Sporting icons : Ron Clarke- The Aussie World record breaker of long distance running - Career HLs , video

 


Ronald William Clarke was born on February 21, 1937, in Melbourne, Australia. He was one of the greatest long-distance runners of his era, known for his exceptional endurance, smooth running style, and ability to break world records. Clarke set multiple world records in middle and long-distance running during the 1960s, leaving an indelible mark on athletics.

Style of Play

Clarke was renowned for his relentless pace and consistency, often setting a strong tempo in races. He was a front-runner who dominated track events with his ability to maintain high speeds over long distances, making him a record-breaking athlete in various events ranging from 3,000 meters to 10,000 meters.

Career Highlights

  • Broke 17 World Records in distances ranging from 2 miles to 20 kilometers.
  • First man to run 10,000 meters under 28 minutes (27:39.4 in 1965).
  • Held world records in multiple long-distance events simultaneously, including the 5,000m, 10,000m, and 2-mile races.
  • 1965 European Tour: Broke 12 world records in just six weeks, an unprecedented feat.
  • Australian Championships: Won multiple national titles across long-distance events.

Olympics

  • 1964 Tokyo Olympics – Won bronze in the 10,000 meters, despite being a favorite for gold. Clarke was unable to secure an Olympic title, but his performance remained highly respected.
  • 1956 Melbourne Olympics – Lit the Olympic flame during the opening ceremony at the age of 19, symbolizing his future prominence in athletics.

World Events

  • Competed in multiple international meets, dominating the European and Commonwealth circuits.
  • Commonwealth Games (1962, 1966) – Won silver medals in both 10,000m races.
  • His performances and records were instrumental in raising global standards in long-distance running.

Legacy

Ron Clarke is regarded as one of the greatest distance runners in history, despite never winning an Olympic gold medal. His world records and achievements helped shape modern distance running. He later transitioned into politics, serving as the mayor of Gold Coast, Australia. Clarke’s influence extended beyond the track, inspiring generations of athletes with his dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship. His contribution to athletics was recognized globally, making him an enduring figure in the world of sports.


Watch a moment of Ron Clarke World record breaking feat  in the below video 

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