Jobaaj Stories
Cliff Young: The Humble Potato Farmer Who Conquered Australia
In 1983, 61-year-old potato farmer Cliff Young etched his name into Australian history. Tonight's Australian Story revisits the extraordinary tale of his improbable victory in the inaugural Sydney to Melbourne ultramarathon. Few believed the unassuming Young, who famously shuffled rather than ran, had a chance, yet he not only finished but shattered the existing record.
An Unlikely Hero
Young's win transcended sport, captivating the nation with its raw determination and against-all-odds triumph. Fellow competitor John Connellan remarked, “Everyone who was alive at that time remembers Cliff as much as they remember the man landing on the moon.” His unique running style and humble demeanor resonated deeply, making him an instant national icon.
A Lifetime in the Making
Australian Story reveals that Young's success wasn't a fluke; it was the culmination of a life spent running through the Otway Ranges in gumboots. His dedication, though initially seen as quirky, ultimately propelled him to greatness. Journalist and friend Neil Kearney describes him as “a simple man… but not a simpleton.”
Legacy of Inspiration
Despite his short-lived marriage and subsequent death in 2003, Young's legacy endures. His story continues to inspire, reminding us that ordinary individuals are capable of extraordinary feats. As his former trainer Mike Tonkin puts it, “This is just a real ordinary bloke… but real ordinary blokes are capable of extraordinary things.” Don't miss tonight's Australian Story at 8pm on ABC TV and ABC iview.
