an active competitor and coach decades after his initial breakthrough.
Quinney’s journey in trampolining began in 1955, and he quickly rose to prominence by capturing the British Championship title in 1960 – a milestone that came just three years after the event’s inception. His victory that year marked the start of a lifelong dedication to the sport, one that has seen him represent Great Britain internationally and contribute to the growth of trampolining across multiple continents.
More than six decades after his first national title, Quinney returned to the winner’s podium in recent competitions, securing gold in his age category at an event held in Portsmouth. His continued participation highlights not only personal longevity but too the enduring appeal of trampolining as a discipline accessible across generations.
Beyond competing, Quinney has dedicated significant time to coaching, currently leading a trampoline club in Salisbury where he mentors athletes of all ages. He describes the club environment as “like a little family,” emphasizing the communal joy and shared passion that have sustained his involvement for over 70 years.
His early experiences in the RAF played a pivotal role in shaping his athletic career. While serving as a physical training instructor, Quinney introduced trampolining to the RAF gymnastics display team, with whom he performed at prestigious venues including Madison Square Garden in New York and the Olympic Stadium in Canada. These international appearances helped raise the profile of the sport during its formative years in Britain.
Quinney’s influence extended beyond performance into administration and coaching. Following his individual success, he represented Great Britain in the nation’s first international trampoline competition against Germany in 1961. A few years later, he transitioned into a coaching role for the women’s national team, further cementing his status as a pioneer in British trampolining.
He was also present at a historic moment for the sport when the inaugural World Championships were held at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 1964 – an event that helped establish trampolining on the global competitive stage. His presence at such milestones underscores his deep-rooted connection to the evolution of the discipline.
Now a great-grandfather, Quinney maintains a lighthearted outlook on his athletic pursuits, joking that he plans to celebrate his 100th birthday by performing “100 backflips” – a remark that reflects both his humor and enduring enthusiasm for the sport he loves.
His story stands as a testament to the power of lifelong engagement in physical activity, demonstrating how sports like trampolining can foster not only physical vitality but also community, purpose, and joy well into advanced age. For Quinney, the trampoline remains more than a piece of equipment – it is a lifelong companion in a journey that continues to unfold.
Keep reading