Richard Thompson, an accomplished athlete from Trinidad and Tobago, has made significant strides in his career. Known by the nickname "Torpedo," Thompson began his journey in athletics at the age of eight. He discovered his potential speed while playing football, which led him to focus on athletics.

| Season | Event | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Men's 4 x 100m Relay | 12 |
| 2016 | Men's 4 x 100m Relay | 7 |
| 2016 | Men's 100m | 40 |
| 2012 | Men's 4 x 100m Relay | S Silver |
| 2012 | Men's 100m | 6 |
| 2008 | Men's 4 x 100m Relay | G Gold |
| 2008 | Men's 100m | S Silver |
Thompson's career has seen its share of injuries. A hip injury sidelined him in 2017, leading to surgery and a recovery break in 2018. He returned to competition in 2020. Earlier, he had been troubled by a left knee injury in April 2015, which caused him to end his season early after competing in the semifinal of the National Open Championships.
In 2009, Thompson suffered injuries to his head, neck, and left knee following a car accident in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Despite missing the indoor season, he recovered in time for the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, Germany.
Thompson's achievements have earned him numerous accolades. In 2008, he was named First Citizens Sports Foundation Sportsman of the Year and Sportsman of the Year by the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC). He also received several awards from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and other organisations.
Additionally, Thompson was awarded the Chaconia Medal (Gold) in Trinidad and Tobago for his two silver medals at the 2008 Olympic Games. His contributions to athletics have been widely recognised both locally and internationally.
Thompson resides in Bradenton, Florida, USA, with his wife Monique Cabral and their sons Rhys and Ryan. He speaks English fluently and values education highly, as evidenced by his return to complete his degree.
Thompson looks up to Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt and Trinidad and Tobago sprinter Ato Boldon as his idols. His sporting philosophy is encapsulated in his motto: "More can be less, and less can be more."
Boldon has been a significant influence on Thompson. They attended the same primary school, Newtown RC School. When Thompson was ten years old, Boldon visited his class and symbolically passed on an imaginary crown to him as the fastest boy in school.
Looking ahead, Thompson aims to continue contributing to athletics while also focusing on educational initiatives. His journey serves as an inspiration for young athletes in Trinidad and Tobago, demonstrating that success on the track can go hand-in-hand with academic achievements.
Thompson's story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the track. His achievements highlight the importance of balancing sports with education, setting a positive example for future generations.
Richard Thompson, an accomplished athlete from Trinidad and Tobago, has made significant strides in his career. Known by the nickname "Torpedo," Thompson began his journey in athletics at the age of eight. He discovered his potential speed while playing football, which led him to focus on athletics.