Eric Shirley ran the 3,000 metres steeplechase

Steeplechase (athletics)

The steeplechase is an obstacle race in athletics, which derives its name from the steeplechase in horse racing.-Rules:The length of the race is usually 3000 m; junior events are 2000 m, as women's events formerly were. The circuit has four ordinary barriers and one water jump. Over 3000 m, each...

 final at the 1956 Summer Olympics

1956 Summer Olympics

The 1956 Melbourne Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XVI Olympiad, were an international multi-sport event which was held in Melbourne, Australia, in 1956, with the exception of the equestrian events, which could not be held in Australia due to quarantine regulations...

 in Melbourne, Australia for Great Britain with team mates Chris Brasher

Chris Brasher

Christopher William "Chris" Brasher CBE was a British athlete, sports journalist and co-founder of the London Marathon.-History:...

 and John Disley

John Disley

John Ivor Disley is a former Welsh athlete who competed mainly in the 3000 metres steeple chase. He was born in Corris, a village in Gwynedd...

; coming in 8th with a time of 8.57. He also competed in the 1960 Olympics in Rome Italy.

He was a member of Finchley Harriers (founded 1877). In 1966, this club was amalgamated into Hillingdon Athletic Club, of which he is still a member.