Oakes competed for Great Britain at the 1980 Summer Olympics held in Moscow, Soviet Union, where he won the bronze medal in the 400 metre hurdles. He represented England in the 400 metres hurdles event, at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Four years later he represented England, at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia and a third Games appearance followed when he represented England, at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is a member of the Haringey &amp; Southgate Athletic Club.