Charlie Samuels 1863 to 1912

Born Sambo Combo at Jimbour Station, Dalby Queensland. He is ranked as one of Australia’s greatest sportsmen.

In 1886, aged 23 he ran 136 yards (124.5 metres) in 13.2 seconds, the fastest time recorded in Australian professional athletics. He is credited with the times of 300 yards (274.5 metres) in 30 seconds flat and 100 yards (91.5 metres) in 9.1 seconds, and was considered by some to be the sprint champion of the world.

After internment in Callan Park asylum, he was removed to Barambah where he died at the age of 49 years. He is buried in company with other great Cherbourg sportsmen Jerry Jerome and Eddie Gilbert.

Comments

  1. Dr Ray Kerkhove Reply
    In 1901 Charlie Samuels posed on the apex of the triumphal arch welcoming the Duke of Edinburgh (later George V) to Brisbane. The arch featured some 70 Indigenous individuals from diverse communities and Reserves in Queensland wearing traditional paint and weaponry. The Duke and Duchess considered the display the highlight of their trip and met the runner.
  2. Denis Brennan Reply
    Charlie Samuels record should be recorded in the Queensland Sports Museum the public should be told of our great Queensland Sporting Athletes

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